RICS Level 2 Survey in Herriard

A RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition without going to the extremes of a full building survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe and accessible, the basement or crawl spaces, and the exterior walls. We assess the condition of key structural elements including foundations, walls, floors, roofs, and chimneys, as well as the condition of joinery, finishes, and fittings throughout the property.

The survey includes a thorough evaluation of the property's services such as plumbing, heating, and electrical installations, though we always recommend that you obtain specialist certificates for these systems from qualified tradespeople. Our inspection covers both the interior and exterior of the building, identifying any visible defects, potential problems, or areas that require further investigation. We also assess the general condition of any outbuildings, garages, or boundaries that form part of the property.

In Herriard, where we see a mix of older period properties alongside more modern developments, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in properties of various ages. These include roof condition, particularly on older properties where tiles or flashing may have deteriorated, damp penetration which can be problematic in properties with solid walls rather than cavity construction, and the condition of timber elements which may be affected by rot or insect infestation.

Our RICS Level 2 Survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Elements rated red require urgent attention, amber indicates issues that should be monitored or repaired, while green denotes satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach helps you quickly identify the most serious concerns and prioritise any necessary remediation work.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and coverings
• Damp proofing and dampness
• Windows and doors
• Chimneys and flues
• Plumbing and water supply
• Electrical installations (visual)
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Herriard village and the surrounding RG25 postcode area feature a diverse range of property types that each present unique considerations for surveyors. The village has seen various periods of development, with evidence of older agricultural buildings converted into residential properties alongside more traditional housing. Detached properties in areas like Bagmore Lane and Elderfield Green command premium prices, with recent sales exceeding £800,000, reflecting the desirable rural character of the area.

The construction materials used in Herriard reflect the local geology and building traditions of Hampshire. Properties in this area typically feature traditional brickwork, with some older properties using local stone or flint construction typical of the region. Many homes have solid walls rather than modern cavity wall construction, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration and may require specific remediation approaches. The clay soils underlying much of Hampshire can also present shrink-swell risks, particularly for properties with shallow foundations, making structural assessment particularly important.

Semi-detached and terraced properties in Herriard offer more accessible entry points to the village housing market, with recent sales ranging from £323,000 to £525,000. These properties often share boundary walls with neighbours, which can introduce specific issues such as shared drainage, boundary disputes, or problems originating from adjacent properties. Our surveyors carefully examine these shared elements and flag any concerns that may affect your use and enjoyment of the property.

The age of housing stock in Herriard varies considerably, from historic cottages that may have been originally constructed in the 18th or 19th century through to modern developments from the late 20th and early 21st century. Older properties often require more careful assessment, with particular attention to the condition of original features, any historic alterations or extensions, and the presence of traditional construction methods that may differ significantly from modern building standards.