RICS Level 2 Survey in Hurn

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, focusing on issues that affect value and safety. Our inspectors examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, roofs, and foundations. In Hurn, where many properties sit near the River Stour and River Avon floodplains, we pay particular attention to signs of damp, water damage, and any historical flooding that may have affected the building. We've surveyed numerous properties along Christchurch Road and the Matchams Lane area where flood risk is a genuine consideration for buyers.

The survey includes assessment of all major installations such as plumbing, electrical systems, heating, and insulation. Our chartered surveyors check for visible defects in windows, doors, and internal finishes. We examine the condition of any extensions, conversions, or alterations that may have been made to the property, which is particularly relevant in Hurn where period properties may have been modified over the years. Many older homes in the village centre feature traditional construction methods using lime mortar pointing, single-glazed windows, and period joinery that require specific maintenance approaches.

We also assess the external environment, including boundaries, access points, and any shared areas. For properties in the Tall Trees Park or Fillybrook Fields developments, we evaluate the condition of park homes and any communal facilities. Tall Trees Park is an over 45s gated development featuring an outdoor heated swimming pool, fishing lake, and picnic area, while Fillybrook Fields offers 11 luxury park homes built to residential British standard BS3632 with a 10-year structural warranty. Our reports include clear ratings for each area surveyed, making it easy to prioritise any necessary repairs or further investigations.

Our surveyors specifically assess flood risk for properties in Hurn given the area's location between the River Stour and River Avon. We check for signs of previous flood damage, water staining on internal walls, damp odours, and examine external ground levels and drainage systems. Dorset has a medium risk of flooding from high water tables and overflowing rivers, and we've seen properties along Hurn Road and Matchams Lane affected during periods of heavy rainfall. This assessment is included as standard in every Level 2 survey we conduct in the Hurn area.

• Structural walls, floors, and ceilings
• Roof condition and insulation
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Extensions and alterations
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Flood risk assessment

Your RICS Level 2 Survey report uses a simple traffic light system to rate each area of the property. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights areas requiring some repair or maintenance, and red flags serious defects that need immediate professional attention. This clear format helps you quickly identify which issues require the most urgent attention. Each section of the property receives its own rating, giving you a comprehensive view of the overall condition.

For Hurn properties, particularly older homes in the village centre or along Christchurch Road, our reports often note the condition of traditional construction features such as lime mortar pointing, single-glazed windows, and period joinery. We provide practical advice on maintaining these features while addressing any defects. Many period properties in Hurn were built using clay bricks and stone walls that require specific maintenance approaches different from modern construction.

For park home purchases at Tall Trees Park or Fillybrook Fields, we assess the unique construction of these buildings and their foundations. Park homes are built to different standards than traditional brick houses, and our surveyors understand the specific issues that can affect them. We check the condition of the chassis, exterior cladding, insulation, and any tie-down systems. Fillybrook Fields homes are built to BS3632 residential standard with a 10-year structural warranty, but we still recommend a survey to identify any cosmetic or installation issues.

Each report includes a market valuation section, giving you an independent assessment of the property's worth. This is particularly valuable in the Hurn area where property prices vary significantly between traditional houses and park homes. Hurn Road properties have seen prices fluctuate, with a 44% increase last year but an 11% drop from the 2023 peak of £669,333. If our survey identifies significant defects, we can advise on likely remediation costs, helping you negotiate with sellers or budget for necessary works.