RICS Level 2 Survey in Kilsby

Our RICS Level 2 surveys provide a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition, examining all accessible areas from roof space to foundations. Our surveyor will evaluate the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, while also checking for signs of damp, rot, or insect damage that can compromise a property's integrity. In Kilsby, where we see a significant proportion of older properties built from 19th-century red brick and Northamptonshire rubble stone, our team pays particular attention to the condition of original brickwork, stonework, and traditional construction methods that may differ from modern building standards. We have extensive experience identifying the specific defects that affect these traditional construction types, including mortar deterioration, salt efflorescence, and issues arising from solid wall construction.

The survey includes a thorough inspection of the roof, including any visible rafters, battens, and felt, as well as an examination of chimney stacks, flashings, and valleys where leaks commonly occur. Given that Kilsby contains several thatched properties, our surveyors are experienced in assessing the specific maintenance requirements and potential issues associated with traditional thatched roofing, which requires specialist knowledge and ongoing upkeep. We also inspect the property's plumbing, electrical systems, and heating equipment, providing advice on any areas that may require attention from qualified specialists. Our report will clearly flag any non-visual issues that we are unable to fully assess without opening up the property or using specialist equipment.

External walls are carefully examined for signs of cracking, movement, or deterioration that could indicate subsidence or structural issues. Our reports highlight any defects found during the inspection, categorising them by severity and providing clear guidance on what repairs or maintenance may be necessary both now and in the future. For properties within the Kilsby Conservation Area, which encompasses Chapel Street, Main Road, Manor Road, and Essen Lane, we provide additional context regarding how identified defects might interact with conservation requirements and any planning considerations that may affect future alterations or repairs. This is particularly important given that Kilsby's Conservation Area was designated in 2018 and includes 46 listed buildings within the parish.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical installations
• Fire safety and escape routes
• External areas and boundaries

Kilsby presents a diverse range of property types that our surveyors regularly inspect. The village has evolved over more than a thousand years, with a historic core containing numerous properties built from 19th-century red brick, which is the predominant material for several buildings within the Conservation Area, including The George, The Red Lion, and Laurelcroft on Main Street. These older properties often feature solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls, which can affect thermal performance and moisture resistance. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing the condition of traditional brickwork and identifying issues such as rising damp, salt efflorescence, and mortar deterioration that commonly affect properties of this age. We also pay attention to the Northamptonshire rubble stone construction found in some of the village's oldest buildings, which presents its own set of considerations including stone erosion and repointing requirements.

Outside the Conservation Area, most residential properties were built from the 1960s onwards, using modern brick construction with tiled roofs. These post-war properties generally represent more straightforward surveying propositions, though issues such as inadequate insulation, original windows reaching the end of their lifespan, and drainage problems can still arise. The village has also seen significant new development in recent years, with 73 additional properties built since 2011, including 11 units on the former Lasalign Site (now Emery Row and Close) and 48 units at Cildes Croft. Newer properties may still benefit from a Level 2 survey to identify any construction defects that have emerged since completion. Even recently built homes can have hidden issues that only a professional survey will uncover.

The proposed development of up to 63 new homes at land north of Rugby Road, approved in December 2024, will further expand Kilsby's housing stock. For buyers considering properties on newer developments, our surveys can identify any snagging issues or defects that may be present despite the property being relatively new. We also inspect properties on the nearby Houlton Estate, which, while not strictly within Kilsby, is frequently included in searches for the area and represents another segment of the local housing market that benefits from professional survey coverage. Part of the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT) lies within the parish at its northern edge, making Kilsby a popular commuter location for those working in logistics and distribution.

• Historic red brick properties (pre-1919)
• Modern brick and tile homes (1960s+)
• Conservation Area properties
• Thatched properties
• New build developments
• Listed buildings