RICS Level 2 Survey in Kirklevington

A RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's main elements, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. Our inspectors examine the condition of the structure, identify any signs of damp, rot, or subsidence, and assess the state of the building's insulation and ventilation. The report uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate where defects are found, ranging from urgent issues requiring immediate attention to minor cosmetic matters.

For Kirklevington properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to the local building materials and construction methods used in the area. Many properties here feature traditional brick construction dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, which may show signs of aging or previous repairs. We also check for issues common in newer developments, such as those at the Hall Wood Meadows and Highgrove developments, where fresh construction may still be settling.

The inspection covers all accessible areas of the property, both internally and externally. We will lift trap doors where safe to do so, examine loft spaces where accessible, and check the condition of all visible pipework and wiring. Our surveyors take photographs of any defects found, creating a visual record that makes it easy to understand the issues identified in your report.

Each RICS Level 2 report includes clear condition ratings for each element inspected, using a traffic light system. Red ratings indicate serious issues requiring urgent attention, amber flags defects that should be repaired soon, and green denotes satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach helps you prioritises repair work and provides valuable ammunition for price negotiations with the seller.

• Roof and chimney condition
• Walls, foundations and structural integrity
• Damp and rot detection
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Energy performance assessment

Kirklevington offers a diverse range of properties, from historic cottages and farm buildings to contemporary family homes. The village contains several listed buildings, including the Grade II* Church of St Martin, Kirklevington Hall, and various farmhouses and cottages along Forest Lane and Thirsk Road. Properties of this age often require more careful inspection, as traditional building methods and materials can present unique challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify.

The surrounding area has seen significant new development in recent years, with major projects including the Hall Wood Meadows development by Duchy Homes featuring 3, 4 and 5-bedroom homes, and the Highgrove development offering luxury 5-bedroom detached properties. The Cornfields development by Banks Homes on Green Lane also provides a range of family homes. While these newer properties generally require less maintenance, our surveyors check for common new-build issues such as inadequate sealing, insufficient insulation, and any defects that may not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye.

Surface water flooding has been a concern for some residents in Kirklevington, particularly in relation to new developments built on land with natural springs. Our surveyors will note any visible signs of water damage or dampness and recommend further investigation if necessary. The Environment Agency flood risk maps provide additional information on specific property risks. We pay particular attention to drainage around the property and any evidence of past flooding that might not be immediately obvious.

Many properties in Kirklevington were built using traditional brick construction that was common in the 17th and 18th centuries. While these buildings have stood the test of time, they may have underlying issues such as previous structural repairs, movement cracks, or deterioration in mortar pointing. Our surveyors know how to identify these age-related issues and assess whether they represent genuine concerns or simply reflect the character of an older property.

The local geology can also play a role in property condition. Properties built on clay soils may be susceptible to subsidence during dry periods, as the ground shrinks and expands with moisture levels. Our inspectors look for signs of movement such as cracking to walls, doors that stick, or uneven floors, and will recommend a structural engineer's report if we have any concerns about the building's stability.

Once your RICS Level 2 survey is complete, you'll receive a detailed report that clearly explains the condition of the property. The report is designed to be easy to understand, even if you have no prior experience with property surveys. Each section of the property is rated using our traffic light system, with clear explanations of any issues found and their potential implications.

The report includes practical advice on repairs and maintenance, helping you understand what work might be needed now and what might be required in the future. This information is invaluable for budgeting purposes and can be used to negotiate with the seller if significant issues are found. Many buyers in Kirklevington have successfully negotiated price reductions based on survey findings, saving them thousands of pounds.

If our surveyor identifies any serious issues that require further investigation, the report will include a recommendation to consult a specialist. This might include a structural engineer for concerns about the building's stability, a damp specialist for persistent moisture problems, or an electrician for outdated wiring. We never recommend unnecessary investigations - our recommendations are based on what we actually observe during the inspection.