RICS Level 2 Survey in Long Compton

The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is our most popular option for properties in Long Compton, particularly suitable for the village's mix of conventional construction homes. Our inspectors examine the property's visible and accessible elements, identifying defects that could affect value or require costly repairs. We provide clear, colour-coded ratings from "OK" to "Urgent" so you understand exactly which issues need attention.

Given Long Compton's prevalence of older properties dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of traditional Cotswold stone walls, thatched and stone-tiled roofs, and historic timber elements. We check for signs of damp in solid-wall properties, assess the condition of aging roof structures, and evaluate outdated electrical and plumbing systems that are common in older homes.

Our Level 2 survey includes a market valuation element, giving you assurance that the property is worth the agreed purchase price. We also provide specific advice on any urgent repairs needed and estimated costs for remediation. For the 31 listed buildings in Long Compton and properties within the Conservation Area, we highlight any special considerations regarding materials and maintenance requirements.

The survey also addresses any potential flood risk from the tributary of the River Stour that rises in the valley where Long Compton sits. While the village itself isn't in a high-risk flood zone, our surveyors will note any areas of the property that may be susceptible to surface water flooding after heavy rainfall, particularly for properties in lower-lying parts of the village.

• Visible structural issues
• Roof condition and defects
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and plumbing condition
• Boundary and outbuilding assessment
• Energy efficiency overview

Long Compton's unique position within the Cotswolds means that properties here were traditionally built using locally quarried oolitic limestone, a distinctive golden-coloured stone that defines the village's character. However, this traditional construction method presents specific challenges that our RICS Level 2 surveys are designed to identify and assess.

Many of the village's older properties feature solid stone walls rather than the cavity walls found in modern construction. These solid walls have no built-in damp proof course, making them more susceptible to rising damp, particularly if ground levels have been raised over the years or if the original lime mortar has been inappropriately replaced with cement. Our inspectors use moisture meters to assess damp levels and can identify where modern cement-based mortars may be causing trapped moisture and subsequent deterioration of the stonework.

The village's geology, sitting on Jurassic limestone bedrock, generally provides stable ground conditions. However, we still assess for any signs of subsidence or movement, particularly around properties with mature trees or those that have undergone extensions. We also check drainage systems, as poor surface water drainage can affect even structurally sound properties.

With 82 buildings considered to be of local architectural and historic value within the Conservation Area, and properties like Appletrees (a mid-18th century cottage), Ferndale (a mid-to-late 17th century house), and the Red Lion Inn (dated 1748), understanding the condition of these historic properties is crucial for any prospective buyer.

Long Compton's housing stock presents specific challenges that our RICS Level 2 surveys frequently identify. The prevalence of solid-wall construction in the village's older properties means damp can be a significant issue, particularly where modern cement-based mortars have been inappropriately applied to traditional lime mortar structures. Our inspectors look carefully for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation problems that are common in period properties.

Thatched and stone-tiled roofs require specialist knowledge to assess properly. We examine the condition of thatch, checking for degradation, vegetation growth, and structural integrity. For stone-tiled roofs, we assess for slipped tiles, damaged ridges, and the condition of underlying battens and felt. These traditional roof types can develop leaks that may not be immediately visible from inside the property.

The village's older properties often contain original electrical wiring and plumbing that may not meet current regulations. We highlight outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, and old pipework that may require updating. Additionally, timber defects such as wet rot, dry rot, and woodworm can affect structural elements if properties have experienced damp or inadequate ventilation over the years.

Many properties in Long Compton have been extended over the years, and our surveyors carefully assess the quality of these extensions, checking for appropriate foundations, adequate ties to the original structure, and proper damp proofing. Poorly executed extensions can create ongoing problems with damp penetration and structural integrity.

Long Compton offers a unique opportunity to own a property in one of Warwickshire's most picturesque Cotswold villages. The village benefits from a range of local amenities including a J and I school, village hall, post office and general store, a local butcher, and the historic Red Lion Inn pub. However, prospective buyers should understand that owning a property in a Conservation Area brings additional responsibilities.

Properties within the Conservation Area may be subject to stricter planning controls, and any significant alterations or extensions will require consent from Stratford-on-Avon District Council. Our survey reports highlight any Conservation Area considerations that may affect your plans for the property, ensuring you're fully informed before completing your purchase.

The village's popularity as a commuter location means that properties here can command premium prices, particularly those with good transport links to Stratford-upon-Avon and the wider Warwickshire road network. However, the recent property market data shows some variation in price trends, with Rightmove reporting a 48% decrease compared to the previous year while other sources show more modest changes. Our market valuation element helps ensure you're paying a fair price for the property in current market conditions.