RICS Level 2 Survey in Lullington

Our RICS Level 2 Surveys provide a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. In Lullington, where many homes date from the 19th century when the village was developed as an estate village by the Colvile family, our surveyors pay particular attention to the common issues affecting period properties. We examine the condition of roofs, walls, windows, and doors, as well as the structural integrity of the building. Our inspectors also assess the condition of services including electrical wiring, plumbing, and heating systems. We work systematically through each element, noting the condition and identifying any defects that require attention.

Given the local geology beneath Lullington, our surveyors are particularly vigilant for signs of subsidence or movement. The village sits on Mercia Mudstone, a bedrock known for its shrink-swell properties that can cause ground movement during periods of extreme wet or dry weather. We inspect for cracking in walls, uneven floors, doors that stick, and other indicators of potential subsidence issues, especially in properties with shallower foundations that may be more vulnerable to ground conditions. Properties near the many trees and hedgerows in the area may be at additional risk from root-induced ground movement.

Our surveyors also assess the specific construction methods used in Lullington's older properties. Traditional brickwork and stone masonry, common in Victorian and Edwardian homes throughout the village, can suffer from deteriorating mortar joints, efflorescence, and spalling bricks where frost has caused damage. We examine external walls for signs of bulging, leaning, or previous repair work that might indicate structural movement. The pattern and direction of any cracking provides important clues about the nature and severity of any movement, and we note this carefully in our reports.

• Roof condition and covering
• Wall structure and cracks
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and gas services
• Windows and doors
• Foundation indicators

The majority of housing stock in Lullington was constructed during the 19th century, meaning properties are likely to exhibit some age-related issues. Our surveyors frequently identify damp problems in period properties, particularly rising damp in solid wall constructions that lack modern damp-proof courses. Penetrating damp from deteriorated roof coverings or damaged pointing is also common, especially following the wetter winters that have become more frequent in the East Midlands. We use moisture meters to assess wall moisture levels and identify areas where damp proof treatment may be recommended.

Timber defects represent another significant concern in older Lullington properties. Roof timbers may show signs of woodworm infestation or wet rot, particularly where ventilation has been poor or where roof coverings have allowed water ingress. Ground floor timbers are vulnerable to rot where damp-proof membranes are absent or have failed. Our surveyors tap and probe accessible timber to assess its condition and flag any areas of concern. In properties with original floorboards, we also check for signs of woodworm in the floor structure.

The condition of electrical and plumbing installations requires careful assessment in period properties. Many Victorian and Edwardian homes in Lullington will have had their original systems partially updated, but residual outdated wiring or piping may remain in hidden areas. We note the apparent age of visible installations, check whether consumer units appear modern, and identify any obvious deficiencies. Where we have concerns about the condition or safety of electrical or gas installations, we recommend follow-up inspections by qualified electricians or gas engineers.

Roof coverings on period properties in Lullington often consist of traditional slate or clay tiles, which may be approaching or beyond their expected lifespan. Our surveyors assess the condition of roof coverings, check for slipped or missing tiles, and examine flashing around chimneys and roof windows. Deteriorated felt beneath tile coverings can allow water ingress that may not be immediately visible from inside the property. We recommend repairs or replacement where roof coverings show significant wear.

Your RICS Level 2 Survey report uses a clear rating system to communicate the condition of different elements. Properties are rated from 1 (no repair needed) to 3 (urgent repair or serious issues requiring attention). This system allows you to quickly identify which areas require immediate attention and which are simply in need of routine maintenance. Each section includes photographs and descriptions of defects found, with explanations of potential consequences if left unaddressed. The condition ratings provide an at-a-glance summary while the detailed text explains the full extent of any issues.

The report also includes an Energy Efficiency section (EPC) as standard, providing information about the property's current energy performance. For older properties in Lullington, this often reveals significant potential for improvement through insulation upgrades, window replacement, or heating system modernisations. Understanding the energy efficiency of your new home helps you plan for future investment and ongoing running costs. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in the village have poor energy efficiency due to solid wall construction and single-glazed windows.

Each report includes a market valuation comment and an insurance rebuild figure, providing useful context for your purchase decision. The market valuation considers the property's condition and location within the Lullington market, while the rebuild figure is important for buildings insurance purposes. These additional elements help you understand the full financial implications of your purchase and ensure you have appropriate insurance cover from day one.