RICS Level 2 Survey Markfield

Markfield's housing stock presents a variety of construction types that require experienced surveyors. With approximately 36.4% of properties built before 1965, many homes in the village are over 60 years old and come with age-related issues that our Level 2 surveys identify comprehensively. The breakdown shows 10.8% of properties were built before 1919, 8.0% between 1919-1944, and 17.6% between 1945-1964. This significant proportion of older properties means buyers face potential issues ranging from outdated electrical systems to structural concerns that only a professional survey can uncover.

The predominant geology in this part of Leicestershire consists of Triassic Mercia Mudstone, which has a moderate to high shrink-swell potential. This means properties with mature trees nearby or those experiencing variable moisture conditions can be susceptible to subsidence or heave, issues that our surveyors specifically check for during inspections. The Environment Agency's flood maps also indicate some areas of Markfield at risk of surface water flooding, particularly along lower-lying routes and near watercourses, so our inspectors pay particular attention to drainage and ground conditions when assessing properties.

The village's conservation area, covering Main Street, Church Walk, and parts of London Road, includes several historic properties alongside newer developments. Properties in these areas, including the Grade II* listed St Michael and All Angels Church and various historic farmhouses, may require additional specialist attention. Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough assessment of the property's condition, highlighting any defects, maintenance issues, or structural concerns that could affect your investment.

Many properties in Markfield were built using traditional red brick construction, with older homes featuring solid wall construction and shallow strip foundations. Mid-century properties from the 1945-1980 period typically use cavity wall construction, while newer homes on developments like Markfield Croft and The Croft feature modern building methods with improved insulation. Each construction type has its own typical defect patterns, and our surveyors are trained to identify these specific issues during the inspection.

Markfield has seen significant new housing development in recent years, with two major developments bringing modern properties to the village. Markfield Croft, built by Davidsons Homes on Ashby Road (LE67 9UA), offers 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes with prices ranging from £299,995 to £549,995. Similarly, The Croft development by Jelson Homes on London Road (LE67 9RU) provides 2, 3, and 4-bedroom properties priced from £269,950 to £449,950. Even though these are new build properties, our Level 2 surveys can identify construction defects, snagging issues, or problems with building standards that may have been overlooked during the build process.

While new build properties typically have fewer issues than older homes, they are not immune to problems. Our surveyors frequently identify issues such as inadequate ventilation leading to condensation, poorly installed insulation, minor structural defects, and issues with window or door fittings. Given that properties built between 2012 and 2021 account for 9.1% of Markfield's housing stock, there are numerous relatively new homes in the area that can still benefit from our professional assessment. A Level 2 Survey on a new build provides and documentation of any issues that can be addressed with the developer.

For buyers purchasing off-plan or newly completed properties, we recommend scheduling the survey as close to completion as possible to identify any issues arising from the final stages of construction. Our detailed reports serve as a valuable snagging list that can be presented to the developer or builder, ensuring that problems are addressed before you fully commit to the property.

Our experience surveying properties throughout Markfield and the surrounding Leicestershire area has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems, particularly rising damp and penetrating damp, are common in older properties with solid walls, especially where ventilation is inadequate or external elements have deteriorated. With 10.8% of properties built before 1919 and many others over 50 years old, damp is one of the most frequently identified issues in our Markfield surveys. Our surveyors use visual assessment and moisture meters to identify affected areas and recommend appropriate remediation.

Roof conditions frequently require attention on properties over 50 years old. Worn tiles or slates, defective flashings, and deteriorated timbers are typical findings that our reports highlight. Given the age profile of much of Markfield's housing stock, with 17.6% built between 1945-1964 and 10.8% built before 1919, roof issues are among the most commonly identified defects. We thoroughly inspect accessible roof spaces and comment on the condition of coverings, flashing, and structural timbers. Properties with original roof coverings over 60 years old often require re-roofing within the near future.

The local geology presents specific challenges for property owners. The Mercia Mudstone underlying much of Markfield has shrink-swell characteristics that can cause ground movement, particularly in properties with mature trees or those with inadequate drainage. Our surveyors check for signs of subsidence, cracking, or movement that may indicate foundation issues. Additionally, we note any drainage problems, which can exacerbate ground movement issues if left unaddressed. While Markfield is not directly within a major historical coalfield like nearby Coalville, we still check for any local mining legacy that might affect foundations.

Outdated electrical systems are another common finding, particularly in properties built before current electrical regulations were introduced. Properties with original fuse boards, dated wiring, or insufficient socket outlets require attention from a qualified electrician. Similarly, plumbing systems in older properties often use materials that are now considered outdated, such as lead pipes or galvanised steel, which should be replaced to meet modern standards and ensure safe water quality.