RICS Level 2 Survey in Marshwood

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas, giving you a clear picture of its overall condition. The survey includes a comprehensive visual inspection of the interior and exterior, from the roof down to the foundations, covering walls, windows, doors, floors, and ceilings. Our inspectors assess the condition of key building elements including the structure, damp proofing, insulation, and the condition of sanitary fittings in bathrooms and kitchens.

The Level 2 format is specifically designed for properties in conventional construction - the type you'll find throughout Marshwood village and the surrounding countryside. Our surveyors check for signs of structural movement, damp penetration, timber defects, and any issues that might affect the property's value or require future maintenance. We examine the condition of the roof covering, flashings, and gutters, along with the condition of external render, brickwork, and stonework that characterises many homes in this area.

Following the inspection, you receive a detailed RICS-approved report written in clear, jargon-free language. The report includes traffic-light ratings for each building element - green for no issues, amber for minor defects requiring attention, and red for serious defects requiring urgent repair. This clear system helps you prioritise any remedial work and negotiate with sellers if significant issues are identified.

Our inspection extends to all accessible areas including the roof space (where safe and accessible), under-floor voids, and outbuildings. We assess the condition of boundaries, retaining walls, and any other features that form part of the property. The comprehensive nature of our Level 2 survey ensures you have a complete picture of the property's condition before you commit to your purchase.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proofing and render
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Floors, stairs and ceilings
• Plumbing and electrical services
• Damp and timber condition
• Thermal insulation
• External areas and boundaries

Properties in Marshwood showcase the distinctive building traditions of this historic Dorset village. Many homes are constructed from cobb and stone, with characteristic rendered elevations beneath traditional thatched roofs - a signature feature of the Marshwood Vale landscape. Our surveyors understand these traditional construction methods and know exactly what to look for when inspecting older properties built using these time-honoured techniques.

Cobb construction, made from earth, straw, and lime, requires specialist knowledge to assess correctly. Our inspectors examine cobb walls for signs of erosion, structural movement, and damp penetration, which can be particular concerns in older properties. The thatched roofs found on many period homes, while beautiful, require careful inspection for wear, potential leaks, and the condition of the supporting rafters beneath. These are elements that require experienced eyes to properly evaluate.

Recent planning approvals on the western outskirts of Marshwood village (reference P/FUL/2021/00544) include four new detached houses, bringing modern construction to the area alongside the traditional stock. considering a new-build property or a historic cottage, our surveyors adapt their inspection approach to suit the specific construction type and age of the property you're purchasing.

Beyond cobb and thatch, Marshwood also features properties constructed from local stone, brick-faced homes, and even some pre-fabricated concrete bungalows. Each construction type brings its own set of potential issues and maintenance requirements. Our surveyors are familiar with all these construction methods and understand how to identify defects specific to each type, ensuring a thorough assessment regardless of the property's construction.

• Cobb and stone construction
• Thatched roofs
• Period features
• Modern detached homes

The age and construction style of properties in Marshwood mean our surveyors frequently identify several recurring issues during Level 2 inspections. Damp problems rank among the most common findings, particularly rising damp in cobb-walled properties and penetrating damp in older buildings where traditional lime mortar pointing has deteriorated. Our inspectors use their expertise to identify the type, cause, and severity of any dampness present.

Roof conditions demand particular attention in Marshwood, especially given the prevalence of thatched roofs. Thatch requires specialist maintenance and is prone to deterioration, slippage, and water penetration if not properly maintained. Our surveyors carefully assess thatch condition, looking for signs of wear, moss growth, and the integrity of the ridge. For properties with slate or tile roofs, we check for broken or missing tiles, damaged flashings, and the condition of the roof structure.

Traditional cobb and stone properties can experience structural movement over time, particularly in response to ground conditions. Clay soils common throughout Dorset can cause shrink-swell ground movement that manifests as cracking in walls. Our inspectors examine all walls for signs of movement, measuring and documenting any cracks that might indicate structural concerns requiring further investigation. While specific data for Marshwood isn't available, we're alert to these issues in properties throughout the Marshwood Vale.

Outdated electrical systems and plumbing are frequently identified in older properties, many of which will have had minimal updating since original construction. We note the general condition of visible electrical and plumbing installations and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers where necessary. This is particularly important in properties over 50 years old, which make up a significant proportion of Marshwood's housing stock.