RICS Level 2 Survey in Mollington

Our RICS Level 2 surveys provide a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects and issues that could affect the value or safety of the property. In Mollington, where many homes pre-date 1919 and feature traditional construction methods, our surveyors pay particular attention to the common problem areas that affect period properties. We examine walls, floors, ceilings, the roof structure, windows, doors, and key fixtures, documenting any defects found and categorising them by severity.

The survey includes assessment of the property's main services - electrical, gas (where applicable), and plumbing - though we always recommend separate specialist inspections for these installations. Our inspectors will identify visible signs of damp, timber decay, structural movement, and roof defects, all of which are particularly relevant in Mollington given the local geology and the age of much of the housing stock. The resulting report provides clear, jargon-free guidance on what each defect means for you as the buyer.

We specifically examine the potential impact of Mollington's local geology on properties. The Jurassic bedrock in this area includes clay-rich formations such as the Charmouth Mudstone and Dyrham Formation that can cause shrink-swell movement, leading to subsidence or foundation problems. Our surveyors look for signs of this type of movement, including cracking, door and window binding, and uneven floors, providing you with essential information about the property's structural stability.

Given that Mollington has a designated Conservation Area and numerous listed buildings, our surveyors are also alert to the special considerations that apply to historic properties. We understand that traditional building materials like ironstone and limestone require specific expertise to assess correctly, and we factor these considerations into every report we produce for the village.

• Accessible roof spaces
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures
• Visible damp and timber defects
• Signs of structural movement
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Services (visual inspection only)

Properties in Mollington face several area-specific issues that our Level 2 surveys identify regularly. The clay-rich geology underlying much of the village creates potential for shrink-swell ground movement, particularly during periods of drought or excessive rainfall. This can lead to subsidence, which manifests as cracking in walls, particularly around door and window openings, and doors or windows that no longer close properly. Our surveyors are trained to identify these signs and assess their severity, paying particular attention to properties with mature trees nearby that can exacerbate moisture-related ground movement.

Damp problems are extremely common in Mollington's older properties. Many homes built before 1919 feature solid walls without modern damp-proof courses, making them susceptible to rising damp, particularly where ground levels have been raised over time or external ground drainage is poor. Penetrating damp can also affect properties where the external fabric has deteriorated, and inadequate ventilation often leads to condensation issues, especially in newer extensions or converted rooms. Our inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to identify the extent and source of damp problems.

The traditional roofing materials used throughout Mollington - slate and clay tiles - require ongoing maintenance, and our inspectors regularly identify slipped tiles, degraded pointing to ridge tiles, and deterioration of flat roof coverings. The timber rafters and purlins in older roofs can also suffer from woodworm or dry rot, particularly where ventilation has been compromised by modernisations. These defects, while sometimes appearing minor, can lead to significant water ingress and structural damage if left unaddressed.

Electrical and plumbing systems in Mollington's older properties frequently require attention. Properties constructed before 1980 often have electrical wiring that does not meet current regulations, including older fuse boards, rubber-insulated cabling, and a lack of earthing. Similarly, lead or galvanised steel pipes may still be in service, presenting both water quality and leak risks. Our survey notes the condition of visible electrical and plumbing installations and recommends specialist inspections where necessary.

• Subsidence from clay soil movement
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile slippage and degradation
• Timber decay in roof structures
• Outdated electrical installations
• Defective guttering and drainage
• Solid wall insulation issues
• Window and door deterioration

Flood risk is an important consideration for property buyers in Mollington, and our Level 2 surveys include assessment of any visible signs of flooding or water damage. Parts of Mollington, particularly properties near the village stream and in low-lying areas, have a low to medium risk of river flooding. The Environment Agency's flood maps show that some properties along watercourses could be affected during significant rainfall events.

Surface water flooding presents a more widespread risk in Mollington, with several areas showing medium to high vulnerability, particularly around the main roads through the village and in dip areas where water naturally collects. Properties in these locations may have experienced flooding in the past, and our surveyors specifically look for evidence of this, including watermarks, damaged plasterwork at low level, and signs of damp that might indicate recurring moisture problems.

If our inspection identifies elevated flood risk, we will flag this clearly in your report and recommend you consult the Environment Agency's detailed flood maps for the specific location. We can also advise on whether a specialist flood risk assessment would be appropriate, particularly for properties in higher-risk areas or those with a known history of flooding.