RICS Level 2 Survey in New Moat

New Moat is a village steeped in history, sitting in the heart of Pembrokeshire's rural landscape. The village and surrounding area contain numerous listed buildings, including the notable Church of Saint Mary (Grade II*), the Church of Saint Meilyr (Grade II), and the medieval Parish Church of Saint Nicholas which was largely rebuilt in the 1880s but retains its medieval tower. Properties in New Moat include historic farmhouses like those at New Mill, traditional cottages such as 1 and 2 Penrhiw Cottages, and the elegant Mote House and Mote Lodge which date from the early 19th century. Many properties in New Moat are over 50 years old, with some dating back to the 19th century or earlier, meaning they come with the kinds of issues that only a professional survey can uncover.

Traditional Welsh construction methods using local stone, rubble, and slate roofs are common throughout the area. The older properties typically feature rendered stone walls that can be prone to damp penetration if not properly maintained, while slate roofs, while durable, require expert assessment for age-related wear and potential leaks around flashing and chimneys. Our chartered surveyors understand these local nuances and will flag any issues that are particularly relevant to properties in New Moat and the wider Pembrokeshire area. We know what to look for in buildings constructed using traditional methods and can advise on the likely cost of any repairs needed.

The village falls within a designated Conservation Area, which means any property you purchase here may be subject to specific restrictions and regulations affecting alterations and extensions. Older properties in conservation areas often require more detailed inspection, as alterations made over decades may not meet current building regulations, and hidden defects can be costly to rectify. Our surveyors will assess whether any past work appears to have the necessary listed building consents or planning permissions, which is essential information for any buyer in a conservation area.

Properties in New Moat range from historic cottages to more recent constructions, though there are no active new-build developments in the immediate area. One recent planning application was approved for the conversion of an agricultural building at Cwm Hill, Wood Park, reflecting the trend towards converting traditional farm buildings into residential properties. Regardless of the age or type of property you are considering, a RICS Level 2 survey gives you the information you need to make an informed decision about what is likely the largest purchase you will ever make.

• Traditional construction methods
• Conservation area considerations
• Older property defects
• Listed building concerns
• Local geology factors
• Flood risk assessment

Properties in New Moat, like many older homes in Pembrokeshire, often present specific issues that our surveyors are trained to identify. The traditional construction methods used in the area, including local stone and rubble walls, can be prone to damp penetration if not properly maintained. Our inspectors examine walls for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation, all of which are common in older properties with solid walls that lack modern damp proof courses. We also assess the condition of render and pointing, as traditional lime mortar can deteriorate over time allowing water ingress.

Slate roofs, while durable, can develop leaks over time, particularly around flashing, chimneys, and valleys. Our inspectors pay close attention to these elements, as repairs to historic roofing can be expensive and specialist contractors are often required in conservation areas. We check for missing or broken slates, damaged flashing, and signs of previous repairs. For properties with thatched roofs (less common but present in the area), we recommend a specialist inspection as these require specific expertise.

Given the age of many properties in the village, outdated electrical systems are a common finding. Wiring that does not meet current regulations poses both a safety risk and may require expensive rewiring before you can safely occupy the property. Our surveyors visually check the consumer unit and exposed wiring where visible, noting any obvious concerns that should be investigated by a qualified electrician. Similarly, plumbing systems in older homes may be original or poorly updated, leading to low water pressure or leak risks. We identify the type of plumbing visible and flag any concerns that warrant further investigation by a plumber.

The surrounding landscape of improved pasture and agricultural land means some properties may be affected by drainage issues or the proximity to watercourses. While New Moat is inland and does not face coastal flood risks, surface water and river flooding can occur in rural areas, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Our surveyors will assess the property's flood risk based on the local topography and any known flood history, advising on any mitigation measures that may be necessary.