RICS Level 2 Survey in Newton-on-the-Moor and Swarland

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our surveyors examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and foundations, looking for signs of structural movement, damp, rot, or other defects that might not be visible during a viewing. The survey includes a visual assessment of services such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems, giving you confidence that the property's essential systems are in reasonable working order. We inspect from both inside and outside the property wherever safely possible.

For properties in Newton-on-the-Moor and Swarland, our inspectors pay particular attention to the construction methods common in rural Northumberland. Many properties in this area feature traditional stone or brick walls with slate or tile roofs, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for in terms of deterioration, weathering, and potential issues with these materials. We've seen numerous properties with original features that require careful assessment, including some homes believed to date back to around 1720. The report includes clear ratings for each element inspected - Condition Rating 1 indicates no repair needed, Condition Rating 2 advises urgent repairs, and Condition Rating 3 signals serious issues requiring immediate attention.

One of the key benefits of the RICS Level 2 Survey is the Market Value Assessment and Insurance Rebuild Cost provided with each report. Given that detached properties in this area average £509,179, having an accurate rebuild cost ensures you're not underinsured. The survey also includes an Energy Efficiency Assessment, helping you understand the property's current energy performance and potential improvement costs. This is particularly valuable for older properties where energy efficiency may be a significant concern.

Our survey reports are accepted by all major mortgage lenders and provide the detailed documentation your conveyancing solicitor needs to proceed with confidence. The clear condition ratings system makes it easy to identify which issues require immediate attention versus those that can be addressed over time.

• External walls and structures
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Windows and doors
• Floors and stairs
• Damp and timber assessment
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Heating and hot water
• Boundaries and exterior areas

Properties in this rural Northumberland area present several common issues that our surveyors frequently identify during inspections. Given the age of much of the housing stock in Newton-on-the-Moor and Swarland, with some properties dating back to the 18th century, damp penetration is a frequent finding. Traditional stone and brick walls, while structurally sound, can suffer from rising damp or penetrating damp, particularly where pointing has deteriorated or where properties have been subject to prolonged exposure to North East weather conditions. Our inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to assess the extent of any damp issues.

Roof conditions also require careful assessment in this area. Many properties feature slate or tile roofs that, while durable, can develop issues with broken or slipped tiles, deteriorating lead flashings, and deteriorating ridge tiles. The exposure to coastal winds from the North Sea can accelerate wear on roof coverings, particularly on properties with west or south-westerly facing slopes. Our surveyors inspect roof spaces where accessible, looking for signs of past or current leakage, timber decay, and insulation adequacy. For properties with thatched roofs, which can occasionally be found in older rural properties, a RICS Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate given the specialist nature of thatch maintenance.

Electrical systems in older properties often require upgrading to meet current safety standards. Properties built before the 1990s may have outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, or fabric-covered cabling that poses a safety risk. Our surveyors note the apparent condition of electrical installations and recommend further investigation by a qualified electrician where necessary. Similarly, heating systems, particularly older oil-fired boilers common in rural areas where mains gas may not be available, are assessed for condition and efficiency. Many properties in the area rely on oil or LPG heating, and these systems require regular servicing and maintenance.

Drainage is another area of particular focus for our inspectors. Properties in rural locations may use private septic tanks or treatment plants rather than mains drainage, and these require specific checks to ensure they're functioning correctly and meet current regulations. We examine external drainage, inspection chambers, and look for signs of blockages or leaks that could indicate underlying problems with the system.