RICS Level 2 Survey in NN17 1 Corby

A RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects that may impact the value or safety of the home. Our inspectors examine the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, damp proofing, and the condition of services such as plumbing and electrics. The survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element, with red highlighting serious issues requiring immediate attention, amber flagging defects that warrant further investigation, and green confirming satisfactory condition. This clear rating system helps you quickly understand which issues need urgent action and which can be monitored over time.

For properties in the NN17 1 area, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in Corby's housing stock. Many properties in this area were built during the post-war expansion period, and while Corby has seen significant modern development, a substantial proportion of the housing dates back several decades. This means issues such as aging roof coverings, original windows, and outdated electrical systems are frequently encountered. Our detailed report will flag these issues and provide practical recommendations for addressing them, whether through immediate repairs or planned maintenance. We have found that properties along streets like those in the EN and EQ sectors often present similar defect patterns that our surveyors recognise quickly.

The geological conditions in the Corby area also warrant specific attention during the survey. The underlying Jurassic geology in this part of Northamptonshire includes clay deposits, which can lead to shrink-swell behaviour in soils. This can potentially cause subsidence or heave issues, particularly for properties with shallower foundations or those with mature trees nearby. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of movement or potential subsidence risk and will include appropriate recommendations in your report if concerns are identified. During the inspection, we examine walls for characteristic cracking patterns, check whether doors and windows bind or stick, and assess the condition of any visible foundation elements.

Brick construction predominates in Corby's residential areas, with properties ranging from traditional solid wall construction in older homes to cavity wall construction in more modern builds. Our surveyors understand how these different construction methods perform over time and what specific defects to look for in each type. Properties with solid walls may lack adequate damp proof courses or have older rendering that traps moisture, while cavity wall properties may have insulation installed incorrectly or cavity bridging that leads to damp problems. We inspect all accessible elements systematically, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• External joinery and finishes
• Garage and outbuildings
• Site boundaries and access

Properties in the NN17 1 area can present several common issues that our surveyors regularly identify during inspections. Rising damp is frequently found in older properties, particularly those with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction. This issue is often caused by failed or missing damp proof courses, blocked sub-floor ventilation, or inappropriate modern insulation that traps moisture within walls. Our surveyors use professional moisture meters to assess damp levels and will recommend appropriate remediation measures if rising or penetrating damp is detected. We have found that properties with solid brick walls in the older parts of NN17 1 are particularly susceptible to damp issues, especially where external ground levels have been raised over time.

Roofing problems are another common finding in Corby properties, especially those with aging roof coverings that have exceeded their expected lifespan. Missing or cracked tiles, deteriorated flashing around chimneys, and worn felt underlay can all lead to water ingress and subsequent damage to ceilings and walls. Many properties in the area also have original timber windows that may be showing signs of rot or deterioration, particularly where maintenance has been neglected. These issues are clearly flagged in the survey report with recommendations for repair or replacement. Our surveyors have noted that properties on streets with mature trees nearby often have more extensive roof debris and moss growth that accelerates tile deterioration.

Electrical safety is a significant concern in properties that have not been updated in recent years. Original wiring from the mid-20th century may not meet current regulations and could pose a fire risk. Our surveyors will visually inspect the consumer unit, wiring, and socket outlets where accessible and will recommend a professional electrical inspection (EICR) by a qualified electrician if any concerns are identified. Similarly, plumbing systems in older properties may feature galvanised steel pipes that are prone to internal corrosion and reduced water pressure, another issue we routinely flag for our clients in the Corby area. We have found that many properties in NN17 1 still have original plumbing that would benefit from upgrading.

The clay geology underlying much of the Corby area means that subsidence and ground movement are real concerns for property buyers. Properties built on clay soils can experience shrink-swell movement as moisture levels change, particularly during dry summers or periods of drought. This movement can manifest as cracking in walls, doors and windows that stick or bind, and visible signs of movement in the structure. Our surveyors are trained to identify these symptoms and will recommend a structural engineer's inspection if we suspect subsidence or heave issues. Properties with mature trees close to the building are particularly at risk, as tree roots can draw moisture from the clay and exacerbate shrink-swell movement.