RICS Level 2 Survey in North Aston

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, roofs, and foundations, looking for signs of movement, damp, or deterioration. The survey covers both the interior and exterior of the building, plus any outbuildings, garages, or associated structures within the property boundaries. Our chartered surveyors use their training and experience to identify defects that might be invisible to the untrained eye.

In a village like North Aston where many properties pre-date 1919 and feature traditional stone or brick construction, our surveyors pay particular attention to age-related issues. We check for rising damp in solid-wall properties, assess the condition of traditional timber windows, and evaluate whether older electrical and plumbing systems meet current standards. The inspection also includes a thorough review of the roof, including tiles, flashing, and underlying timbers which can show wear in older properties. We particularly examine areas where the stonework meets the roofline, as this junction is prone to weathering and water ingress in North Aston's older buildings.

Our surveyors document all defects found using a traffic light rating system: red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects that need future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. Each issue includes an explanation of the problem, its likely cause, and recommended next steps. We also highlight any matters requiring specialist further investigation, such as potential subsidence or structural movement that may affect the property's long-term stability. This clear rating system helps you prioritise repairs and budget accordingly.

• Walls and foundations
• Roof and chimneys
• Damp and moisture
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing and drainage
• Windows and doors
• Timber structures
• Insulation

Based on our experience surveying properties across this area, several recurring issues appear in North Aston homes. Damp problems rank among the most frequent findings, particularly in older stone-built properties where original damp-proof courses may be missing or ineffective. Rising damp affects solid-wall constructions, while penetrating damp often appears around window frames, roof verges, and chimneys where weathering has compromised the building envelope. Our inspectors use moisture meters and their experience to assess the extent and cause of any dampness detected.

Roof conditions represent another common concern in village properties. Traditional slate and tile roofs on older homes suffer from gradual deterioration, with slipped tiles, cracked verges, and deteriorated lead flashing all frequently identified. Our surveyors inspect roof spaces where accessible, checking for timber rot, woodworm infestation, and inadequate insulation that leaves homes vulnerable to heat loss and condensation. In North Aston properties with stone tile roofs, we pay particular attention to the condition of the limestone tiles themselves, which can become porous and brittle with age.

Electrical systems in period properties often require careful assessment. Many older homes still operate with original fuse boards and wiring that does not comply with current Part P building regulations. We note the condition of visible electrical installations and recommend a qualified electrician conducts a fuller inspection before completion. Similarly, plumbing systems in older properties may feature galvanised steel pipes approaching the end of their service life or inappropriate modifications made over decades of DIY improvements.

The clay soil geology across North Aston means we frequently identify signs of foundation movement in older properties. Properties built before modern building regulations often have shallow footings that are more susceptible to seasonal shrink-swell cycles. We look for diagonal cracking around door and window frames, doors that stick or don't close properly, and visible bowing of external walls that might indicate ongoing movement requiring structuralengineer involvement.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Foundation movement
• Missing or damaged flashings
• Inadequate insulation
• Plumbing system deterioration

Booking your RICS Level 2 Survey with Homemove takes just a few minutes. Simply provide the property address and your preferred dates, and our team matches you with a qualified surveyor familiar with North Aston properties. We confirm the appointment within 24 hours and send you a detailed questionnaire to complete, covering any specific concerns or areas you want the inspector to focus on. Our local knowledge means we can advise on any area-specific issues to look out for before the inspection even begins.

On the survey day, our chartered surveyor visits the property and conducts a thorough visual inspection lasting typically 2-4 hours depending on size and complexity. The surveyor examines all accessible areas, takes photographs of key defects, and notes any areas requiring further specialist investigation. You don't need to be present during the inspection, though many buyers choose to meet the surveyor on-site to receive an initial verbal summary. This gives you the chance to ask questions about any immediate concerns while the inspection is fresh in the surveyor's mind.

Your written report arrives within 3-5 working days of the inspection. The document includes a clear summary of the property's overall condition, detailed findings for each element surveyed, colour-coded defect ratings, and practical recommendations for repairs and maintenance. If urgent issues are identified, we contact you the same day to ensure you can act quickly in your purchase negotiations. The report format follows RICS guidelines, ensuring consistency and clarity regardless of which surveyor conducts your inspection.