RICS Level 2 Survey in Onehouse

Our Level 2 survey provides a detailed inspection of all accessible areas of the property, examining the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and chimneys. The surveyor checks both the interior and exterior of the building, identifying defects that affect the value or safety of the property. In Onehouse, where properties range from 1970s Northfield Estate homes to historic listed buildings, our inspectors pay particular attention to the specific construction era and materials used. We have found that properties in this area often present distinct challenges based on their age and construction type.

The survey includes assessment of damp levels using moisture meters, inspection of timber elements for signs of rot or infestation, and evaluation of the property's insulation and energy efficiency considerations. Our chartered surveyors also examine the condition of any attached garages, outbuildings, or boundaries that form part of the property. Each survey follows RICS guidelines precisely, ensuring consistency and reliability regardless of property type. We take particular care to check original windows in period properties, as these are often a source of significant repair costs.

Onehouse contains 25 listed buildings alongside newer developments, and our surveyors understand how to identify issues common to both historic and modern construction. For properties in the village centre near the Paupers' Graves conservation area, we pay additional attention to traditional building methods including flint and stone work, while properties on newer developments require assessment of modern building techniques and materials. We frequently identify issues with cavity wall insulation in modern properties and timber frame deterioration in older homes.

The final report includes clear condition ratings for each element surveyed, with traffic light indicators showing areas requiring immediate attention, future maintenance, or further investigation by specialists. We provide practical recommendations alongside our findings, helping you budget for any remedial works identified during the inspection. Our reports include specific cost guidance where possible, helping you understand the financial implications of any issues discovered.

• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Roof covering and flashing
• Damp and moisture detection
• Timber condition and rot
• Chimney and fireplace condition
• Windows and doors
• Floor structures
• Garage and outbuildings
• Boundary walls and fences

Onehouse presents a diverse mix of property types that require experienced surveyors familiar with local construction methods. The village experienced significant growth in the 1970s, with the Northfield Estate development of 150 houses creating the majority of the current housing stock. These properties, now approaching 50 years old, commonly show signs of aging including roof covering deterioration, original window degradation, and emerging structural movement in some cases. We have surveyed many properties on the Northfield Estate and understand the typical issues that arise at this age.

The village also contains several historic properties including Onehouse Hall, a mid-16th century farmhouse and former manor house, alongside numerous listed barns and cottages. Properties of this age feature traditional construction including timber frames, wattle and daub infill, and historic brick chimneys. Our surveyors understand these traditional building methods and can identify issues specific to historic properties, including structural movement in ancient timbers, deterioration of lime mortar pointing, and the condition of thatched or historic roof coverings. We have inspected several properties on Bury Road and near the village centre that showcase these traditional construction methods.

Newer properties from the Bloor Homes development and other contemporary housing use modern construction techniques with brick cavity walls and concrete tile roofs. While generally requiring less maintenance than older properties, these homes can still present issues including condensation problems, inadequate insulation in lofts, and defects in modern window installations. Our Level 2 survey identifies these issues comprehensively. We have found that some newer properties suffer from thermal bridging and inadequate ventilation that leads to damp problems.

The conservation area around the Paupers' Graves and the concentration of 25 listed buildings in the village means that some properties may have restrictions on alterations or require specialist maintenance approaches. Our survey reports highlight any conservation or listing considerations that may affect your ownership and future plans for the property. We understand the implications of listed building status and can advise on what this means for your intended use of the property.

• 1970s Northfield Estate properties
• Victorian and Edwardian cottages
• Modern new build homes
• Listed buildings and barn conversions
• Conservation area properties
• Semi-rural edge of village homes