Comprehensive homebuyers survey for properties in the Forest of Bowland AONB








If you are buying a property in Roeburndale, a RICS Level 2 Survey provides the expert assessment you need before committing to your purchase. This survey, formerly known as the Homebuyer Survey, gives you a clear picture of the property's condition, highlighting any defects that could affect its value or require costly repairs. Our chartered surveyors bring extensive experience assessing properties throughout the Lancaster and Forest of Bowland area, including traditional stone-built homes and historic farmhouses typical of this rural Lancashire hamlet.
Roeburndale sits within the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, meaning many properties here are older, traditional buildings constructed from local stone with slate roofs. These characteristics create specific survey considerations that require an experienced eye. Our inspectors understand the construction methods common to this region, from solid-wall stone properties to older timber-framed structures, and they know what to look for when assessing homes in this unique landscape.
Whether you are purchasing a converted barn, a traditional farmhouse, or a historic cottage in this scenic valley, we provide the thorough assessment you need to proceed with confidence. Our team has inspected hundreds of properties throughout the Forest of Bowland region, giving us intimate knowledge of the common issues affecting homes in this area. From identifying damp problems in solid-wall construction to assessing the condition of aging slate roofs, we deliver reports that help you understand exactly what you are buying.

£317,000 (new builds)
Average House Price (Lancashire)
£205,000
Average Older Home Price
11% (£30,100)
Annual Price Increase
High proportion expected
Properties Over 50 Years Old
A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the property, giving you a professional assessment of its overall condition. The survey includes a detailed examination of the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the building's services such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems. Our surveyor will identify any defects, explain their implications, and advise on necessary repairs or further investigations that may be required before you proceed with your purchase.
For properties in Roeburndale, this inspection is particularly valuable given the age and construction type of most homes in this area. The majority of houses in this rural hamlet are likely to be pre-1919 builds, constructed using traditional methods that differ significantly from modern cavity-wall construction. Our inspectors are familiar with the typical issues affecting these older properties, including damp penetration through solid walls, deterioration of traditional timber windows, and the condition of older slate roofing materials.
The survey result is a comprehensive RICS report that uses a simple traffic light system to rate the property's condition. Red indicates serious issues that require urgent attention, amber highlights defects that should be investigated further, and green confirms areas in satisfactory condition. This clear format helps you understand exactly what you are buying and provides you with leverage when negotiating the purchase price based on any remediation costs identified.
We inspect the roof structure by accessing the loft space where safe and accessible, examining rafters, purlins, and any signs of past water penetration. Our damp assessment includes using moisture meters to check wall surfaces for elevated moisture levels that could indicate penetrating damp or rising damp issues common to solid-wall stone properties. We also assess the condition of external joinery, including windows and doors, looking for signs of rot, decay, or inadequate weathering seals that could allow water ingress.
Our team of RICS chartered surveyors has extensive experience inspecting properties throughout Lancashire, including the rural communities within and around the Forest of Bowland AONB. We understand that buying a home in this area means dealing with properties that often have unique characteristics stemming from their age, construction materials, and setting. Whether you are purchasing a converted barn, a traditional farmhouse, or a historic cottage, our surveyors have the local knowledge to identify issues specific to these property types.
When you book your RICS Level 2 Survey with us, you receive a fully insured inspection carried out by a qualified professional who adheres to RICS standards. The surveyor will attend the property at a time convenient for you, typically within a few days of booking, and you will receive your detailed report shortly after the inspection. We aim to deliver reports within 48 hours of the survey date, ensuring you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your property purchase.
Our surveyors understand the particular challenges of assessing properties in the Forest of Bowland landscape. We know that many homes here were built using local gritstone or sandstone, typically with solid walls rather than modern cavity wall construction. This means we pay particular attention to the condition of pointing, the presence and condition of any damp-proof course, and the way water drains from roof slopes. We have seen countless properties with original slate roofs that require careful assessment of individual slate condition, flashing details, and valley gutters.

Source: ONS 2024-2025
Simply provide your property details and preferred dates using our online booking system. We will confirm your appointment within 24 hours and send you all the necessary information about preparing for the survey. Our booking system accepts all property types, and we will ask for details about the age and construction of your Roeburndale property to ensure the right surveyor is assigned.
Our chartered surveyor visits your Roeburndale property and conducts a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas. The inspection typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the property size. You are welcome to attend and ask questions during the survey. Our inspector will examine the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and all visible services, taking photographs of any issues found.
Within 48 hours of the inspection, you receive your comprehensive RICS Level 2 Survey report by email. The report includes clear ratings, photographs of any issues, and practical recommendations for addressing defects identified. We provide a summary section at the front highlighting the most important findings, followed by detailed sections covering each area of the property.
Properties in Roeburndale often sit in flood-risk areas due to the River Roeburn flowing through the valley. Our surveyors pay particular attention to flood mitigation measures, drainage systems, and any signs of previous water damage when inspecting properties near watercourses. If you are considering a property in this area, the Level 2 Survey will highlight any flood-related concerns that warrant further investigation.
The Forest of Bowland AONB designation significantly influences the type of properties you will find in Roeburndale and the surrounding area. Many homes here are constructed from local gritstone or sandstone, reflecting the traditional building materials of this part of Lancashire. These solid-wall properties require different assessment criteria compared to modern cavity-walled houses, and our surveyors understand how to evaluate the condition of these traditional structures effectively. We check the pointing between stone blocks, as weathered or decayed mortar can allow water penetration that leads to damp problems inside the property.
The geology of the Forest of Bowland area includes Carboniferous rocks, primarily Millstone Grit and Bowland Shales, with clay-rich elements that can pose a shrink-swell risk in certain conditions. Properties with mature trees nearby may be particularly susceptible to ground movement as tree roots absorb moisture from the clay soil. Our inspectors assess the foundations and external walls carefully, looking for signs of subsidence or movement that could indicate underlying structural issues requiring further investigation. We note the position of any large trees relative to the property and assess whether foundations may be affected by seasonal moisture changes in the clay substrata.
Given the rural nature of Roeburndale, many properties will have private drainage systems rather than mains connections. These septic tanks and soakaways require specific inspection, and our surveyors will assess their condition where accessible. Additionally, the age of properties in this area means that electrical wiring and plumbing systems are often outdated and may not meet current regulations. The survey will highlight any concerns regarding the condition of these essential services. We note the type of consumer unit, the presence of modern earthing, and the condition of visible pipework.
Many properties in the Roeburndale area will be listed buildings given the AONB status and historic character of the hamlet. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing listed properties and will note any visible alterations that may require listed building consent. We will recommend a RICS Level 3 Survey for particularly complex historic properties where more detailed assessment of structural elements would be beneficial. The report will flag any concerns about potential unauthorized works that could affect your legal standing as a purchaser.
The RICS Level 2 Survey includes a visual inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying any significant defects. It covers the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, chimneys, and extensions, as well as the property's services including electrics, plumbing, and heating. The report uses a traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each area and provides advice on any urgent issues and recommended further investigations. For properties in Roeburndale, this means we specifically assess the condition of traditional slate roofs, stone wall pointing, solid-wall damp-proofing, and private drainage systems that are common in this rural area.
RICS Level 2 Survey fees in the Roeburndale area typically start from around £400 for standard properties, with the final cost depending on factors such as the property's size, age, and construction type. Larger properties or those with complex characteristics may cost more. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and you will receive a confirmed quote before booking. For larger detached homes or historic farmhouses typical of the Forest of Bowland area, fees may be higher due to the additional time required for thorough assessment of traditional construction methods.
Even new build properties can benefit from a RICS Level 2 Survey, despite being recently constructed. While major structural issues are less likely, the survey can identify defects in workmanship, snagging issues, or problems with fittings and finishes. Given that new builds in the Lancashire area reached an average price of £317,000, a survey provides valuable assurance that your significant investment is sound. Our surveyors check for issues such as inadequate ventilation in loft spaces, incomplete damp-proofing, and defects in window and door installations that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
Yes, our surveyors are experienced in identifying damp issues in traditional stone-built properties common to the Roeburndale area. They will use visual indicators and moisture meters to assess walls for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. Given that many properties here have solid walls without cavity insulation, damp assessment is a critical part of the inspection, and any concerns will be clearly reported. We pay particular attention to the condition of external pointing, the state of any existing damp-proof course, and the effectiveness of gutters and downpipes in directing water away from the building fabric.
If the RICS Level 2 Survey identifies serious defects, you have several options available. You can request that the vendor addresses the issues before completion, negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to cover remediation costs, or in some cases, withdraw from the purchase entirely. Your solicitor can use the survey report to renegotiate the terms of your offer based on the findings. We provide clear guidance on the severity of any issues found, helping you understand which defects require immediate attention and which might be suitable for ongoing monitoring.
Roeburndale is situated in a valley through which the River Roeburn flows, meaning properties near the river have an inherent flood risk. Surface water flooding can also be a concern in this rural, hilly area following heavy rainfall. Our surveyors will inspect the property for signs of previous flooding and assess any flood mitigation measures in place. We recommend requesting a separate flood risk assessment for properties in high-risk areas. During the inspection, we look for water marks on walls, the condition of any flood defence measures, and the drainage characteristics of the surrounding land.
Properties in Roeburndale tend to share several common defect patterns that our surveyors are trained to identify. Deteriorated slate roofing is frequent, with slipped or broken slates, decaying lead flashing, and issues in valley gutters being commonly observed. Timber window frames in older properties often show signs of rot, particularly at the bottom sills where water collects. We frequently find outdated electrical installations that may not comply with current regulations, and older plumbing systems using galvanized steel pipes that are prone to internal corrosion and reduced water pressure. Our reports clearly document any such issues and provide practical recommendations for addressing them.
Our surveyors carefully assess properties for signs of structural movement, which is particularly important in older stone-built homes in the Roeburndale area. We look for cracking in walls, doors and windows that stick or do not close properly, and signs of settlement in the building's fabric. While some minor movement is common in older properties and may be acceptable, we identify any signs of significant or ongoing movement that could indicate more serious structural issues. Where we find concerns, we recommend engaging a structural engineer for more detailed assessment before you proceed with your purchase.
Our RICS Level 2 Survey in Roeburndale provides you with the confidence to proceed with your property purchase armed with complete knowledge of its condition. Whether you are buying a charming stone cottage, a historic farmhouse, or a modernised period property in this scenic Lancashire hamlet, our detailed inspection ensures you understand exactly what you are investing in. We provide clear, jargon-free reports that highlight any issues in plain English, with photographs to help you visualize the problems identified.
Don't let hidden defects catch you out. Contact us today to book your RICS Level 2 Survey and receive your professional property assessment from experienced local surveyors who understand the unique characteristics of homes in the Forest of Bowland area. Our team is familiar with the specific challenges that properties in this part of Lancashire face, from traditional stone construction to rural drainage systems. We deliver the thorough assessment you need to make an informed decision about your property purchase.
Buying a home is likely to be the largest financial commitment you will ever make, and a RICS Level 2 Survey provides essential protection against unexpected repair costs. In a rural area like Roeburndale, where properties often have unique characteristics and may be several hundred years old, having a professional assessment is particularly valuable. Our surveyors have the local knowledge to identify issues that generic surveys might miss, giving you the confidence to proceed with your purchase or the information you need to negotiate a fair price.

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Comprehensive homebuyers survey for properties in the Forest of Bowland AONB
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Homemove is a trading name of HM Haus Group Ltd (Company No. 13873779, registered in England & Wales). Homemove Mortgages Ltd (Company No. 15947693) is an Appointed Representative of TMG Direct Limited, trading as TMG Mortgage Network, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 786245). Homemove Mortgages Ltd is entered on the FCA Register as an Appointed Representative (FRN 1022429). You can check registrations at NewRegister or by calling 0800 111 6768.