RICS Level 2 Survey in Shipton Moyne

When you book a Level 2 Survey in Shipton Moyne, our inspectors conduct a systematic visual inspection of the property's key structural elements and building condition. This includes the roof structure, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, along with assessments of the property's overall stability and integrity. The survey covers both the interior and exterior of the building, where access is safe and reasonable.

Given the prevalence of period properties in Shipton Moyne, built predominantly between 1800 and 1911 using traditional Cotswold stone construction, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues common to older Cotswold homes. This includes checking for signs of damp (both rising and penetrating damp), assessing the condition of timber elements including joists and rafters, and evaluating older roofing materials such as stone slates that characterise many properties in this area.

The survey also includes assessment of services such as plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems, providing commentary on their general condition and noting any obvious defects or areas requiring specialist attention. Our inspectors will identify any visible signs of subsidence, movement, or structural issues that could impact the property's longevity or require significant remediation. In properties along Whitehouse Lane and Blades Cross Roads, we frequently encounter issues related to the age of original construction materials.

Our surveyors also examine the property's boundaries, outbuildings, and any visible issues with drainage or guttering systems. Given the rural nature of Shipton Moyne, we pay attention to septic tank locations, private water supplies, and the condition of access roads and driveways that may not be adopted by the local authority.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Windows and doors
• Foundations and subsidence indicators
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Drainage and guttering systems

Properties in Shipton Moyne predominantly feature traditional Cotswold stone construction, with solid stone walls that distinguish this area from newer developments. The characteristic golden oolitic limestone, quarried locally in the Cotswolds, creates the beautiful honey-coloured walls that define the village's character. Understanding this construction method is essential for any surveyor assessing properties here, as solid stone walls behave differently from modern cavity wall constructions.

Our chartered surveyors understand that solid stone walls lack the damp-proof characteristics of modern construction. Moisture can travel through the permeable limestone, leading to rising damp issues particularly in ground floor rooms. This is especially relevant in properties where original lime mortar pointing has deteriorated or been replaced with cement mortar, which can trap moisture and cause internal damp problems. We carefully examine the condition of pointing, the presence of any existing damp-proof courses, and signs of damp penetration on internal walls.

The traditional lime mortars used in Cotswold properties allow the building to "breathe," a characteristic that is often compromised when modern cement-based repairs are undertaken. Our inspectors identify where this breathability has been compromised and advise on appropriate remediation. We also note the condition of traditional timber-framed windows and doors, which often feature in period properties throughout Shipton Moyne and may require renovation or repair.

Roofing in Shipton Moyne typically features the distinctive Cotswold stone slates, known as "delab" or "slate," which are heavier and more porous than Welsh slate. These traditional roof coverings require experienced assessment, as individual slates can become displaced or deteriorate over time. Our surveyors examine roof conditions from both inside the property (where accessible) and externally, providing detailed guidance on any remedial work needed to maintain weather tightness.

Properties in Shipton Moyne, given their age and traditional construction methods, frequently exhibit certain recurring defects that our inspectors identify during Level 2 Surveys. Damp penetration ranks among the most common issues, particularly in properties with solid stone walls where moisture can travel through the permeable masonry. Rising damp may be evident in ground floor rooms, especially where existing damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed in older properties. Our surveyors use visual indicators and moisture meters to assess the extent of any damp problems.

Timber defects represent another significant category of findings in Shipton Moyne's period housing stock. Woodworm infestation, wet rot, and dry rot can affect roof timbers, floor joists, and window frames, particularly where properties have experienced prolonged periods of damp or inadequate ventilation. Our inspectors examine accessible timber elements closely, noting any signs of deterioration that could require specialist treatment or structural repairs. This is particularly important in properties with original timber-framed windows that may have been overlooked during routine maintenance.

The traditional Cotswold stone slate roofs found on many properties in this area present their own maintenance challenges. Individual slates can become displaced or damaged over time, leading to water ingress and associated internal damage. Our surveyors assess roof conditions from both inside (where accessible) and external observation points, providing clear guidance on any remedial work required. We also examine the condition of chimney stacks, which are common on period properties and can suffer from weathering and mortar deterioration.

Electrical and plumbing systems in period properties often require careful assessment. Original wiring may not meet current regulations, and lead piping, which was commonly used in older properties, may still be present. Our survey provides commentary on the general condition of these services and recommends where a qualified electrician or plumber should be engaged for more detailed inspection. This is particularly relevant for properties that may have had minimal updating since construction.