RICS Level 2 Survey in Skillington

A RICS Level 2 survey, formerly known as a HomeBuyer Survey, provides a detailed assessment of a property's visible condition without the invasive investigations of a full structural survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp levels. The survey uses a clear condition rating system ranging from condition rating 1 (no repairs needed) to condition rating 3 (urgent repairs required), giving you a straightforward understanding of any issues.

For properties in Skillington's Conservation Area, many of which feature traditional limestone construction and historic elements, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of older building materials. We check for signs of damp in traditional stone walls, assess the condition of pantile roofs, and evaluate any previous repairs or alterations that may affect the property's integrity. The report includes clear photographs and descriptions of any defects found, along with recommended actions and estimated repair costs where appropriate.

The Level 2 survey is particularly suitable for conventional properties in reasonable condition, including the semi-detached and detached homes that make up much of Skillington's housing stock. With the average property price sitting around £316,500, a thorough survey helps protect your investment by identifying any hidden issues before you commit to the purchase. Our reports typically include a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost, giving you complete information about the property's worth.

Our surveyors specifically look for issues that commonly affect properties in this region of Lincolnshire, including the condition of traditional drainage systems, the state of older electrical installations that may not meet current regulations, and any signs of movement in the limestone walls. We understand that the local geology can affect how buildings settle over time, and our reports reflect this local knowledge. The condition rating system allows you to quickly identify which issues require immediate attention and which can be monitored over time.

• Roof and chimney condition
• Wall structure and damp assessment
• Window and door condition
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Floor and ceiling condition
• Preservation of historic features

Properties in Skillington showcase the traditional building methods that have defined this part of Lincolnshire for centuries. The local geology provides excellent limestone, which features prominently in the village's architecture, most notably in the Grade I listed St James' Church. Our surveyors understand how these traditional materials behave over time and can identify issues specific to older limestone constructions, such as mortar deterioration, water penetration through porous stone, and the effects of settlement in historic buildings.

Many homes in Skillington feature coursed limestone walling with clay pantile roofs, a combination that requires specific maintenance considerations. Our inspectors assess the condition of roof tiles, check for slipped or damaged pantiles, and evaluate the pointing between limestone blocks. Traditional timber sash windows, another common feature in the village, are inspected for operational condition, draught proofing, and any signs of rot or decay in the timber frames.

The village's housing stock includes properties from various periods, and our Level 2 surveys are designed to address the specific concerns associated with different property ages. While the survey is ideally suited to properties built between 1950 and 2020, it also provides valuable information about older properties, flagging any areas where a more detailed RICS Level 3 survey might be advisable. Our surveyors provide clear recommendations based on what they observe, ensuring you understand the scope of any issues identified.

The Conservation Area, designated in 1990 and reviewed in 2016, encompasses much of the built-up part of the village with its strong historic character. Properties within this area may be subject to specific planning constraints, and our surveyors note any features that might affect future renovations or alterations. The presence of unlisted buildings that make a positive contribution to the Conservation Area is also noted in our reports, as these properties often require careful consideration when planning any works.

Properties in Skillington, particularly those of traditional construction, can present specific issues that our surveyors are trained to identify. The local limestone, while durable, can suffer from mortar joint deterioration over time, especially in properties exposed to prevailing weather patterns. Our inspectors carefully examine the pointing between limestone blocks, looking for signs of erosion or gaps that could allow water ingress.

Pantile roofs, common throughout the village, require particular attention as the clay tiles can become brittle with age and may crack or slip over time. Our surveyors assess the overall roof condition, checking for any missing or damaged tiles, and evaluate the condition of the supporting timber structure where accessible. In properties where internal access is limited, we make every effort to examine the roof from ground level using binoculars and other equipment.

Traditional timber sash windows, while charming, often suffer from issues related to their age and exposure to the elements. Our inspectors check for signs of rot in the timber frames, assess the operation of the sash cords and weights, and evaluate the effectiveness of any draught proofing that has been installed. These features are common in properties along Church Street and Grantham Road, where many homes retain their original windows.

Damp is a common concern in older properties with solid walls, and our surveys include thorough assessments of damp levels throughout the property. We use professional moisture meters to identify areas of elevated moisture and can distinguish between rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation. Given the solid wall construction common in traditional Skillington properties, understanding the type and cause of any damp present is essential for planning appropriate remediation.