RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey Skirlaugh

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition, focusing on all accessible areas of the building. Our inspectors examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, identifying any visible defects or areas requiring attention. The survey includes a thorough evaluation of the property's structural integrity, checking for signs of movement, damp penetration, or rot that could affect the building's long-term stability. We methodically work through each element of the property, documenting our findings with photographs and detailed notes that form the basis of your final report.

In Skirlaugh, where we see a predominance of brick-built properties dating from various periods, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of brickwork, mortar joints, and any signs of weathering or deterioration. The East Riding climate, with its fair share of rainfall and seasonal temperature changes, can accelerate wear on external brickwork and pointing. Our surveyors are trained to identify early signs of mortar erosion, frost damage to bricks, and potential water ingress that might not be immediately visible during a casual viewing.

We also assess essential services including plumbing, electrical systems, and heating installations, providing feedback on their current condition and any obvious safety concerns. Our inspectors will visually check the condition of consumer units, test a sample of sockets where safe to do so, and examine visible pipework for signs of leaks or corrosion. We note the age and condition of heating systems, whether they're modern combi boilers or older storage heaters, and flag any obvious concerns that warrant further investigation by specialists.

The report provides a clear condition rating system, from "good" to "urgent repairs required," helping you understand exactly what work may be needed now and what might become an issue in the future. Each element of the property receives one of three condition ratings, making it easy to prioritise any remedial work. We also include market valuation and insurance reinstatement figures, giving you additional financial context for your purchase decision.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows and doors
• Damp and moisture detection
• Electrical installations
• Plumbing and heating systems
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Skirlaugh's housing stock reflects its position as a village in the East Riding, with a mix of property ages and styles that presents varied considerations for our surveyors. Semi-detached properties represent a significant portion of the local market, with median prices around £245,000, while detached family homes command premium prices approaching £350,000. Terraced properties offer more affordable options, typically selling between £126,000 and £129,000, making them popular first-time buyer choices in the area.

Our inspectors understand the typical construction methods used in East Yorkshire properties, particularly the brick construction prevalent in the area. We assess the condition of mortar joints, which can deteriorate over time, particularly in older properties exposed to the elements. The region's climate, with its fair share of rainfall, makes damp assessment a particularly important element of any survey in Skirlaugh. We've found that properties in low-lying areas of the village can be more susceptible to damp issues, especially those with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction.

Properties in Skirlaugh may date from different periods, each bringing their own typical issues that our surveyors know to look for. Older properties may have outdated electrical systems, original windows requiring replacement, or historic damp problems that have been temporarily masked rather than properly addressed. Many homes built in the mid-to-late 20th century in this area feature concrete foundations, which can be affected by sulphate attack or carbonation over time. Newer builds, while potentially having fewer structural concerns, may still have defects in fixtures, fittings, or construction quality that our detailed inspection will identify.

• Brickwork condition and mortar deterioration
• Damp proof course effectiveness
• Window and door operation
• Roof covering age and condition
• Electrical safety compliance
• Heating system efficiency

Based on our extensive experience surveying properties throughout the Skirlaugh area, we've identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of before purchasing. Damp penetration ranks among the most common problems we encounter, particularly in properties with solid brick walls that lack cavity insulation. The East Riding climate, characterised by persistent moisture and temperature fluctuations, can exacerbate damp issues even in properties that appear well-maintained at first glance.

Roof condition is another area where we frequently identify concerns during our Skirlaugh surveys. Many properties in the area have roofs that are approaching or have exceeded their expected lifespan, with slipped tiles, deteriorating felt, and degraded ridge tiles being common findings. We thoroughly inspect roof spaces where accessible, checking for signs of past or current leaks, inadequate ventilation, and timber condition that could indicate ongoing moisture problems.

Structural movement, while less common, does appear in some Skirlaugh properties and warrants careful investigation. Properties built on clay soils can be susceptible to subsidence as the ground moisture content changes with the seasons, particularly where trees or large shrubs are positioned close to the building. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of movement such as cracking to walls, door and window operation issues, and floors that may indicate underlying structural concerns.

Electrical safety is a further priority in our surveys, with many Skirlaugh properties still containing outdated consumer units, insufficient socket outlets, and wiring that does not meet current regulations. Properties with original electrical installations from the 1960s or earlier often require complete rewiring before they meet modern safety standards, a significant cost that buyers should factor into their purchase considerations.