RICS Level 2 Survey in Sollers Hope

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's condition, focusing on all major accessible areas including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and integral fixtures. We examine the visible structure of the building, identifying any defects, damage, or areas requiring immediate attention. Our inspectors specifically assess elements relevant to Sollers Hope's older properties, including the condition of traditional sandstone walls, timber-framed sections, and original roofing materials that characterize many homes in this village.

The survey includes a thorough evaluation of dampness, which is particularly important given Sollers Hope's older housing stock. Our inspectors use professional moisture meters to detect both rising damp and penetrating damp, common issues in solid-walled properties built before modern damp-proof courses were introduced. We also inspect roof spaces where accessible, checking for damaged tiles, deteriorating ridge mortar, and the condition of flashings around chimneys and roof windows.

Beyond structural elements, we assess the condition of visible electrical and plumbing installations, examining consumer units, wiring routes, and pipework that may be visible in accessible areas. Our surveyors note the condition of windows and doors, checking operation, seals, and the presence of any double-glazing that might be original to the property. We also examine outbuildings, boundaries, and drainage systems that form part of the property's overall condition.

The survey report uses the RICS traffic light rating system, clearly indicating where issues range from acceptable condition through to urgent defects requiring immediate attention. Each section of the report explains what we found, why it matters, and what action we recommend, helping you prioritise any remedial work identified during the inspection.

• Visible signs of damp or moisture damage
• Condition of roof covering and flashings
• Wall structure and visible cracking
• Window and door operation and condition
• Electrical and plumbing visible installations
• Drainage and guttering condition

The village of Sollers Hope contains numerous historic properties dating back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, representing a significant portion of the local housing stock. These older homes require particular attention during survey inspections because they were built using traditional methods that differ substantially from modern construction. Solid walls, original timber frames, and historic building materials all present unique challenges that our surveyors are trained to assess accurately. The presence of sandstone rubble walls, as seen in properties like Hurstans farmhouse, requires specialist understanding of traditional building techniques.

Properties in Sollers Hope commonly feature rendered external walls, which can mask underlying structural issues if not carefully examined. Our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of render, checking for cracks, bulges, or areas of detachment that might indicate moisture penetration or structural movement. Timber-framed elements, visible in properties such as Lyndalls, demand inspection for signs of rot, woodworm, or structural alteration that could affect the building's integrity. With many homes in the village exceeding 100 years old, our survey provides essential information for purchasers.

The rural setting of Sollers Hope also brings specific considerations for property condition. Agricultural influences in the surrounding area mean that properties may have historically been used for mixed farming purposes, potentially affecting outbuildings or conversions. Our surveyors note any non-traditional construction methods or modifications that might require further specialist investigation. We provide clear, actionable recommendations that help you understand exactly what you're purchasing and any financial implications of identified defects.

The village's proximity to St Michael's Church, a Grade II* listed building, indicates the historical significance of the area and suggests that many surrounding properties may have historic entitlements or restrictions affecting renovation possibilities. Our surveyors understand these considerations and can flag any issues that might affect your plans for the property.

Properties in Sollers Hope reflect the traditional building techniques that have shaped Herefordshire's rural villages over centuries. The predominant construction materials include sandstone rubble, which forms the walls of many historic properties including the Grade II listed Hurstans farmhouse. This local sandstone, typically sourced from nearby quarries, provides both character and challenges, as the permeable nature of the stone can contribute to damp issues if not properly maintained.

Timber-framing represents another significant construction element in the village, with properties like Lyndalls showcasing traditional oak frames with painted brick infill and sandstone plinths. These timber-framed structures require particular attention during survey inspections, as the structural timbers can be susceptible to rot and woodworm damage, especially where previous damp issues have gone untreated. Our surveyors inspect accessible timber elements thoroughly, looking for signs of decay that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Render finishes are common on external walls throughout Sollers Hope, applied over both solid stone walls and timber-framed structures. While render provides weather protection, it can also conceal underlying defects such as cracks, bulging, or moisture penetration that our inspectors know to look for. We examine render conditions carefully, noting any areas where the finish has failed or separated from the substrate, as these defects can allow water ingress that leads to more serious structural problems.

Traditional roofing materials in the area include slate and clay tiles, with many period properties featuring original or replacement roof coverings that may be several decades old. The condition of these roofs varies significantly depending on maintenance history, and our surveyors assess tile condition, ridge stability, and flashing integrity during every inspection. Understanding these local construction methods helps us provide accurate, relevant assessments for Sollers Hope property buyers.

Our experience surveying properties throughout Herefordshire means we know exactly what defects are most commonly encountered in villages like Sollers Hope. Dampness ranks among the most frequently identified issues, particularly in older properties with solid walls that lack modern cavity construction. Penetrating damp occurs when water enters through damaged render, missing roof tiles, or deteriorated flashings, while rising damp affects ground-floor walls where damp-proof courses may be absent or damaged. The sandstone rubble construction common in the area is particularly porous and can allow moisture to penetrate during periods of prolonged rainfall.

Roof defects are another major finding in Sollers Hope surveys. Many period properties feature traditional roof constructions with slate or clay tiles that deteriorate over time. We commonly find slipped or cracked tiles, degraded ridge pointing, and failed flashings around chimneys and roof windows. These issues can lead to significant water ingress if not addressed promptly, potentially causing extensive damage to internal ceilings and walls. Given the age of many properties in the village, roofs may also contain original mortar that has dried out and crumbled, reducing weather resistance.

Timber defects deserve particular attention given the prevalence of timber-framed construction in the area. Woodworm activity, wet rot, and dry rot can all affect structural timbers, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or previous damp problems. Our surveyors inspect accessible timber elements including ceiling joists, roof rafters, and floor joists, noting any evidence of decay or insect activity that might require specialist treatment. The oak timbers used in traditional framing, while durable, can still be affected by long-term moisture exposure or inadequate treatment.

Outdated electrical installations and plumbing systems frequently appear in our Sollers Hope surveys. Many older properties retain original wiring that does not meet current safety standards, and we note any visible electrical deficiencies during our inspection. Similarly, lead pipes or outdated plumbing fittings may be present in properties that haven't been modernised. These issues often require updating before the property can be considered safe for modern living standards. Our reports clearly flag any electrical or plumbing concerns so you can budget for necessary upgrades.

Structural movement and cracking can affect older properties, particularly those built on traditional shallow foundations. While minor settlement cracks are common in period properties, our surveyors distinguish between acceptable hairline cracks and more serious structural issues that require further investigation. We assess crack patterns, width, and location to determine whether movement is active and whether structural engineer involvement is recommended.