RICS Level 2 Survey in Stretton en le Field

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of your potential property. Our surveyor will examine the roof structure, walls, floors, doors, windows, damp proofing, and insulation. We check the condition of plumbing and electrical installations where visible, assess the state of any garages or outbuildings, and evaluate the overall condition of the property from foundation to roof. For properties in Stretton en le Field, this includes checking the condition of traditional brickwork and stone features common to rural Leicestershire homes, as well as assessing any modern conversion elements found in barn conversions that have become popular in the area.

The survey uses a simple traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Green ratings mean no repair is currently needed, amber indicates defects that require attention but are not serious, and red flags issues that are either serious or require urgent repair. This clear system helps you understand exactly what you are purchasing and prioritises any work that may be needed after completion. Our surveyor will also provide professional advice on each defect, explaining the potential implications and recommended next steps.

Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, the RICS Level 2 Survey specifically looks for defects that could affect the value or safety of the property. Our surveyor will identify issues such as signs of damp, timber decay, structural movement, or roofing problems that may not be visible during a casual viewing. For properties in Stretton en le Field, we pay particular attention to the condition of older roofs, the state of any septic tanks or private drainage systems common in rural areas, and the integrity of walls given the local geology that may present shrink-swell risks in clay soils.

We inspect every accessible area of the property, including the roof space where safe access is possible, under-floor voids, and any outbuildings or garages. Our chartered surveyors are trained to spot the subtle signs of potential problems that a non-professional might miss, from hairline cracks in walls that could indicate movement to staining that suggests ongoing damp issues. This thorough approach ensures you receive the most accurate picture of the property condition available.

Stretton en le Field is a small rural village in North West Leicestershire, characterised by a mix of traditional and modern residential properties. The housing stock includes substantial detached homes, period properties with character features, and a number of barn conversions that have transformed agricultural buildings into desirable residential properties in recent years. The DE12 postcode area has seen several high-value sales, with Church View Barns on Measham Road achieving prices up to £900,000, reflecting the premium nature of well-presented rural properties in this area. The village offers a peaceful rural lifestyle while remaining accessible to larger towns and cities in the region.

Many properties in this rural Leicestershire village date back several decades or centuries, meaning they may have underlying issues that only a professional survey can uncover. From outdated electrical systems to aging roof structures, our detailed inspection ensures you are fully aware of the property condition before committing to your purchase. This is particularly important when investing in character properties that may require sympathetic maintenance or restoration work. The rural setting also means many properties rely on private water supplies or septic tanks rather than mains connections, which require specific checks.

When surveying properties in Stretton en le Field, our chartered surveyors pay particular attention to issues common to rural Leicestershire homes. These include the condition of private drainage systems, as many properties in the village are not connected to mains sewage and rely on septic tanks or treatment plants. We also check the condition of traditional roofing materials, which may include clay tiles or stone slate that require specific maintenance knowledge. The age of properties in the area means that insulation standards may fall below current Building Regulations requirements, something our survey will flag if identified.

Given the local geology that includes clay soils, our surveyors are alert to any signs of subsidence or ground movement that could affect foundations. While no specific mining or historical subsidence issues were identified in our research for Stretton en le Field, rural properties can occasionally present challenges related to tree roots, drainage, or settlement that our inspection will assess. For barn conversions, we pay particular attention to the quality of the conversion work, checking that structural alterations have been properly carried out and that any modern extensions meet current standards.

Our experience surveying properties in and around Stretton en le Field has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Older properties in the area often have outdated electrical installations that do not meet current safety standards, with wiring that may date back several decades. We frequently find that consumer units and wiring in period properties require updating, something our survey will identify and flag for further investigation by a qualified electrician.

Roof conditions are another common area of concern, particularly on older properties where traditional clay or stone slate tiles may have deteriorated over time. We often find slipped tiles, damaged flashing, and worn ridge tiles that can lead to water ingress if not addressed. For barn conversions, we pay close attention to the quality of the conversion work, checking that structural alterations were properly designed and that the conversion meets current building regulations.

Given the rural nature of Stretton en le Field, private drainage systems are frequently encountered. Many properties in the area rely on septic tanks or treatment plants rather than mains sewage connections. These systems require regular maintenance and may need upgrading to meet current environmental standards. Our survey will assess the condition of any private drainage systems and flag any concerns that may require further investigation by a specialist.

Damp issues are relatively common in older properties, particularly those with solid walls rather than modern cavity wall construction. Rising damp and penetrating damp can cause significant damage if left untreated, and our survey will identify any signs of dampness, along with recommendations for appropriate remedial work. We also check for signs of timber decay, including rot in window frames, door frames, and structural timber elements.