RICS Level 2 Survey in Strixton

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a detailed inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects that could affect its value or require costly repairs. We examine the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, dampness levels, and the condition of key services such as plumbing and electrical installations. For Strixton's older properties, this is particularly valuable given the prevalence of traditional construction methods using local stone and brick that may require specialist assessment.

The survey includes a clear traffic light rating system that highlights urgent defects in red, issues requiring attention in amber, and satisfactory elements in green. You will receive a comprehensive written report typically within 3-5 working days of the inspection, giving you the information needed to make an informed decision about your purchase or renegotiate the price if significant issues are found.

Strixton's housing stock includes a mix of historic cottages, converted barns and farm buildings, and period residences that often feature traditional construction elements. Our surveyors understand the specific issues affecting these older properties, including the potential for damp penetration in solid-wall construction, aging roof structures, and the condition of historic timber windows and doors. The Level 2 survey is suitable for properties of any age but provides particular value for those purchasing older homes in this rural village.

We check all accessible areas of the property systematically, including the roof space where accessible, the exterior walls, windows and doors, interior joinery, and the condition of any outbuildings or boundaries. Our surveyors also look at the grounds around the property, noting any trees that might affect the structure or any issues with drainage that are particularly relevant given the meadowland setting of many Strixton properties.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber decay assessment
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Strixton's properties reflect the village's long history, with many homes built using traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern building techniques. The predominant building materials include local stone and brick, as seen in St Rumwold's Church, a 13th-century structure rebuilt in 1873 that showcases Early English architecture. This traditional approach to construction means that many homes in the village have solid walls rather than the cavity walls found in newer properties, which can affect insulation performance and damp resistance.

The age of properties in Strixton means that many were built with shallow foundations, which can be more susceptible to movement on the clay soils common throughout Northamptonshire. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying signs of subsidence or structural movement, including cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors or windows that no longer close properly. We assess whether any movement is ongoing or historic, and we recommend appropriate action if further investigation is needed.

Many of the village's older properties retain their original timber-framed construction and handmade clay roof tiles. These features add character to Strixton homes but require ongoing maintenance to prevent issues such as wet rot, dry rot, and woodworm infestation. Our surveyors inspect all accessible timber elements carefully, checking for signs of decay that could compromise the structural integrity of the property. We also note the condition of historic windows, which may be single-glazed and contribute to higher energy costs.

Properties in Strixton face several area-specific challenges that our surveyors know to look for. The village's rural setting and proximity to meadowland and streams can create damp-related issues, particularly in properties with solid walls that lack modern cavity insulation. The older construction methods used in the village's historic cottages and farm buildings often result in single-glazed windows and limited insulation, leading to higher energy costs and potential condensation problems.

The age of many properties in Strixton means that roofing systems may be original or have been repaired using matching traditional materials. We assess the condition of roof tiles, flashings, and supporting structures, noting any signs of wear, leakage, or previous repairs. Given the village's agricultural heritage, some properties may include converted barns or outbuildings that present unique construction challenges, including the potential presence of asbestos in older farm structures that were built before modern safety regulations.

Electrical and plumbing systems in period properties often require updating to meet current safety standards. We check the condition of consumer units, wiring, pipework, and water pressure, identifying any potential fire risks or leak issues. Our surveyors also look for signs of structural movement, cracks in walls, or uneven floors that could indicate subsidence or foundation issues, which can affect properties on clay soils in Northamptonshire.

The proximity of many Strixton properties to water courses and meadowland means that we pay particular attention to potential flood risk and drainage issues. While the village itself does not have significant flood history, properties near streams or in low-lying areas may be susceptible to surface water flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. We assess the effectiveness of existing drainage systems and note any concerns that may require further investigation.

• Damp penetration in solid-wall construction
• Aging roof structures and tiles
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Limited insulation and single-glaze windows
• Structural movement or subsidence
• Timber decay in period features
• Potential asbestos in converted barns
• Surface water and drainage issues