RICS Level 2 Survey in Tongham

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the property, examining the condition of the walls, roof, foundations, and structural elements. The surveyor will assess the exterior of the building including the roof covering, chimneys, gutters, and external walls, while also checking the interior condition of ceilings, walls, floors, doors, and windows. In Tongham's older properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to potential issues with traditional construction methods and materials that may differ from modern building standards.

The survey includes a detailed assessment of the property's services, examining the condition of electrical installations, plumbing, heating, and drainage systems. We check that these essential services are functioning safely and are appropriately installed, identifying any work that may not meet current regulations or that requires attention. For properties in Tongham, this is particularly relevant given the mix of older homes that may have had various alterations over the years.

Our report includes clear condition ratings for each element inspected, ranging from satisfactory to urgent repairs needed. We provide practical advice on any defects discovered, explaining their implications and recommending appropriate next steps. The report also highlights any legal issues that may affect the property, including any matters you may wish to discuss with your solicitor before completing the purchase.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and chimneys
• Windows and doors
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing and drainage
• Insulation and damp proofing
• External finishes

Tongham's housing stock presents a diverse mix of property types that our surveyors regularly inspect. The village has grown significantly in recent years with new developments adding to the traditional housing stock. According to 2011 Census data for the Tongham Civil Parish, the housing breakdown included approximately 244 detached properties, 290 semi-detached homes, 314 terraced houses, and 144 flats and apartments. This variety means that buyers need a survey that can adapt to different construction methods and property ages.

The area features several Grade II listed buildings, including historic properties like the Barn 20 Yards South West of Manor Farm House, Cyclops Cottage, and The Old Farmhouse. If you are considering purchasing a listed property in Tongham, our standard RICS Level 2 survey may need to be supplemented with more detailed investigation, as listed buildings often require specialist assessments due to their historical significance and traditional construction methods.

New developments in the area include Manor Farm on The Street, where Taylor Wimpey has submitted plans for up to 420 new homes, as well as established developments like Hedgeways offering 2, 3, and 4-bedroom homes, and Fuggle Hop Close providing modern detached and semi-detached properties. Even new builds can benefit from a Level 2 survey, as our inspectors can identify any defects in recently constructed properties and verify that the development meets expected standards.

With a population of 2,351 residents across 1,011 households according to the 2021 Census, Tongham continues to attract buyers seeking a balance of rural character and good transport links. The village's proximity to Aldershot and Farnham, combined with its growing amenities, makes it an attractive location for families and professionals alike. Our surveyors understand that buying in Tongham often represents a significant investment, and we are committed to helping you make an informed decision.

Our experience inspecting properties throughout Tongham has revealed several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Many of the older properties in the village, particularly those along The Street and near the historic centre, were built using traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern building standards. These properties may have solid walls rather than cavity walls, which can be more susceptible to damp if not properly maintained.

Properties in Tongham that predate modern building regulations may have outdated electrical systems that require updating to meet current safety standards. We frequently find that electrical installations in homes built before the 1990s do not comply with the latest regulations, and our survey will highlight any concerns that need attention from a qualified electrician.

Given the local geology and soil conditions in parts of Surrey, some properties may be affected by shrink-swell clay movement, particularly where trees are present near foundations. Our surveyors inspect for signs of movement or subsidence and will advise if further investigation is needed. The flood risk concerns raised by the Parish Council are also taken into account during our inspections, particularly for properties in lower-lying areas or those near watercourses.

Your RICS Level 2 survey report is designed to be clear and easy to understand, avoiding unnecessary technical jargon while still providing comprehensive information about the property condition. The report uses a traffic light system to rate the condition of different elements, with red indicating areas requiring urgent attention, amber for defects that need attention but are not urgent, and green for satisfactory condition.

Each section of the report provides a detailed description of what our surveyor found, including the likely cause of any problems and the potential implications for you as the buyer. We also provide practical recommendations for addressing any issues discovered, whether this involves obtaining quotes for repairs, requesting the seller to carry out work before completion, or negotiating a reduction in the purchase price.

For properties in Tongham, our reports commonly highlight issues related to the age and construction of the property. Older properties may have outdated electrical systems that require updating, while properties with solid walls may need advice on insulation and damp management. Our surveyors are familiar with the typical issues found in Surrey properties and can provide relevant, practical advice that reflects the local housing stock.