RICS Level 2 Survey in Wallingwells

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. Our surveyors examine the exterior of the building, looking for signs of subsidence, damp penetration, roof damage, and deteriorating masonry. Inside, we check the condition of walls, ceilings, and floors, paying particular attention to areas prone to damp or structural movement. The survey also includes an assessment of any outbuildings, garages, and the general condition of the property's boundaries. We use a visual inspection methodology that follows RICS standards, meaning we examine what is visible and accessible without moving furniture or disturbing finishes.

In Wallingwells, where many properties are of considerable age, we pay special attention to the common issues affecting older buildings. This includes checking for timber decay, rising damp, and the condition of historic features. The survey report includes a clear traffic light rating system, with red indicating serious issues requiring urgent attention, amber for defects that need future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. Each section of the report includes practical advice on maintenance and remediation, helping you budget for any necessary works after purchase. We know that our clients need clear, actionable information, not technical jargon, which is why we structure our reports to be as accessible as possible.

The RICS Level 2 Survey is particularly suitable for properties in Wallingwells that were built after 1950 and are of conventional construction. However, if you are considering purchasing a historic property such as Wallingwells Hall or other listed buildings in the area, we may recommend a more comprehensive RICS Level 3 Building Survey. Our team will advise you on the most appropriate survey type based on the property's age, construction, and unique characteristics. We never push you towards a more expensive survey if a Level 2 is appropriate, but we will always be honest about when a deeper inspection might be worthwhile.

• Structural elements
• Roof condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Boundary and outbuildings
• Energy efficiency indicators

Properties in Wallingwells, particularly those of traditional construction, often exhibit specific defects that our surveyors regularly identify during Level 2 inspections. Given the rural character of the area and the age of many properties, damp is one of the most common issues we encounter. This can manifest as rising damp affecting ground floor walls, penetrating damp from damaged roof coverings or defective pointing, or condensation issues in poorly ventilated areas. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify the type and cause of damp, distinguishing between minor condensation problems and more serious structural moisture ingress. In older properties, we often find that original lime-based mortars have been replaced with cement mortar, which can trap moisture and cause problems.

Timber defects represent another significant area of concern in Wallingwells properties. Many homes in the area feature traditional timber-framed construction or contain significant wooden elements that can be affected by rot or woodworm infestation. Our surveyors inspect all visible and accessible timber elements, including floor joists, roof rafters, window frames, and door frames. Where evidence of timber decay is found, the report provides clear guidance on the extent of the problem and recommended remediation measures. The presence of historic buildings in the area, including properties associated with Wallingwells Hall, means that our surveyors are well-versed in assessing the condition of traditional building materials and can advise on appropriate conservation approaches.

Roofing problems are frequently identified in our Wallingwells inspections, particularly on period properties with original roof coverings. Tiles and slates can become brittle with age, leading to slippage and water ingress. We carefully examine the roof structure, checking for signs of past repairs, deteriorated leadwork, and any structural deflection that might indicate underlying issues. Flat roofs on extensions and garages are another common source of problems, as the membranes age and crack. Our report will clearly identify any roof-related issues and provide guidance on the urgency of repairs needed.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Wallingwells properties often require attention. Many homes in the area will have original wiring that does not meet current regulations, and consumer units may be outdated or non-compliant. We visually assess the condition of electrical installations where accessible and note any obvious concerns. For plumbing, we check the condition of visible pipework, looking for signs of corrosion, leaks, or outdated materials. While we do not test electrical or plumbing systems, we will flag any visible concerns that should be investigated by a qualified electrician or plumber before completion.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Roof deterioration and tile loss
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Structural movement and settlement
• Windows and door condition

Wallingwells is home to a diverse range of property types, from modern homes built in the late 20th century to historic properties dating back to the 17th century. The village's architectural heritage includes substantial Georgian and Victorian properties alongside more modest terraced cottages. Understanding the construction methods used in these different eras is essential for identifying potential defects, and our surveyors bring this knowledge to every inspection we undertake in the area.

Many properties in Wallingwells are constructed from traditional solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls. Solid walls have no cavity to provide insulation or moisture resistance, which means they are more susceptible to damp penetration and have poorer thermal performance. Our surveyors understand these construction characteristics and know what to look for when assessing the condition of solid wall properties. We will identify any signs of damp ingress and provide practical advice on how to address ventilation and moisture issues.

The historic properties in Wallingwells, particularly those around Wallingwells Lane and near the village centre, often feature traditional building materials that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. Lime mortar, for example, was commonly used in older properties but has different properties to modern cement mortar. Our surveyors understand these traditional materials and can advise on appropriate repair and maintenance approaches that will not damage the historic character of the property. This local knowledge is invaluable when assessing properties in an area with such rich architectural heritage.