RICS Level 2 Survey in Weston-on-the-Green

The village of Weston-on-the-Green presents a diverse housing stock that makes professional surveys particularly valuable. With properties ranging from 16th-century cottages to 18th-century houses and 300-year-old barn conversions, the potential for hidden defects is significant. Our RICS Level 2 surveys specifically address the concerns that affect Oxfordshire properties, including damp penetration common in older stone buildings, roof condition issues on period properties, and outdated electrical systems that frequently require updating. We have inspected numerous properties along the village's historic lanes and around the conservation area, giving us firsthand experience with the common issues affecting local homes.

Many properties in Weston-on-the-Green feature traditional stone construction, which while aesthetically pleasing, can hide structural movement or subsidence issues that only an experienced surveyor would identify. The village sits near flood plain areas to the west, and our inspectors pay particular attention to drainage and flood risk factors during every survey. With 62.5% of recent sales being detached properties, larger homes with complex roofs and multiple extensions are prevalent in the local market. We examine properties throughout the village, from those near the historic village stocks on the B430 to homes along North Lane and the surrounding countryside.

The presence of 33 listed buildings in Weston-on-the-Green, including St Mary's Church and Weston Manor at Grade II*, means that many purchasers will be acquiring properties with historical restrictions or unique construction methods. Our surveyors understand these complexities and provide detailed advice on maintenance requirements and any implications for future modifications. The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive overview that highlights urgent issues while also identifying problems that may require attention over time. We also check for issues affecting properties in the conservation area, where planning restrictions may limit future modifications.

With recent new-build activity in the area, including plans for five new homes near North Lane submitted by Manorwood Homes in February 2025, we also see a growing number of modern properties requiring survey attention. Even new homes benefit from our detailed inspections, as we can identify snagging issues, construction defects, or problems with fittings that may not be apparent during a casual viewing. Our experience with both period properties and newer constructions in the OX25 area ensures we can provide comprehensive advice regardless of the property type.

• Identify structural defects
• Assess roof and wall condition
• Check for damp and timber decay
• Evaluate plumbing and electrical systems
• Review conservation area implications
• Highlight urgent repair requirements
• Assess flood risk from nearby flood plains
• Evaluate older stone construction issues

Properties in Weston-on-the-Green face several common issues that our RICS Level 2 surveys frequently identify. The older housing stock, including buildings dating from the 16th and 18th centuries, often exhibits rising damp due to failed or non-existent damp courses. Stone walls, while durable, can suffer from mortar deterioration and water penetration, particularly during Oxfordshire's wet winters. Our surveyors inspect all accessible walls, floors, and ceilings, using their expertise to identify signs of damp that may not be visible to the untrained eye. We have found that properties along the older parts of the village, particularly those near St Mary's Church and Weston Manor, frequently require careful assessment of their traditional construction methods.

Roof conditions represent another significant area of concern in this village. Many properties feature traditional slate or tile roofing that has exceeded its expected lifespan. Missing tiles, damaged flashing, and deteriorated ridge tiles are common findings that our inspectors report. For barn conversions, the combination of traditional timber frames and modern conversions can create unique challenges, including potential issues with insulation, ventilation, and the integration of old and new materials. Our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of roofs on the older farmhouses such as Knowle Farmhouse and Southfield Farmhouse, where traditional roofing materials may be approaching the end of their serviceable life.

Electrical systems in period properties frequently require attention. Rewiring may be necessary if the existing installation dates from the 1970s or earlier. Our survey reports highlight the age and condition of consumer units, wiring, and socket outlets, recommending further investigation by a qualified electrician where appropriate. Similarly, plumbing systems in older homes may feature galvanized pipes that are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure. Given the age of much of the housing stock in Weston-on-the-Green, we often recommend that buyers obtain a qualified electrician's assessment before completion.

Flood risk is a consideration for properties in Weston-on-the-Green, particularly those near the flood plain to the west of the village. The Neighbourhood Plan identifies these areas, and our inspectors pay particular attention to drainage, ground conditions, and any signs of water damage or previous flooding. We look for water marks, damaged plasterwork, and other indicators that may suggest a property has been affected by flooding. For properties in lower-lying areas, we recommend checking the specific flood risk and ensuring that appropriate drainage is in place. The geological conditions in the area, as identified in the Neighbourhood Plan's baseline surveys, can also affect how properties perform in terms of ground movement and subsidence.

Much of Weston-on-the-Green falls within the designated conservation area, which is recognised for its special architectural and historic interest. If you are purchasing a property within the conservation area, there are additional planning considerations to bear in mind. Our survey reports highlight any issues that may affect the character or heritage value of a property, and we provide guidance on whether defects have implications for building regulations or listed building consent. Understanding these restrictions is essential before planning any alterations or improvements to your property.

With 33 listed buildings in the village, including two Grade II* structures, many properties in Weston-on-the-Green are subject to listed building regulations. St Mary's Church and Weston Manor represent the most significant historical buildings, but numerous cottages throughout the village also carry listed status. Our surveyors understand the implications of purchasing a listed property, including the need for specialist consents for many types of work. We provide practical advice on what to expect when maintaining or improving a historic property, helping you budget for the additional costs that often come with heritage properties.

For properties that are listed or of non-standard construction, we may recommend a RICS Level 3 Building Survey instead of a Level 2. The Level 3 provides a more comprehensive structural analysis that is particularly valuable for older buildings with complex histories or unusual construction methods. Many of the barn conversions in Weston-on-the-Green, for example, combine traditional timber frames with modern materials in ways that benefit from the more detailed inspection a Level 3 survey provides. We can advise you on which survey level is most appropriate for your specific property.