RICS Level 2 Survey in Wiltshire

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying any defects or issues that could affect its value or require attention. We examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, roofs, and foundations, looking for signs of cracking, movement, or deterioration. The survey also covers the condition of doors, windows, and joinery, as well as the inspection of services such as plumbing, electrical systems, and heating. Our surveyors use their experience to spot issues that might be missed by less experienced inspectors, particularly in properties with unusual construction methods.

In Wiltshire's older properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in homes built before modern building regulations. We check for dampness in solid-walled Victorian and Edwardian properties, which are prevalent throughout the county's historic towns including Salisbury, Trowbridge, and Devizes. The lack of cavity walls and modern damp-proof courses in these older buildings means moisture can penetrate more easily, leading to condensation issues and potential timber decay. Our inspectors examine wall surfaces at low level for signs of rising damp, check skirting boards for rot, and assess whether existing damp-proof courses are functioning properly.

Roof conditions receive detailed inspection, especially on older properties with traditional slate or tile coverings that may have deteriorated over decades. Many properties in Wiltshire still have original clay tile or slate roofs from the 19th century, and while these can be visually attractive, they often require ongoing maintenance. We check for slipped or broken tiles, deteriorated ridge mortar, damaged flashings around chimneys, and signs of past water ingress into loft spaces. In rural areas of Wiltshire, thatched roofs are still common, and while these fall outside a standard Level 2 survey scope, we will note their condition and recommend specialist inspection where appropriate.

The survey report includes a clear rating system that categorises issues by severity, from urgent defects requiring immediate attention to recommendations for future maintenance. Each section of the report explains what we found, why it matters, and what action you might consider. We provide practical guidance specific to Wiltshire's housing stock, helping you understand how local geology and construction methods affect the property's condition. For example, properties in the Chippenham area built on Oxford Clay may show different movement patterns than those on limestone foundations near Bath.

• Wall and foundation inspection
• Roof and chimney assessment
• Damp and timber decay detection
• Electrical and plumbing review
• Windows and doors condition check
• Heating system inspection

Wiltshire's housing stock represents a fascinating mix of construction types reflecting the county's varied geology and rich history. In the north-west, properties are typically constructed from Jurassic limestone, with the famous Bath stone used for many prestigious buildings in areas around Calne and Lyneham. The famous Box Ground variety of Bath stone has been used in landmark buildings including Malmesbury Abbey and Longleat House. Poorer quality limestones such as ragstone from the Great Oolite and Forest Marble were used more commonly for cottages and farm buildings, meaning our surveyors see a variety of stone types across the county.

The south and east of the county feature more flint, chalk, and brick construction, with timber-framed buildings and thatched roofs common in rural villages around Aldbourne and the downland areas. From the 18th century, brick became increasingly important in Wiltshire, with small brickworks exploiting Oxford, Kimmeridge, Gault, and London Clays found across the county. In chalk areas like the Salisbury Plain region, bricks were used to dress flint or clunch walls, while in clay areas, red clay roof tiles became standard. This variety means that each property can present different challenges during a survey, and our surveyors understand these local construction traditions.

The county's geological diversity also means that some areas may have underlying clay soils that can cause foundation movement and subsidence issues. Our surveyors are trained to identify the signs of such problems, including cracking patterns, door and window misalignment, and uneven floor levels. Properties built on Oxford Clay or Kimmeridge Clay are particularly susceptible to shrink-swell movement, which can cause structural stress over time. With average property prices at £332,000 and semi-detached properties showing a 4.9% price increase in the last year, identifying any structural issues before completion could save you significant money in negotiation or future repair costs.

Many properties in Wiltshire date from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, when solid-wall construction was standard. These homes often lack modern damp-proof courses and cavity wall insulation, making them more susceptible to penetrating damp and rising damp. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for in these older properties, checking wall surfaces, skirting boards, and ground-level areas for signs of moisture ingress. We also assess the condition of traditional windows, which may need refurbishment or repair rather than replacement in conservation areas where planning restrictions apply. The presence of over 20,000 Grade II* listed buildings in England, many located in Wiltshire, underscores the county's rich architectural heritage.

Outdated electrical and plumbing systems are common concerns in Wiltshire's older properties. Many Victorian and Edwardian homes still have their original wiring, which may not meet current safety standards and could pose a fire risk. Similarly, lead pipework was commonly used until relatively recently, and while not immediately dangerous, it can affect water quality and may need replacement. Our surveyors check consumer units, wiring conditions, pipework materials, and the condition of heating systems to identify potential safety hazards that require attention from qualified electricians or plumbers.

Our team of RICS-qualified surveyors has extensive experience inspecting properties throughout Wiltshire, from city outskirts to rural villages. We understand the local housing market and the specific challenges that different property types present. buying a modern semi-detached house in Swindon, a period property in Salisbury, or a cottage in the Cotswolds area near Malmesbury, our surveyors have the knowledge to provide an accurate assessment of the property's condition.

All our surveyors are RICS registered and have undergone rigorous training to identify defects common to Wiltshire's housing stock. They stay up-to-date with the latest building techniques and regulations, including the requirements for properties in conservation areas and listed buildings. When you book a survey with us, you're getting the benefit of local expertise combined with the assurance of RICS standards.