RICS Level 2 Survey Winterborne St. Martin

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We assess the overall condition of the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and permanent fixtures. The survey includes an evaluation of any visible signs of dampness, which is a common concern in older properties throughout Dorset, particularly those constructed with solid walls or featuring traditional lime mortar pointing that may have deteriorated over time. Our surveyors use moisture meters and thermal imaging equipment where appropriate to identify hidden damp issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.

Given that a high proportion of properties in Winterborne St. Martin date from the pre-1919 period, our surveyors pay particular attention to roof conditions. Many homes in this area feature traditional slate, clay tile, or thatched roofing materials, all of which require specialist knowledge to assess accurately. We check for slipped tiles, deteriorating mortar, failed roofing felt, and any signs of timber rot or woodworm activity in roof voids where accessible. Thatched roofs, while beautiful, require particular expertise as deterioration can be hidden beneath the reed layers.

The inspection also covers the property's services, including electrical and plumbing installations visible for inspection. We note any obvious non-compliance with current regulations or obvious safety concerns. Our surveyor will also examine the property's foundations and any visible structural movement, particularly important in this area where some properties sit on Reading Beds or London Clay, which can present moderate shrink-swell risks during periods of extreme weather. Properties with large trees nearby, particularly those with mature sycamore or oak trees, require careful foundation assessment.

We also assess the property's drainage systems, including guttering, downpipes, and any visible drainage runs. Given the local geology and the village's proximity to the Winterborne stream, we pay attention to drainage efficiency and any signs of surface water flooding or damp issues that may relate to the property's position in the landscape. Our report will highlight any areas where water management may require attention.

• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Roof, loft space, and chimney stacks
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors, ceilings, and staircases
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Outbuildings and boundary walls

Winterborne St. Martin presents a classic example of why specialist surveys are essential in historic Dorset villages. The village's character derives from buildings constructed using traditional methods that differ significantly from modern construction. Properties built with solid stone walls, traditional lime mortar, and historic roofing materials require an understanding of how these materials perform over time and what maintenance they require. Our surveyors bring this knowledge to every inspection, identifying issues that generic surveys might miss.

The village's location near the Winterborne stream creates specific considerations for property purchasers. Properties in low-lying positions or those with streams or watercourses nearby may be susceptible to surface water flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Our surveys include assessment of flood risk factors and will advise if the property falls within any identified flood risk zones. We note the position of the property relative to the watercourse and assess any existing flood mitigation measures.

, the prevalence of Listed Buildings and Conservation Area restrictions in Winterborne St. Martin means that buyers need to understand any implications for future alterations or improvements. While a RICS Level 2 Survey provides general condition advice, our report will flag any conservation considerations that may affect how you maintain or modify the property. For properties of significant historic interest, we may recommend a more detailed RICS Level 3 Building Survey.

The local geology also plays a role in property condition. While much of the village sits on stable chalk, areas with Reading Beds or London Clay can experience ground movement during periods of drought or heavy rainfall. Our surveyors know which parts of the village are more likely to experience these issues and will pay particular attention to foundations and structural elements in susceptible locations.

Our experience surveying properties throughout the Winterborne St. Martin area has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are frequently encountered, particularly rising damp in solid-walled properties where original damp-proof courses may have failed or been bridged over time. Penetrating damp can also affect properties with deteriorating pointing, especially given the village's exposure to westerly winds and rainfall. Properties with solid stone walls are particularly susceptible to damp penetration through the masonry, especially where render finishes have cracked or been damaged.

Timber defects represent another common finding in this area's older properties. Wet rot and dry rot can affect roof timbers, floor joists, and window frames, often caused by prolonged moisture exposure from leaking roofs, faulty guttering, or inadequate ventilation. Woodworm activity is regularly discovered in properties with older timber elements, particularly in roof voids and ground floor joists where conditions favor infestation. Our surveyors know where to look and what signs to identify, even when superficial appearances suggest everything is in order.

Structural movement, while less common on the chalk geology that dominates much of the village, can occur in properties built on areas of Reading Beds or London Clay to the south and east of the village centre. Properties with large trees nearby may experience subsidence or heave as soil moisture levels change seasonally. Our surveyors know which areas of the village are more susceptible to these issues and will pay particular attention to foundations and structural elements in such locations. We also check for signs of past movement such as cracked plaster or doors that no longer close properly.

Additional common issues in this area include outdated electrical wiring that does not meet current regulations, chimney stack deterioration particularly in properties with open fires, and drainage problems related to aging pipework or insufficient fall in drainage runs. Many properties in the village still have original Victorian or Edwardian electrical systems that would benefit from complete rewiring. Our survey reports highlight these issues and provide guidance on priority repairs.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile slip and deterioration
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Structural movement and subsidence
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Chimney stack deterioration
• Poor drainage and guttering