RICS Level 3 Building Survey Colston Bassett

Colston Bassett presents a unique set of considerations for anyone purchasing property in the village. The area is designated as a Conservation Area, with 23 listed buildings recorded in the National Heritage List for England, including the Grade I listed ruin of St Mary's Church and numerous Grade II listed structures. This concentration of historic properties means that many homes in the village will have construction features that differ significantly from modern buildings and require expert assessment. Our surveyors are familiar with the architectural heritage of the village, from the prominent Colston Hall with its rusticated ground floor to the traditional farmhouses and village cottages that line the historic streets.

The predominant building materials in Colston Bassett include traditional orange and red brick, with some properties featuring painted brickwork or render. Archaeological evidence shows that local quarries near Colston Hall provided building materials including soft grey lias stone, along with brickworks and nearby lime kilns that supplied mortar and render materials. Roofs historically used thatch before clay pantiles became the norm, and some properties still feature these older roofing materials which require specialist assessment. We have inspected numerous properties with original thatch or historic pantiles and understand the maintenance requirements and potential defects unique to these materials.

The local geology in the Vale of Belvoir includes clay-with-flints deposits, which were historically used for brick making, and this clay content can present shrink-swell risks that affect foundations over time. Our inspectors examine every accessible element of the property, from the condition of the brickwork and pointing to the state of roofs, chimneys, walls, floors, and ceilings. We specifically look for signs of movement, damp penetration, timber defects, and deterioration that is common in properties of this age. Given that many Colston Bassett homes date from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, our surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing these older constructions.

The village's rural character means that properties often have larger gardens and outbuildings that may also require assessment. We inspect detached garages, barns, and traditional outbuildings which are common in this area. Additionally, the proximity to the River Smite means we pay particular attention to drainage and any signs of water penetration in properties on lower ground or those with older drainage systems. Our experience in the local area means we understand how these geographical factors interact with the traditional construction methods found throughout Colston Bassett.

• Comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Detailed assessment of construction materials and methods
• Identification of defects, decay, and structural movement
• Evaluation of damp proof courses and ventilation
• Assessment of roof condition including tiles, flashing, and gutters
• Checking of joists, beams, and load-bearing elements
• Inspection of outbuildings and boundary structures
• Assessment of drainage and ground conditions

The River Smite flows just to the west of Colston Bassett village centre, and while major flood events are not common, the proximity to this watercourse means that our surveyors pay particular attention to drainage, ground conditions, and any signs of water penetration. Properties on lower ground or those with older drainage systems receive extra scrutiny during the inspection. We look for evidence of previous flooding, water staining, and the condition of soakaways and drainage channels that serve the property. In our experience, the fields around the River Smite can hold water during periods of heavy rain, so we check boundary walls and gardens for signs of water accumulation.

The village's position in the Vale of Belvoir means that the underlying geology includes clay deposits, which can expand and contract with moisture changes. This shrink-swell behaviour can affect foundations over time, particularly in properties with shallow or traditional footings. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying the subtle signs of foundation movement or settlement that might indicate these geological factors at work. We examine brickwork for characteristic crack patterns, check door and window operation for binding or sticking, and assess floor levels for signs of movement that could indicate foundation issues.

For those considering new build properties in the area, developments such as Colston Gardens on Colston Gate NG12, Regansfield, and new homes from David Wilson Homes and Barratt Homes offer modern construction with the benefit of NHBC warranty. However, even new builds can benefit from a Level 3 survey, as our inspectors can identify any snagging issues or construction defects that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. We have surveyed numerous new-build properties across the region and understand the common issues that occur with modern construction methods, from roof tile defects to window installation problems.

The village's location near the A46 dual carriageway provides excellent transport links to the M1 and onward to London, making Colston Bassett particularly popular with business executives seeking a rural lifestyle with convenient commute access. This demand has supported strong property values, with recent sales including properties in the £800,000 to £1.3 million range. Given these significant investments, a Level 3 survey provides essential due diligence that protects your financial interests. The local amenities include The Martins Arms village pub, while nearby Bingham and Melton Mowbray offer additional services and retail options.