RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Monxton

Our inspectors conduct a hands-on, visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, and the roof structure. We check the condition of joinery, fixtures, and fittings, and we assess the property's overall condition relative to its age and construction type.

The survey covers all major building systems - we inspect the plumbing installation, examine the electrical consumer unit and visible wiring, and assess the heating system. We look for signs of dampness, timber decay, structural movement, or any other defects that could affect the property's value or require expensive repairs. Our surveyors also check the condition of outbuildings, boundaries, and grounds where relevant.

For Monxton properties, many of which sit in the Test Valley area with access to properties along Chalkpit Lane and the village centre, our local experience means we understand the common issues affecting homes in this part of Hampshire. We know how older properties in the village have been constructed and can identify age-related issues that may not be immediately obvious to an untrained eye.

We pay particular attention to the specific challenges that Hampshire properties face, including the potential for clay-related subsidence in certain ground conditions and the effects of moisture on traditional construction. Our team has inspected numerous properties in the area, giving us insight into the typical defects found in homes of various ages and construction styles.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, foundations and substructure
• Floors, stairs and joinery
• Dampness and timber condition
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and drainage
• Electrical installation
• Heating system
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Through our work surveying properties throughout Test Valley, we have identified several recurring issues that Monxton buyers should be aware of. Many older properties in the village were constructed using traditional building methods that, while solid, can develop problems over time that are not visible from a casual inspection.

We frequently encounter issues with roofing on period properties, where original tiles and leadwork may have deteriorated over decades of exposure to the elements. Loft spaces in older homes often reveal previous repairs of varying quality, and we assess whether these were carried out properly or may need further attention.

Dampness is another common finding in character properties, particularly where original solid walls meet modern damp-proof courses or where ventilation has been reduced through renovation work. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for and can distinguish between minor condensation issues and more serious penetrating damp that requires remediation.

We also see cases where previous owners have carried out DIY improvements or structural alterations that may not meet current building regulations. While these may have seemed acceptable at the time, they can create issues for future sale or require costly rectification work. Our detailed assessment highlights any such matters so you can factor them into your purchasing decision.

Your RICS Level 3 Survey report is designed to be clear and practical. We use the RICS traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element - red for urgent issues requiring attention, amber for defects that should be addressed, and green for satisfactory condition. This makes it easy to prioritise any work that may be needed.

The report includes clear photographs highlighting specific issues we find, along with our professional opinion on the cause of any defects and recommended remedial actions. We also provide cost guidance where possible, helping you understand the potential financial implications of any work required. For properties in Monxton where values are high, this information is invaluable for budgeting and negotiation.

We understand that not everyone has technical knowledge of building construction, so we write our reports in clear, straightforward language. Technical terms are explained, and the report includes an executive summary that sets out the key findings at the beginning. This means you can quickly understand the overall condition of the property before reading the detailed sections.

Each section of the report corresponds to a specific element of the property, from the roof down to the foundations. You will find detailed findings on the condition of each area, with clear indication of any defects discovered and our recommendation for how they should be addressed. The report also includes a section on legal considerations that your solicitor may need to review.