RICS Level 2 Survey in Bolney

Inside and out, our inspection covers every accessible part of the property. We look at the walls, roof, floors, doors and windows, checking for damp, rot, subsidence, or structural movement that could point to deeper problems. In Bolney, where many homes date back centuries, our surveyors give extra attention to older brickwork, stone details and traditional roofing materials that may have weathered decades of Sussex seasons. We also look for signs of earlier movement or repairs that an untrained eye might miss.

We also assess the main building systems, including electrics, plumbing and heating. Older properties in the area often still have wiring that no longer meets current safety standards, and our surveyors record any concerns that should be dealt with by qualified electricians. The report looks at the efficiency and condition of heating too, which matters in period homes where older boilers can be expensive to run. We note the type of consumer unit, whether RCD protection is fitted, and the visible wiring condition.

External details get the same careful treatment. Our surveyors check gutters, drains and drainage systems for blockages, damage or poor fall that could lead to water ingress. We note the condition of outbuildings, fences and boundaries, so you have a fuller picture of the property overall. For properties in Bolney's conservation areas, we point out any features of historical interest that could affect plans for alterations or improvements. The grounds are covered as well, along with any trees that might influence the structure through root systems.

Bolney has a real mix of property ages, from medieval timber-framed buildings to homes completed as recently as 2018, so our surveyors adapt their approach to each type. On older properties, we focus on original features and traditional materials. With newer homes, we look for snagging issues that may have been missed by developers. That variety means every survey needs to reflect the specific construction method and age of the building.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and chimneys
• Damp and rot in timber elements
• Electrical and gas safety
• Windows and doors
• Drainage and gutters
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

Bolney's housing stock throws up its own challenges, and our surveyors are trained to spot them. The village has an unusual mix of property ages, from charming 16th-century farmhouses to contemporary homes built in the last decade. No two houses are quite the same, so each one needs a proper understanding of its construction type and the common defects linked to that era. We have surveyed properties across Bolney, from historic cottages on Bolney Common to modern developments near the village centre.

Period homes in Bolney often rely on building techniques that are a long way from modern construction. Lime mortar pointing, original wattle and daub infill and historic brickwork all call for specialist knowledge if they are to be assessed properly. Our surveyors understand how these traditional materials behave in the local climate, and they can spot repairs carried out with unsuitable modern materials that may be hiding damage. Quite often, we find older brickwork has been repointed with cement mortar, which traps moisture and speeds up brick decay.

The number of historic properties in Bolney also means listed building issues come up often. Properties such as Playdells Farm and other Grade II listed buildings carry legal obligations for owners, and our survey reports flag any listed building status together with the implications for future alterations, repairs or renovations. Knowing these restrictions before you complete your purchase helps you plan properly for any changes you may want to make. Our surveyors also note any features of architectural or historical significance that could affect your enjoyment of the property.

Even newer properties in Bolney, such as those built as part of the Old Rawson Hall redevelopment completed in 2018 by Lilyford Homes, benefit from our detailed inspection approach. While these contemporary homes usually have fewer structural concerns, our surveyors can still identify build quality issues, snagging items, or problems with fixtures and fittings that the developer should put right. New builds are still major investments, and our survey means you know what you are buying.

• Heritage and conservation considerations
• Traditional building materials assessment
• Period property defects identification
• Listed building regulations
• Historic roof structures
• Original features assessment
• Modern construction quality check