RICS Level 2 Survey in Distington

Our RICS Level 2 survey looks closely at the property's condition, across all major accessible areas, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. We inspect both the interior and exterior of the building, and our surveyors look for damp, structural movement, rot, and other common defects that could affect the property's value or safety. Each element is checked methodically, so nothing gets missed during the inspection.

Where the roof space is accessible, we carry out a careful visual inspection and assess rafters, joists, insulation, and any signs of water ingress or pest infestation. Our surveyors also examine the external walls for cracks, render defects, and signs of subsidence, together with the condition of fascias, soffits, and rainwater goods. Windows and doors are tested for operation, and we look for rot or seal failures that may point to deeper structural problems. In the Cumberland area, where slate roofing is common, we pay particular attention to slate tiles and any signs of deterioration.

Inside the property, we check internal walls, ceilings, and floors for cracking, damp penetration, or structural issues. The survey also covers visible plumbing infrastructure, including pipes, tanks, and fittings, along with a basic check of the electrical installation. Each element receives a clear condition rating, from "good" through to "urgent repair needed," so you can see what needs attention first.

Outside, our surveyors look at gardens, boundaries, and any outbuildings too. We check driveways, paths, and drainage systems, giving you a rounded view of the property's overall condition. Every element is photographed and explained clearly in the final report, which leaves you with the detail needed to make an informed decision.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, foundations and damp course
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical installation basics
• Internal finishes and floors
• Outside areas and boundaries

Distington has roots dating back to the early 12th century, so plenty of local homes are likely to be of considerable age. Older properties often have character and solid construction, but they can also hide problems that only a trained eye will pick up. Our surveyors understand the issues common in traditional Cumbrian properties, from slate roof deterioration to damp affecting older stone-built homes. We know how local building materials age and what warning signs deserve attention.

There has been considerable development activity in the village in recent years, with prices rising dramatically and new buyers entering the market. A traditional terraced cottage or a more modern detached home, our Level 2 survey gives you the confidence that comes from knowing exactly what condition the property is in. The sharp price appreciation in the area, with some reports suggesting increases of over 90% year-on-year according to PropertyResearch.uk data, makes it especially important not to pay premium prices for homes with hidden defects. Our surveys help protect your investment by revealing issues before you commit to the purchase.

Local stone construction, slate roofs, and rendered facades are all common in Cumberland properties, and each material needs specific knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors have extensive experience inspecting homes across Cumbria and understand how local building methods and materials perform over time. We know what to look for in properties built with traditional methods and can identify issues that less experienced inspectors might miss. That local experience matters even more where older homes have been altered or extended over the years.

Many homes in the Distington area were built using traditional methods that are quite different from modern construction techniques. As a result, certain defects are more common here than in newer developments. Our surveyors are trained to identify these issues and provide an assessment that takes account of local building traditions and the problems often found in Cumbrian properties. We can also explain the likely cause of any defects and recommend suitable remedial action.