RICS Level 2 Survey in Kirby Grindalythe

A RICS Level 2 Survey gives a full visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our surveyor looks at the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, floors, ceilings and stairs, along with plumbing, electrical installations and heating systems. We then assess the property's overall condition and point out any defects or areas of concern that need attention. Each issue is graded by severity, from urgent matters needing immediate action to recommendations for future maintenance. With our experience surveying properties across the Yorkshire Wolds, we can pick up problems that a less experienced eye might miss.

Clear, colour-coded ratings sit at the centre of the report, so the condition of each element is easy to follow. Green means no issues requiring attention, amber shows defects that need repair or replacement but are not serious, and red marks serious defects or legal issues that need urgent investigation. That simple system tells you exactly what you are buying and gives you a basis for negotiation if major problems are found. Reports usually run to 20-30 pages, and a market valuation plus insurance rebuild cost come as standard.

We inspect the main building elements, starting with the roof and chimney, where we look for missing or damaged tiles, worn mortar and signs of leakage. Walls are checked for cracking, movement and damp penetration, with particular care taken over the traditional brick construction methods used in many Kirby Grindalythe properties. Windows and doors are examined for condition and operation, while floors are checked for levelness and signs of rot or deterioration. We also assess the property's services, including the electrical installation, plumbing and heating system, so we can comment on whether they are safe and working as they should.

• Roof and chimney inspection
• Wall and foundation assessment
• Window and door condition check
• Damp and moisture detection
• Electrical and plumbing review
• Heating system inspection
• Property valuation included

Set in the Great Wold Valley, Kirby Grindalythe sits on predominantly chalk geology. That, together with the Gypsey Race winterbourne stream running through the village, means buyers should be alert to ground conditions. Winterbourne streams can bring surface water flooding during heavy rainfall, so our surveys specifically look for signs of water damage or drainage problems. The Gypsey Race passes through the village centre, and homes close to this watercourse may face a greater risk of surface water flooding in heavy rain events.

Several historic properties in the village are built using traditional methods, including pink-orange brick in Flemish bond with lime mortar. Those older construction techniques call for specialist knowledge during inspection, as defects such as penetrating damp, failed damp proof courses and deteriorating lime mortar pointing are common. Our surveyors know how to identify these age-related problems and can separate cosmetic defects from serious structural concerns. The Gables on Kirby Lane, built around 1880 for the Sledmere Estate, is a good example of the traditional construction found throughout the village.

For older homes in the area, we pay close attention to roofs, where original tiles may show age and wear, to structural elements that may have settled over many years, and to any alterations or extensions that may have gone ahead without proper building regulations approval. Signs of structural movement are also checked, as these can point to ground conditions linked to the chalk geology of the Yorkshire Wolds. Immediately southwest of St Andrew's Church, the medieval settlement earthworks are a Scheduled Monument, which reflects the long history of settlement here and the likelihood of older construction methods.

New-build activity in Kirby Grindalythe is limited, and most homes are historic properties or agricultural conversions. The Low Farm development by Hogg the Builder, completed in 2011, is one of the few modern schemes in the village, with ten homes arranged around a courtyard. Even in these newer properties, we still look for familiar issues such as sealant failure around windows, poor ventilation and defects that have appeared since construction. The local economy also includes the Cranedale Centre, a residential Field Studies Centre operating from a converted farm in the village, and High Mowthorpe, home to an ADAS arable research centre covering 437 hectares.

• Check for signs of damp in older brick properties
• Inspect roof condition on period homes
• Review drainage near the Gypsey Race stream
• Verify any extensions have proper approvals
• Assess timber frames and windows in historic buildings
• Evaluate energy efficiency in older properties
• Look for signs of structural movement in chalk geology areas