RICS Level 2 Survey in Sancton

Our RICS Level 2 Survey is a thorough inspection of the property’s accessible parts, picking out defects that could affect value or safety. We look closely at walls, roofs, floors and foundations, checking for movement, cracking or general deterioration. The survey also covers building services, including electrical, plumbing and heating systems, and flags anything that may need specialist attention or upgrading. Sancton’s housing stock is mostly older, with many homes built before 1919, so our inspectors pay close attention to the issues that often crop up in period properties.

Underneath Sancton, the Yorkshire Wolds geology brings its own points to watch. Chalk bedrock sits beneath clay deposits, a mix that can lead to shrink-swell movement, especially as the seasons change. Our surveyors look for subsidence or heave that may suggest ground movement is affecting the foundations. We also check drainage and flood risk, and while river flooding risk stays low, surface water flooding does affect some low-lying parts of the village.

Historic homes need a slightly different eye. In the Sancton Conservation Area, or in any Listed Building, our RICS Level 2 Survey gives clear guidance on condition while recognising the extra responsibilities that come with protected or historic property. We pick out maintenance issues linked to traditional construction and note alterations that may need planning permission or listed building consent. Our chartered surveyors know the special requirements for homes near St Mary's Church and across the historic village centre.

Brickwork is the main story in Sancton, with traditional red or brown brick facades seen across the village. Older buildings may also include local stone or render, both of which reflect the East Riding’s traditional building methods. We assess these materials carefully, looking for wear, mortar decay and any hint of movement that could point to foundation problems.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and condition
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows and doors
• Drainage and gutters

Age and construction are behind many of the issues we see in Sancton. Damp is one of the most common defects identified in our surveys of local homes. Rising damp can affect period buildings without a modern damp-proof course, while penetrating damp usually comes from damaged brickwork, worn roof coverings or failed flashing. Condensation also appears often in the village’s older stock, especially where ventilation is poor. Where needed, our surveyors use moisture meters and thermal imaging to assess how far the problem has spread and what is causing it.

Roofs deserve close attention too. In Sancton, older houses usually have traditional slate or tile coverings, and these often show wear after decades of service. Our surveyors regularly find slipped tiles, damaged leadwork around chimneys and worn felt underlay, all of which can let water in. These may seem minor at first glance, but the damage can become serious if nothing is done. We also check roofspace areas for old leaks, timber decay and insulation that is lacking, things you may not see from the ground.

Ground conditions bring extra factors into play for Sancton buyers. Clay superficial deposits across much of the village can make foundations move during drought or after prolonged wet weather. Homes near mature trees are at particular risk, because roots can draw moisture from the soil and make it shrink. Our surveyors look for cracking patterns and other signs of movement that could point to subsidence or heave and need further investigation. We pay special attention to properties built on the boulder clay deposits that characterise parts of the Yorkshire Wolds.

Older Sancton properties often need work on electrical and plumbing systems. Homes built before the 1980s commonly have wiring and pipework that no longer meets current regulations. We pick out outdated consumer units, inadequate earth bonding, lead or steel pipework and other matters that should be upgraded by qualified electricians and plumbers. The survey also looks at ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, since poor air flow can lead to condensation and, over time, damp.

Timber problems are another regular finding in older homes around Sancton. Our surveyors inspect structural timber, including floor joists, ceiling rafters and timber frame elements where they can be seen. We look for signs of active infestation, as well as historic damage that may call for treatment. Poor ventilation or ongoing damp makes timber decay more likely, so the conditions around the property matter just as much as the wood itself.