RICS Level 2 Survey in Skillington

Our RICS Level 2 survey, previously called a HomeBuyer Survey, gives you a detailed picture of a property's visible condition without the invasive investigations that come with a full structural survey. We inspect all accessible parts of the home, including the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp levels. The report uses a simple condition rating scale from condition rating 1, where no repairs are needed, to condition rating 3, where urgent repairs are required, so the main issues are easy to understand.

In Skillington's Conservation Area, where many homes include traditional limestone construction and historic detailing, we look closely at the condition of older materials. Our surveyors check for damp in stone walls, assess pantile roofs, and review any earlier repairs or alterations that could affect the building's integrity. We include clear photographs, descriptions of defects, and recommended actions, with estimated repair costs where appropriate.

For conventional homes in reasonable condition, including many of the semi-detached and detached properties found in Skillington, a Level 2 survey is often the right fit. With average property prices at around £316,500, it is a sensible way to spot hidden problems before you commit. Our reports will typically include a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost as well, giving you a fuller view of the property's worth.

Across this part of Lincolnshire, certain defects appear time and again, and our surveyors know what to watch for. We look at traditional drainage systems, older electrical installations that may fall short of current regulations, and any sign of movement in limestone walls. Local geology can influence how buildings settle over time, so we factor that into our assessment. The condition rating system then makes it clear which matters need immediate attention and which ones can simply be monitored.

• Roof and chimney condition
• Wall structure and damp assessment
• Window and door condition
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Floor and ceiling condition
• Preservation of historic features

Skillington's buildings reflect the traditional methods that have shaped this part of Lincolnshire for centuries. Local geology has provided excellent limestone, seen clearly across the village and especially in the Grade I listed St James' Church. We understand how these materials age and perform, and we know the defects that older limestone construction can bring, including mortar deterioration, water penetration through porous stone, and the effects of settlement in historic buildings.

Many houses here combine coursed limestone walling with clay pantile roofs, and that mix needs careful maintenance. We check the condition of roof tiles, look for slipped or damaged pantiles, and assess the pointing between limestone blocks. Traditional timber sash windows are also common in the village, so we inspect their operation, review draught proofing, and look for signs of rot or decay in the timber frames.

Not every property in Skillington raises the same concerns, because the village includes homes from several different periods. Our Level 2 surveys are set up to reflect that. They are especially well suited to properties built between 1950 and 2020, but they can still provide useful insight on older buildings, while flagging any areas where a more detailed RICS Level 3 survey may be advisable. We make clear recommendations based on what we see, so the scope of any issues is properly understood.

Much of the built-up part of the village sits within the Conservation Area, which was designated in 1990 and reviewed in 2016. It is an area with a strong historic character, and properties there may face particular planning constraints. Our surveyors note features that could affect future renovations or alterations. We also record the presence of unlisted buildings that make a positive contribution to the Conservation Area, as those homes often need especially careful thought before any works are planned.

Traditional properties in Skillington can develop issues that need a trained eye. The local limestone is durable, but mortar joints can deteriorate over time, particularly where buildings are exposed to prevailing weather patterns. During the survey, we examine the pointing between limestone blocks closely and look for erosion or gaps that may let water ingress take hold.

Pantile roofs are common throughout the village, and they deserve proper attention. As clay tiles age, they can become brittle, crack, or slip. We assess the roof as a whole, check for missing or damaged tiles, and inspect the supporting timber structure where it is accessible. If internal access is limited, we still make every effort to examine the roof from ground level using binoculars and other equipment.

Charming though they are, traditional timber sash windows often show their age. We check for rot in the timber frames, test the operation of sash cords and weights, and assess how effective any installed draught proofing is. You will often see these features on properties along Church Street and Grantham Road, where many homes still retain their original windows.

Older homes with solid walls often bring damp concerns, so we assess damp levels thoroughly throughout the property. Our surveyors use professional moisture meters to identify areas of elevated moisture and to distinguish between rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation. In traditional Skillington properties, where solid wall construction is common, understanding both the type and the cause of damp is key to planning the right remediation.