RICS Level 2 Survey in West Tanfield

Our RICS Level 2 survey gives a detailed picture of the property's overall condition, with attention on all accessible parts of the building. We inspect the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows and bathrooms, noting visible defects and any areas that raise concern. The survey also looks closely at the structure, drawing out signs of subsidence, movement or structural weakness that could affect the building's integrity. Our chartered surveyors work through every accessible element methodically, using their training and experience to spot problems that an untrained eye would often miss.

West Tanfield has many properties built in the traditional stone style seen across North Yorkshire villages, so our surveyors give older buildings especially close attention. Stone-walled homes are often sturdy, but over time they can be affected by mortar erosion, damp penetration and general weathering. We check the pointing, look for cracking or movement, and consider the overall stability of the walls. Local geology and climate can speed up the deterioration of traditional materials, which is why we examine these features so carefully on every inspection we carry out in the village.

Essential services are covered too, including the electrical system, plumbing and heating. We review the condition of the consumer unit, the age and condition of the wiring, visible pipework and the heating system. We do not carry out invasive testing, but we do highlight obvious concerns that should be checked further by a qualified electrician or gas engineer before you complete your purchase. In West Tanfield, plenty of older properties still retain original electrical installations that would not meet current regulations, and our survey helps flag those points so you can budget for the upgrades required.

Energy efficiency forms part of the survey as well, and that matters in older stone buildings where solid walls are often found instead of cavity wall insulation. Our thermal assessment gives you a clearer sense of likely running costs and points out where improvements may be possible. That can be useful for budgeting now as well as planning future home improvements, particularly if thermal upgrades are likely to be needed to make your new home more comfortable and economical to run.

• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Roof covering and gutters
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows and doors
• Electrical and gas services
• Heat loss and energy efficiency

Your RICS Level 2 report uses a straightforward rating system for every element inspected. Condition ratings run from 1 to 3, with 1 meaning no issues requiring attention, 2 marking defects that need attention but are not serious structural problems, and 3 showing serious defects that need urgent professional investigation before you proceed with the purchase. This system makes it easier to see what needs immediate attention and what can be dealt with over time. We also use the traffic light system, red, amber and green, to help you prioritise any remedial work.

Because stone construction is so common in West Tanfield, our surveyors regularly come across weathering and mortar deterioration. North Yorkshire freeze-thaw cycles can steadily damage pointing, which may then lead to damp penetration and lower thermal efficiency. Our reports set out specific recommendations for dealing with these issues, and we include cost estimates where possible. We know the local climate and the effect it has on traditional buildings, so our advice reflects the ongoing maintenance demands that come with stone-built property.

The report gives an overall opinion on the condition of the property as well, helping you judge how it compares with similar homes of the same type and age. We comment on the urgency of repairs and can suggest suitable specialists where more investigation is needed. If, for example, we identify possible subsidence or notable structural movement, we will recommend that you instruct a structural engineer before going any further. Our aim is simple, to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about the purchase.

We look at energy efficiency too, which is especially relevant in older stone buildings that may have solid walls rather than cavity wall insulation. The thermal assessment helps you understand likely running costs and highlights places where improvements could be made. That is useful for present budgeting and for planning future home improvements. Many older properties in West Tanfield could benefit from insulation upgrades, and knowing that before you buy gives you the chance to build those costs into your overall budget.