RICS Level 2 Survey in Wickham

A RICS Level 2 Survey gives a clear inspection of the property's condition, with our inspectors checking the main structural elements and any significant defects. We look at the walls, roof, floors, doors and windows, then review damp-proofing, insulation and drainage. The focus is on problems that are serious, expensive to put right, or likely to affect the property's value and need urgent attention.

Wickham's older homes, which account for a large share of the housing stock, need a closer eye on the usual period property faults. We check for damp in traditional brickwork, take a look at older roofs, and note any structural movement that could point to subsidence or foundation trouble. With period cottages close to the historic square and modern developments elsewhere in the village, every property calls for a proper individual assessment.

Energy efficiency is part of the picture too, and we point out where improvements could trim running costs. Our surveyors know the construction methods common in Wickham and across the Winchester district, so they are more likely to spot issues a less experienced inspector may miss. What you get is a report that gives you something solid to work from when negotiating a purchase.

Our survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuilding cost assessment, both especially useful in Wickham where property values exceed £390,000 on average. That helps you judge whether the price is fair and gives you the right level of insurance cover.

• Structural walls, foundations, and floors
• Roof structure, covering, and chimneys
• Damp proofing and ventilation
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical condition (visible aspects)
• External finishes and gutters
• Garage and outbuildings
• Energy performance assessment

From surveying homes across Wickham and the wider Hampshire area, we regularly see a few recurring problems. Damp is one of the most common, partly because so much of the housing stock is older. Traditional brick and stone construction can look handsome, but it can also be vulnerable to penetrating damp, especially where original damp-proof courses have failed or been altered by later works.

Roof conditions are another issue we see time and again in Wickham properties. Many period homes have traditional pitched roofs with slate or clay tile coverings that are durable, though they still need maintenance or replacement in time. Our inspectors examine the roof structure carefully, looking for wear, missing tiles and flashing damage that could let water in. Chimneys are also checked, since older houses often have them and they often need repointing or repair.

Older Wickham properties often need their electrical systems brought up to current safety standards. Rewiring a period house can be a major cost, and our survey will show whether the existing installation is safe and adequate. We also look for signs of DIY alterations that may not meet regulations, a familiar issue in older homes that have been updated over the years.

Clay soils across parts of Hampshire mean our surveyors stay alert for subsidence or ground movement. Homes near the River Meon may be especially prone to stability concerns, and our visual inspection will note any cracking or movement that needs a structural engineer to take a closer look.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof damage and tile deterioration
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Structural movement and subsidence
• Rotten window frames and joinery
• Inadequate insulation
• Defective guttering and drainage
• Missing or damaged chimney flashings

The report is written to be clear and easy to follow, even if you have no background in building construction. We use a traffic light rating system for each element we inspect. Green means no issues that need attention, amber points to defects that need attention but are not serious, and red flags problems that are serious or need urgent repair.

We start with an executive summary setting out the most important findings, then move into detailed sections on each part of the property. Photographs are included to show the key issues, so it is plain what we mean. Every section covers our professional view of the defect, its cause and the recommended action. We also note whether any matter needs specialist investigation, such as from a structural engineer or electrician.

One of the most useful parts of the report is the market valuation and insurance rebuilding cost assessment. It gives you confidence that the price is fair and that your insurance cover is set at the right level if the worst happens. For Wickham properties, where average values exceed £390,000, that professional valuation offers real reassurance for both you and your mortgage lender.

If you are looking at a newer development such as those near Powell Road, our report will also pick up snagging issues that may sit under NHBC warranty. That way you know exactly what the builder is meant to put right before you move in.