Buying a rural property means dealing with issues that simply don’t arise in urban areas. Private drainage, water supplies, access rights, and agricultural elements all need proper assessment. A surveyor experienced in rural properties knows what to look for.
Private Drainage
Most rural properties aren’t connected to mains sewerage. Instead, they rely on:
Septic tanks – traditional systems requiring regular emptying. Older tanks may not meet current regulations and could need replacement or upgrading.
Sewage treatment plants – modern systems that treat waste on-site. These need electricity, regular maintenance, and occasional emptying.
Cesspools – sealed tanks requiring frequent emptying. Expensive to run and largely obsolete.
The survey should identify what system exists, its apparent condition, and any concerns about compliance with current regulations. Specialist drainage surveys may be recommended for detailed assessment.
Private Water Supplies
Rural properties may have:
Private boreholes – drilled wells with electric pumps. Require maintenance and periodic testing.
Spring supplies – captured springs feeding storage tanks. Vulnerable to contamination and seasonal variation.
Shared supplies – arrangements with neighbouring properties that may have legal complexities.
Water quality testing is advisable for any private supply. The survey identifies the supply type and any visible concerns.
Access Rights
How do you reach the property? Rural access often involves:
Private roads – may be owned by the property, shared with others, or subject to rights of way. Maintenance responsibilities need clarifying.
Rights of way – the property may benefit from rights across others’ land, or others may have rights across yours.
Agricultural access – neighbouring farmers may have rights to cross the land for agricultural purposes.
The survey notes the access situation, but legal title investigation confirms the actual rights and obligations.
Outbuildings and Land
Rural properties frequently include:
Barns and agricultural buildings – condition varies enormously. Some are maintained, others are derelict. Conversion potential depends on construction, planning, and services.
Stables and equestrian facilities – if you’re buying for horses, these need proper inspection.
Land – paddocks, fields, woodland. Boundaries, fencing condition, drainage, and access all matter.
Traditional farm buildings – may be listed or in conservation areas, affecting what can be done with them.
Services and Utilities
Electricity may be single-phase domestic supply, three-phase for agricultural use, or in remote locations, generated on-site.
Heating is often oil, LPG, or solid fuel. Oil tanks need inspection for condition and compliance. Storage and delivery access affect practicality.
Broadband and mobile connectivity varies dramatically in rural areas. This isn’t a survey matter, but worth checking before committing.
Flooding and Drainage
Rural land may be subject to flooding from:
- Rivers and watercourses
- Surface water accumulation
- High groundwater levels
We check flood risk data and assess the property and grounds for drainage issues.
What We Look For
A rural property survey covers standard building inspection plus the additional elements specific to rural situations. We report on what we find and recommend further investigation where specialist assessment would be prudent.
Our surveyors are experienced in rural properties throughout the Cotswolds and surrounding areas. We understand the practical realities of rural ownership.
Contact Emerald Ritter to discuss surveying your rural property purchase.
