RESIDENTIAL BUILDING SURVEYS
Russet & Sage is an independent, residential building surveying practice, based in Aynho near the Cotswolds. We are a small, family-run business helping clients locally and across the UK, particularly where experience with traditional and historic buildings is required. We prioritise client care, one client, one property and one survey at a time. Our surveys are carried out by a RICS registered building surveyor.
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Our service is designed for clients who require:
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• A careful, unhurried inspection
• Clear explanation (not jargon)
• High quality photographs that support the findings
• Sensible next steps, including when specialist input is needed
• A report that you can actually use during negotiation and planning
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OUR SERVICES
A clear, concise survey providing an overview of a property’s condition, defects and risks.
A detailed survey offering in-depth analysis of construction, condition and significant defects.
A Level 3–equivalent survey with additional emphasis on traditional materials, construction and long-term fabric performance.
A focused diagnostic survey investigating the causes of damp, condensation and moisture-related issues.
A focused assessment of specific building elements to clarify condition and the need for repair.
Conservation-led repair work using traditional lime mortars appropriate to historic fabric.
CHOOSING YOUR SURVEY
"I'm buying a typical house and I want to know there's nothing seriously wrong with it"​​
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We can investigate the property fully and inform on its condition. Our level 2 reports are straightforward and aim to be as helpful as possible without uneccesary defensive language and recommendations for follow-up investigations.
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"I'm buying a new house and I want to be reassured regarding its condition"​​
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If you are buying a modern or conventional home and want a clear, professional overview of its condition — without unnecessary detail — a Level 2 Home Survey is usually the most appropriate choice.
It highlights significant issues, helps you understand what matters most and supports confident decision making.
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"I want to properly understand what I’m buying"
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If the property is older, has been extended or altered, or you want a deeper understanding of how it is constructed and maintained, a Level 3 Building Survey provides a more detailed inspection and explanation.
This is well suited to buyers who want clarity on risks, repairs and long-term implications.
"I’m buying a character or traditional property and need someone who knows what they're looking at"
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If the property is traditionally constructed or historic, a Heritage Building Survey offers a Level 3–equivalent inspection with additional emphasis on traditional materials, moisture behaviour and long-term care.
This approach is designed to help you understand how to look after it responsibly over time.
"I’m concerned about damp or moisture"
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If you are experiencing damp, condensation or other moisture-related issues, a Specialist Damp & Moisture Survey focuses on identifying the likely causes and appropriate next steps.
This is a diagnostic investigation, not a sales-led inspection, and is intended to support proportionate, informed decisions.
"I have a specific concern and don't need a full survey"
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If you are unsure whether repairs are needed — for example to masonry, pointing or an external wall — a Targeted Condition Survey can help clarify the condition of specific elements without commissioning a full building survey.
This is often useful where focused advice is needed to inform repair or maintenance decisions.