RICS Level 2 Survey in Altarnun

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of your Altarnun property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, along with the condition of bathrooms, kitchens, and other fixed installations. The survey includes an assessment of potential issues like damp penetration, structural movement, roof condition, and the condition of electrical and plumbing systems where visible. For Altarnun's traditional stone-built cottages and older properties, we pay particular attention to the unique construction methods used in these historic buildings.

Given that Altarnun sits on the eastern edge of Bodmin Moor and features properties built from granite and local stone, our surveyors are experienced in identifying issues specific to Cornish rural properties. We check for signs of weathering on stonework, assess the condition of slate roofs common on Edwardian farmhouses, and evaluate any alterations or extensions that may have been made to listed buildings in the area. The resulting report uses clear ratings to indicate the urgency of any repairs needed, from "requires immediate attention" to "needs attention in due course."

Our inspection process covers the main structural elements of your property, including the foundations, walls, floors, and roof structure. We examine both the exterior and interior of the building, looking for signs of subsidence, settlement, or structural movement that could indicate underlying problems. In older Altarnun properties, we pay particular attention to the condition of load-bearing walls and any structural alterations that may have been carried out over the years. Our surveyors will also check the condition of gutters, downpipes, and drainage systems, which are particularly important given the high rainfall that Cornwall experiences throughout the year.

The Level 2 survey is specifically recommended for properties in reasonable condition that are of standard construction - typically buildings made from brick or stone with traditional roofs. This covers the majority of homes in the Altarnun area, from terraced cottages to modern detached houses. However, if you're considering a particularly old or complex property, we may recommend a Level 3 Building Survey instead, which provides a more detailed assessment. We'll always advise you on the most appropriate survey type based on the specific property you are purchasing.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Assessment of structural condition
• Identification of defects and potential issues
• Rating of urgency for repairs needed
• Advice on maintenance and future problems
• Market value and insurance reinstatement guidance

The Altarnun property market has seen significant price adjustments recently, with average prices falling 17% over the last year and 29% below the 2022 peak of £468,667. In this changing market, a RICS Level 2 survey provides essential protection for your investment. The current average price of £331,000-£361,600 represents a substantial commitment, and understanding the true condition of the property before purchase is crucial for making an informed decision.

Properties in Altarnun face several area-specific considerations that our survey addresses. The village sits near tributaries of the River Inny (Penpont Water), meaning some properties may have river frontage and associated flood risk considerations. While Altarnun is an inland village and not at significant coastal flood risk, properties near watercourses can still be affected by surface water flooding or groundwater issues. Our surveyors will assess the property's proximity to water and look for any signs of previous flooding or water damage.

The local geology, combined with the age of many properties, means our surveyors are alert to potential issues with damp, subsidence, and the condition of traditional building materials. Many properties in Altarnun were built using traditional methods that predate modern building regulations, and these can present unique challenges. We assess any signs of structural movement that may have occurred over the years in these historic buildings, checking for cracking, uneven floors, or doors and windows that don't close properly - all potential indicators of underlying structural issues.

The Five Lanes Close development by Devonshire Homes represents one of the newer additions to housing in the area, though all properties there are now sold. Newer homes benefit from surveys too, as even recently built properties can have defects that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Our survey will identify any issues with recent construction, ensuring your new-build investment is sound. We check for common issues in newer properties, such as inadequate ventilation, problems with windows and doors, and any defects in the building envelope that could lead to damp or thermal performance issues.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout Cornwall, we've identified several issues that commonly affect homes in the Altarnun area. Traditional stone-built properties often suffer from deteriorating mortar between the granite stones, which can allow moisture penetration and lead to internal damp problems. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing the condition of stonework and can identify whether repointing or other repairs will be needed.

Slate roofs are common on Edwardian farmhouses and older properties in the area, and these can develop issues over time. We check for cracked or missing slates, damage from moss or lichen growth (which is particularly prevalent given Cornwall's damp climate), and the condition of the roof structure and supports. Many older slate roofs will have been repaired over the years with different materials, and we can assess whether these repairs are adequate or may need further attention.

Given the age of much of the housing stock in Altarnun, electrical and plumbing systems are often a key concern. We visually inspect the condition of electrical consumer units, wiring (where visible), and plumbing connections. For older properties, we often recommend that a qualified electrician or plumber carries out a more detailed investigation of the services before completion. This is particularly important for properties that may still have original Victorian or Edwardian electrical systems.

Rising damp and condensation are common issues in older properties with solid walls, which lack the cavity insulation found in modern homes. Our surveyors use their experience to identify signs of damp penetration, including staining, peeling wallpaper, and mold growth. We'll advise on the likely cause and recommended remediation, which may include improving ventilation, applying damp-proof courses, or addressing external ground levels that could be contributing to the problem.