RICS Level 2 Survey in Ashprington

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of the property's condition, examining all major accessible elements including walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows. Our inspectors assess the overall structural integrity of the building, looking for signs of movement, cracking, or subsidence that could indicate serious structural problems. In Ashprington, where properties often feature traditional solid wall construction using local stone and slate, our surveyors know exactly what to look for when identifying age-related defects.

The survey includes a thorough evaluation of the roof structure, including tiles or slates, flashing, gutters, and chimneys. Many properties in Ashprington feature traditional slate roofs that can suffer from slipped tiles, perished felt, or decaying timbers over time. We inspect the condition of these elements and flag any areas where water ingress could lead to further damage. Our report also covers damp testing where appropriate, timber condition assessment, and evaluation of any extensions or alterations made to the original property.

Additionally, the RICS Level 2 Survey includes assessment of services such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems. Older properties in the South Hams area frequently have outdated electrical systems that may not meet current safety standards, and our surveyors will note any concerns that require further investigation by qualified specialists. The report provides clear condition ratings for each element, making it easy to prioritise any remedial work needed.

Our surveyors also examine external areas including boundaries, drainage, and any outbuildings or garages. We check the condition of fences, gates, and retaining walls, as well as the overall drainage system including gullies, gutters, and downpipes. For properties with large gardens or land, we note any obvious issues that may affect the property's value or require future maintenance.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical wiring and consumer unit
• Heating and hot water systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• External finishes and drainage

The housing stock in Ashprington presents unique challenges that make professional surveys essential for any buyer. With approximately 40-50% of properties built before 1919, many feature traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern standards. These older farmhouses, cottages, and period properties often lack modern damp-proof courses, have limited insulation, and may contain hidden structural elements that require expert assessment. Our surveyors understand these older construction methods and know how to identify the specific defects that commonly affect them.

Our inspectors frequently encounter timber defects in older Ashprington properties, including woodworm infestation and both wet and dry rot in structural timbers. Poor ventilation in older buildings can exacerbate these issues, leading to accelerated deterioration of roof timbers and floor structures. The natural slate roofs common to the area, while durable, require regular maintenance and our surveyors check for slipped tiles, damaged leadwork, and signs of previous repairs that may indicate ongoing issues. We also examine the condition of roof space timbers, checking for signs of past or current infestation.

Electrical wiring in properties built before modern regulations is another common concern. Many older homes in the South Hams still have original fuse boxes and wiring that would not pass current electrical safety standards. While our survey is visual and non-invasive, we note the age and condition of visible electrical installations and recommend further investigation by a qualified electrician where necessary. This comprehensive approach ensures you have a complete understanding of the property's condition before completing your purchase.

The desirability of the South Hams area means that many properties are used as second homes or holiday lets, which can affect how well a property has been maintained. Some owners may have deferred maintenance or carried out DIY improvements that do not meet current building regulations. Our surveyors are trained to identify these issues and flag them in our reports, giving you the information needed to negotiate with the seller or budget for necessary remedial work.