RICS Level 2 Survey in Atherington

Our inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, and the roof structure from both inside the property and from ground level outside. The survey covers the condition of doors and windows, the состояние of the property's fixtures and fittings, and an assessment of any visible signs of damp, rot, or insect infestation. Our report includes clear ratings for each area inspected, from condition ratings of "no repair needed" to "urgent repairs required."

We check the property's services including electrical systems, plumbing, and heating. Our surveyors assess the general condition of these installations and flag any obvious safety concerns or areas requiring professional attention from qualified tradespeople. We also examine the exterior of the property, looking at the condition of the roof covering, gutters, downpipes, and external walls. For properties in Atherington, this is particularly important given the age of much of the housing stock and the traditional construction methods used throughout the village. We note any areas where deterioration has begun and provide practical recommendations for maintenance.

The RICS Level 2 survey includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost estimate. This helps you understand the current market value of the property and ensures you have adequate buildings insurance cover. If our surveyor identifies any significant defects, we provide an estimated cost for repairs, giving you negotiating power when discussing the purchase price with the vendor. Our reports are clear, practical, and designed to help you understand exactly what you are buying. We include clear photographs of any issues found so you can see exactly what the surveyor observed during the inspection.

Beyond the main structural elements, we also assess the property's boundaries, outbuildings, and any shared areas with neighbours. We look at the condition of fences, gates, and retaining walls, as well as garages and sheds that form part of the property. For properties with large gardens or land, we note the general condition of boundaries and any obvious issues that might affect the value or use of the outdoor space. This comprehensive approach ensures you have a complete picture of the property you are purchasing.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Condition ratings for each element
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Damp, rot, and timber defect assessment
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Roof and chimney condition check
• Boundary and outbuilding assessment
• Thermal element notation (where visible)

Atherington's housing stock reflects its heritage as a historic North Devon village. The majority of properties in the area are detached and semi-detached homes, with fewer terraced properties and flats compared to larger towns in the region. Many homes date from the pre-1919 period, constructed using traditional methods that differ significantly from modern building practices. The village centre features period cottages and historic farmhouses, while the outskirts include some post-war and more recent constructions. This mix of property ages and styles means that a thorough survey is particularly valuable when purchasing in this area.

The predominant construction materials in Atherington include local stone, rendered walls, and brick, with many older properties built from cob. Roofing throughout the village typically features slate, a traditional and durable material that has been used for centuries in this part of Devon. Solid wall construction is common in older properties, meaning they lack the cavity wall insulation found in modern homes. Our surveyors understand these construction methods and can identify the specific issues that affect each type of traditional building found in the Atherington area.

Properties built before modern building regulations often require more careful assessment during the survey process. Electrical wiring installed decades ago may not meet current safety standards, and plumbing systems may be nearing the end of their useful life. Our surveyors check these systems thoroughly and flag any concerns that would need to be addressed by qualified electricians or plumbers. We also look for signs of previous alterations or extensions that may not have been properly approved, which could affect the property's legal status or structural integrity.

The geology of the Atherington area presents specific considerations for property owners and buyers. The region is underlain by Devonian and Carboniferous rocks including sandstones, shales, and limestones, with superficial deposits of clay, silt, sand, and gravel. Areas with significant clay content can experience shrink-swell behaviour during periods of drought and heavy rainfall, which may lead to ground movement and potential subsidence issues. Our surveyors are trained to look for signs of structural movement, including cracking in walls, doors and windows that no longer close properly, and uneven floors that may indicate foundation issues.

Flood risk is another consideration for properties in certain parts of Atherington. While the village sits inland and avoids direct coastal flooding, the area falls within the River Taw catchment. Properties near watercourses or in low-lying areas may be susceptible to river flooding and surface water flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Our surveyors note the position of the property in relation to flood risk areas and include relevant information in your report. You can also check the Environment Agency flood risk maps for specific information about any property you are considering purchasing. We can advise on what questions to ask about flood history and drainage during your conveyancing.

The roofing on properties in Atherington typically features slate, a traditional and durable material that is common throughout North Devon. However, older slate roofs can suffer from slipped or missing tiles, deteriorating leadwork around chimneys and valleys, and decay in the underlying timber battens and rafters. Our surveyors examine the roof from both inside the property where accessible and from ground level using binoculars, providing you with a clear assessment of the roof's condition and any repairs that may be required. We also inspect chimney stacks and flashings, which are common sources of leaks in older properties.