RICS Level 2 Survey in Burton Overy

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects that may affect value or require urgent attention. In Burton Overy, where many properties fall within the designated Conservation Area or are listed buildings, our surveyors pay particular attention to traditional construction methods and age-related issues common to historic homes. We examine everything from the roof down to the foundations, taking photographs and noting the condition of each element.

The inspection covers all major structural elements including walls, roofs, floors, doors, and windows. We examine the condition of the building fabric, identify signs of damp or timber decay, and assess the condition of any visible wiring or plumbing. Our surveyors also evaluate the property's overall energy efficiency and highlight any areas where improvements might be warranted. We check both the interior and exterior of the property.

Given the local geology in Burton Overy, with Charmouth Mudstone and Mercia Mudstone formations underlying much of the village, our inspectors are particularly alert to signs of subsidence or heave. These clay-rich soils can expand and contract with moisture changes, potentially affecting foundations over time. We check for tell-tale signs such as cracking to walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that no longer close properly. Our report will flag any concerns and recommend appropriate next steps.

The survey also includes an assessment of any outbuildings, garages, or other structures on the property. We look at their condition and flag any issues that might affect the overall value or require maintenance. For properties with large gardens, which are common in Burton Overy, we also assess any retaining walls or drainage systems that might need attention.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and chimneys
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Timber floors and joinery
• Electrical and gas services
• Energy performance rating
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Properties in Burton Overy predominantly feature brick construction, with many older homes built using solid walls rather than the cavity wall construction that became standard from the 1980s onwards. This traditional method of building, while durable, presents specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. Solid walls lack the built-in insulation and moisture resistance of cavity walls, making them more susceptible to damp and heat loss.

Many traditional properties in the village also feature local stone elements, particularly in older cottages and farm buildings. These might include stone lintels, window sills, or even structural stone walls. Our surveyors understand traditional building materials and can assess their condition accurately. We know what to look for with stone that's been exposed to decades of British weather.

The roofs on Burton Overy properties are typically constructed with timber rafters and covered with either slate or clay tiles. Both materials have been used extensively in the area, and our inspectors can identify the specific type and assess its remaining lifespan. We frequently find that original slate roofs on older properties are still performing well, but we also encounter tiles that may have been replaced over the years with different materials.

Understanding these local construction methods is crucial for accurate survey assessment. Our team brings this knowledge to every inspection, ensuring that nothing typical to the area is missed. We don't just look at the property in isolation - we consider how it was built and what issues are likely to arise given the local construction traditions.

The age of much of Burton Overy's housing stock means that our surveyors frequently identify issues related to outdated electrical systems. Properties built before the 1980s often feature wiring that does not meet current regulations, and our reports highlight where a qualified electrician should be engaged for further investigation or upgrade work. We've seen properties with old consumer units, fabric-covered cables, and lighting circuits that simply wouldn't meet today's standards.

Roof conditions represent another common finding in our Burton Overy surveys. Traditional slate and tile roofs, while attractive, require regular maintenance. We frequently identify slipped or broken tiles, deteriorating leadwork around chimneys, and signs of past or current leaks. These issues, while sometimes appearing minor, can lead to significant water damage if not addressed promptly. Our inspectors get up on the roof where safe to do so and examine flashings, ridges, and valleys.

Damp is a perennial concern in traditional properties, and Burton Overy is no exception. Rising damp affects properties with solid walls where no damp-proof course exists or where it has failed. Penetrating damp can occur where roof tiles are damaged or where pointing has deteriorated. Our surveyors use their experience to identify the signs of damp, determine its likely cause, and recommend appropriate remediation. We also check for adequate ventilation, as poor airflow can lead to condensation issues.

The local geology presents specific concerns that our surveyors address in every Burton Overy property inspection. The clay-based soils, particularly the Charmouth Mudstone and Mercia Mudstone formations, are prone to shrink-swell behaviour. During periods of drought followed by heavy rainfall, the ground can move significantly, potentially causing foundation damage. We look for indicators such as diagonal cracking (especially around door and window frames), uneven floor levels, and signs of previous repair work that might indicate past structural movement.

• Roof tile damage and deterioration
• Rising damp in solid walls
• Outdated electrical installations
• Subsidence indicators
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Inadequate insulation
• Deteriorating pointing and render