RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Charleton

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We check the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, assessing their current state and identifying any obvious defects or areas requiring attention. Our surveyors methodically work through each section of the property, noting wear and tear, age-related deterioration, and any signs of structural movement or damage that could affect the building's integrity.

The survey includes evaluation of the property's external elements, examining the roof structure, chimney stacks, rain goods and fascias. Our inspectors assess the condition of walls, foundations, and damp proof courses, identifying any potential structural concerns that could affect the property's integrity. In Charleton, where properties often feature traditional slate or clay tile roofs, we pay particular attention to the condition of these coverings and their fixings, as coastal winds and exposure can cause deterioration over time.

Inside the property, we inspect joinery, stairs, and partitions, along with the operation of doors and windows. We check for signs of dampness, woodworm, and rot, testing walls and floors with moisture meters where accessible to ensure a comprehensive assessment. Our surveyors understand that many properties in the South Hams area were built using traditional solid wall construction, which can be more susceptible to penetrating damp if maintenance has been neglected.

The survey also covers the condition of bathroom fittings, kitchen units, and built-in appliances. We identify any legal issues that may affect the property, including matters requiring further investigation by your solicitor. We check that any extensions or alterations appear to have the necessary planning permissions and building regulations approval, which is particularly important in Charleton where many properties have been extended over the years to take advantage of the stunning views over the South Hams countryside.

Your RICS Level 2 survey report uses a clear traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element inspected. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber signals defects that need repairing but are not urgent, and red highlights serious problems that require immediate professional attention. This straightforward system makes it easy to prioritise which issues need attention first and helps you understand the overall condition of the property at a glance.

The report includes specific recommendations for each issue found, ranging from minor maintenance suggestions to major structural concerns. We always provide practical guidance on what action to take, whether that is routine upkeep, emergency repairs, or engaging specialist contractors for further investigation. Each recommendation is clearly explained so you understand why the issue matters and what might happen if it's not addressed.

For properties in Charleton, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in Devon homes, including roof condition given the area's exposure to weather, damp penetration in older properties, and the condition of traditional building materials used in the region. We check for signs of timber decay, particularly in properties with solid floors or where damp proof courses may be missing or damaged. The report will highlight any areas where we recommend getting a specialist to conduct further investigation before you commit to the purchase.

We also include a market valuation in your report, giving you an independent assessment of the property's value based on our knowledge of the Charleton market. This can be useful when negotiating with sellers or when discussing mortgage arrangements with your lender. Our valuation takes into account the property's condition and any issues identified during the inspection, giving you a realistic picture of what the property is worth in its current state.

Properties in Charleton and the surrounding South Hams area face specific challenges due to their age, construction methods, and local environmental conditions. Many homes in this area were built before modern building regulations were introduced, meaning they may lack features that we now consider standard, such as adequate insulation, damp proof courses, or cavity wall construction.

Roof conditions are a frequent concern in Charleton properties, particularly those with traditional slate or clay tile coverings. The exposure to coastal weather can cause tiles to become brittle, slip, or suffer from broken fixings over time. We regularly find missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated mortar pointing, and issues with roof valley flashings that can lead to water penetration. Our surveyors will thoroughly inspect the roof from both inside the property where accessible and from ground level using binoculars.

Damp issues are another common finding in Charleton properties, especially in older buildings with solid walls. Rising damp can occur where damp proof courses are missing, damaged, or have been bridged by external ground levels. Penetrating damp often affects walls that are exposed to prevailing winds and rain, particularly where maintenance has been neglected. We use moisture meters to detect damp levels and can identify the likely cause and recommended remedy for any dampness we find.

The condition of windows and doors in Charleton properties varies widely depending on the age and quality of the original installations. We check the operation of all windows and doors, looking for signs of rot in wooden frames, failing seals in double glazing, and damaged or missing hardware. In period properties, original windows may have historic value, and we will note this in our report along with any recommendations for repairs that preserve the character of the property while improving functionality.

Ready to book your RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Charleton? Our simple online booking system lets you select a convenient date and time. Once confirmed, you will receive all the details you need to prepare for the inspection, including what to make accessible for the surveyor and how to ensure they can access all areas of the property.

Our team is here to answer any questions before you book. Whether you are buying your first home or investing in property in the South Hams area, we provide the information you need to proceed with confidence in your purchase decision. You can call us directly to discuss your requirements or get advice on which survey level is most appropriate for the property you are considering.