RICS Level 2 Survey in Cury

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and critical systems including electrics and plumbing where visible. The survey includes a detailed assessment of any defects found, categorised by their severity, and provides practical recommendations for repairs and maintenance.

In Cury's rural setting, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues common in older Cornish properties. The traditional stone and render construction found throughout The Lizard peninsula can be susceptible to damp, particularly in properties without modern damp-proof courses. We check for signs of penetrating damp, rising damp, and condensation, which are frequent concerns in older homes built with solid walls. Many properties in the area date back to the 18th and 19th centuries when solid-wall construction was the norm, and these require specialist assessment to identify hidden defects.

Roof conditions receive thorough inspection as well. Many properties in the Cury area feature traditional slate roofs, and our surveyors assess tile condition, ridge mortar, flashings, and verges for signs of deterioration or water ingress. Given the coastal proximity of The Lizard peninsula, salt air exposure can accelerate material degradation, making regular roof inspections particularly important for local homeowners. We also check chimney stacks, which are common on older Cornish properties, assessing their structural condition and any signs of mortar deterioration.

The unique geology of The Lizard peninsula also influences our inspection approach. The area is known for its serpentine rock formations, which can affect ground conditions and drainage. Our surveyors assess how local geology might impact foundations and drainage systems, particularly in properties with clay soils that can shrink and swell with moisture changes.

• Wall and structural condition assessment
• Roof, chimney, and rain water goods inspection
• Damp and timber decay evaluation
• Electrical and plumbing visible inspections
• Boundary and outbuilding assessment
• Energy efficiency recommendations
• Foundation and drainage assessment
• Window and door condition inspection

Cury is a small rural parish on The Lizard peninsula with a population of approximately 460 residents. The housing stock reflects its agricultural heritage, with many properties originally built as farm cottages or workers' houses. The majority of properties sold in the area are detached homes, commanding an average price of £470,000, while semi-detached properties average around £280,000. The parish sits about 200 feet above sea level and approximately one mile inland from the coast, giving residents beautiful rural views while being close to popular beaches like Poldhu Cove and Church Cove.

The parish lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and many properties benefit from traditional Cornish construction using local stone and render. The Norman-period parish church of St Corentin demonstrates the area's historical architecture, and similar traditional building methods were used for local homes. These older properties often require particular attention to damp proofing, as solid-wall construction lacks the cavity insulation found in modern homes. The render on these properties can also conceal underlying stonework that may have suffered from weathering or mortar deterioration over decades.

Electrical systems in older properties are a common concern across Cury. Properties over 25 years old may still have original wiring that does not meet current safety standards. Our surveyors inspect accessible electrical installations and flag any concerns that require further investigation by a qualified electrician. Similarly, plumbing systems in older homes may feature galvanised steel pipes that are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure. Many rural properties also rely on private water supplies or septic tanks, which require specific assessments beyond the standard survey scope.

The local geography also warrants consideration. While Cury sits approximately 200 feet above sea level and about a mile inland from the coast, the area's clay soils can contribute to ground movement. Properties with trees or large vegetation nearby may be susceptible to subsidence issues, particularly during periods of dry weather when clay soils shrink. Our surveyors assess foundations and look for signs of structural movement that might indicate underlying problems. The valleys running down to Poldhu Cove and Gunwalloe Church Cove can also influence drainage patterns in the area.

With many properties in Cury exceeding 50 years of age, and some traditional buildings dating back centuries, a Level 2 survey is particularly valuable. Older Cornish properties often feature solid walls without cavity insulation, original timber windows, and historic roofing materials that require specialist assessment. Our surveyors understand traditional construction methods and can identify issues specific to the local housing stock, from the condition of traditional lime mortar pointing to signs of structural movement in older stone buildings.