RICS Level 2 Survey East Devon

A RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the Homebuyer Survey, provides a detailed inspection of the property's condition focusing on issues that are most relevant to residential properties. Our chartered surveyors examine all accessible parts of the building, including the roof, walls, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of built-in fixtures and fittings. The survey includes a comprehensive assessment of any visible defects, categorising them by their severity and suggesting appropriate remedial actions. We check the condition of the property from top to bottom, looking for signs of wear, damage, or potential future problems that could cost you thousands to put right.

Given the prevalence of older properties in East Devon, particularly those built before modern building regulations, our inspectors pay particular attention to common issues found in period construction. This includes assessing the condition of traditional slate and thatch roofs, examining stone and cob walls for signs of movement or damp, and evaluating older electrical and plumbing systems that may not meet current standards. Many properties in towns like Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary, and Budleigh Salterton were built in the Victorian or Edwardian eras, and these older homes often have solid walls rather than the cavity walls found in modern construction. Understanding how these different construction methods behave is crucial for identifying potential problems.

East Devon's unique geography presents specific considerations for property purchasers. Our surveyors are familiar with the flood risks affecting properties near the River Exe, River Otter, and River Axe, as well as coastal areas susceptible to tidal flooding and erosion. We note any visible signs of past flooding or water damage and provide guidance on potential future risks. Properties built on clay-rich soils, which are common across parts of East Devon, may be at risk of subsidence or movement, and our surveyors assess the foundations and structural elements accordingly. The geology of East Devon includes areas of clay, sandstone, and limestone, with clay soils posing a particular risk for shrink-swell movement that can affect foundations over time.

Coastal properties in Exmouth, Sidmouth, and Budleigh Salterton face additional considerations related to erosion and sea defence condition. Our surveyors examine retaining walls, cliff stability where accessible, and any signs of coastal damage that could affect the property's long-term viability. While a RICS Level 2 Survey is not a full structural engineering assessment, we flag any visible concerns that warrant further investigation by a specialist. This is particularly important for properties close to the cliff edges in East Devon, where coastal erosion is an ongoing concern that affects property values and insurance.

• Visible signs of damp and timber decay
• Condition of roof covering and flashing
• Wall construction and visible defects
• Floor structure and joists
• Windows and doors
• Electrical and plumbing visible installations
• Evidence of movement or subsidence
• Access to loft and roof space (where safe and accessible)

With nearly 2,000 properties changing hands in East Devon over the past year and average prices exceeding £340,000, a RICS Level 2 Survey provides essential protection for your investment. Our surveyors frequently identify issues in older properties, from damp problems in period buildings to structural concerns in properties near the coast. The cost of a survey is small relative to the potential cost of discovering serious defects after you've completed the purchase. Many buyers have saved thousands by using survey findings to negotiate reductions or request repairs before completion.

East Devon has a high proportion of older properties, with many homes built before modern building regulations came into effect in the 1970s. These older properties often have traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern buildings, including solid walls, older roof structures, and dated services. Our surveyors understand these construction methods and know what to look for when assessing properties that may be fifty, a hundred, or even two hundred years old. We can identify issues that might be deal-breakers for some buyers but manageable for others, giving you the information you need to make the right decision.

The coastal location of many East Devon towns brings specific considerations that local knowledge helps us address. Properties in Exmouth, Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, and along the Exe Estuary face potential risks from coastal erosion and tidal flooding, particularly those in low-lying areas or with seafront access. Our surveyors assess the condition of retaining walls, sea defences, and properties built on or near cliffs, noting any signs of erosion or coastal damage that could affect the long-term viability of the property. Understanding these local factors is essential for anyone considering a property in these sought-after coastal locations.

East Devon boasts a diverse housing stock that reflects its history as a desirable coastal and rural district. The area features everything from Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses in town centres to substantial detached properties in sought-after locations like Sidmouth and the villages along the Otter Valley. Many properties in East Devon were constructed using traditional methods, with stone walls, solid brick construction, and traditional roof coverings that differ significantly from modern building techniques. Understanding these different construction methods is essential for identifying potential issues that might not be apparent in newer properties.

The coastal location of many East Devon towns brings specific considerations for property purchasers. Properties in Exmouth, Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, and along the Exe Estuary face potential risks from coastal erosion and tidal flooding, particularly those in low-lying areas or with seafront access. Our surveyors assess the condition of retaining walls, sea defences, and properties built on or near cliffs, noting any signs of erosion or coastal damage that could affect the long-term viability of the property. Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton in particular have ongoing coastal erosion concerns that affect properties in certain locations.

Conservation areas in towns like Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary, Honiton, and Budleigh Salterton contain significant numbers of listed buildings and period properties. These properties often require specialist consideration during the survey process, as they may have constraints on alterations and repairs that affect their maintenance and potential for modification. Our surveyors understand these local planning considerations and provide advice that reflects the unique characteristics of historic East Devon properties. If you're considering a listed building, we can highlight any specific concerns related to its heritage status and what that means for future maintenance and alterations.

The agricultural nature of much of East Devon means that rural properties, farmhouses, and cottages are common in the area. These properties often have different construction methods and may include features such as thatched roofs, cob walls, or stone-out buildings that require experienced assessment. Our surveyors are familiar with the construction methods typical of rural Devon and can identify issues specific to agricultural buildings and converted structures. Properties in rural areas may also have private water supplies or septic tanks that require different considerations from standard mains-connected properties.