RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Braunton

Our Level 2 survey examines all accessible parts of the property, including the structure, walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, damp levels, and key building services. In Braunton's properties, we pay particular attention to common issues in local housing stock, checking for damp in solid walls, timber decay in roof structures, roof tile condition, and any signs of structural movement. The report provides clear condition ratings using our traffic light system and includes recommendations for any repairs or further investigations needed. We understand the specific challenges faced by properties in North Devon, including exposure to coastal weather conditions that can accelerate wear on external finishes.

Most Level 2 surveys in the Braunton area take between 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the property. Smaller properties such as one-bedroom flats or terraced houses may be completed in closer to two hours, while larger detached homes with outbuildings will require more time for thorough inspection. Our surveyor will spend adequate time examining every accessible area, including any lofts, cellars, and outbuildings, before compiling your detailed report. We never rush inspections, ensuring we capture all relevant findings.

We aim to deliver your completed RICS Level 2 report within 3-5 working days of the property inspection, giving you ample time to review the findings before any contractual deadlines. In most cases, reports are provided within this timeframe, and we'll always aim to accommodate tighter timescales where possible. Once your report is ready, you'll receive it via email along with a summary highlighting the key findings. Our team is available to discuss any questions you might have about the report contents.

Absolutely. If our survey identifies significant defects, you can use the findings to negotiate a reduced purchase price or request that the seller addresses specific issues before completion. In the current Braunton market, where properties can exceed £500,000, identifying even minor issues through a survey can provide useful negotiation leverage. Common findings that our surveys have identified in Braunton properties include roof defects, damp issues, outdated electrical wiring, and structural movement. These findings give you concrete evidence to support any price negotiation discussion with the seller.

A Level 2 (Homebuyer Survey) provides a detailed visual inspection with clear condition ratings, suitable for most properties in reasonable condition and representing the industry standard for home buyers. A Level 3 (Building Survey) offers a more comprehensive analysis, including guidance on the property's construction, detailed defect diagnosis, and expected future maintenance costs. For older Braunton properties, those showing significant wear, or buildings with visible defects, a Level 3 may be more appropriate. Our team can advise on which survey level best suits your specific property when you book.

Even new build properties can benefit from a Level 2 survey, despite being constructed more recently. While newer constructions typically have fewer issues than older properties, our survey can identify any defects in the build quality, snagging issues, or problems with fixtures and fittings that the developer should address. Common issues we find in newer properties include incomplete insulation installation, minor defects in window seals, and incomplete finishing work. A survey on a new build provides independent verification of the property's condition, giving you before moving into what should be your dream home.

If our surveyor identifies serious issues, the report will clearly flag these with red condition ratings and recommend further investigations by specialists such as structural engineers or damp specialists. You can then decide whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate on price, or request that the seller carries out repairs before completion. We're happy to discuss the findings with you and explain your options, helping you understand the severity of any issues identified. In some cases, the survey findings may give you sufficient grounds to withdraw from the purchase without losing your deposit.

The wider EX33 area includes several listed buildings, particularly in the surrounding villages, and our surveyors are experienced in identifying features that may be affected by listing constraints. If you're purchasing a listed property, we recommend discussing this with our team as certain issues may require listed building consent for repair work. Our standard Level 2 survey can still identify the same defects, but we'll note where the listing status may affect future repair options. For properties in conservation areas, similar considerations apply, and we'll highlight any relevant planning constraints in our report.

Braunton's proximity to the North Devon coast means that many properties experience accelerated wear from wind, rain, and salt-laden air. External finishes such as render, paintwork, and timber windows may deteriorate more quickly than in inland areas. Our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of external joinery, roof coverings, and wall surfaces when inspecting properties in this area. We also check for signs of penetrating damp that may be more prevalent in properties exposed to prevailing weather conditions. Understanding these local factors helps us provide a more accurate assessment of the property's true condition.