RICS Level 2 Survey Farway

The average property price in Farway stands at £500,000 following a significant 45% decrease from the previous year, though recent sales data shows properties fetching between £800,000 and £910,000 in late 2024. This substantial investment makes a thorough survey essential before committing to a purchase. Our RICS Level 2 survey gives you a professional assessment of the property's condition, highlighting any defects that could impact its value or require expensive repairs. Whether you are considering a detached property averaging £784,869 or a smaller flat around £613,000, our detailed report helps you make an informed decision.

Farway's housing stock presents unique challenges that our surveyors know well. With numerous properties dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, traditional construction using local stone rubble, cob, and Beerstone ashlar is prevalent. These historic buildings often lack modern damp-proofing and may have thatched roofs requiring specialist inspection. Our surveyors understand how to identify issues common to older properties, including rising damp, deteriorating timber, and aging infrastructure that might not be apparent during a casual viewing. We have inspected properties throughout the village, from those along the River Coly to those on the higher ground near Farway Countryside Park.

The village's location on the River Coly means some properties may have flood risk considerations, particularly those immediately adjacent to the river or in lower-lying areas. Our inspectors assess drainage and flood-related vulnerabilities as part of the standard survey. Additionally, with many properties in the area being listed buildings or within conservation considerations, understanding any restrictions or required maintenance is crucial for future ownership. Farway Primary School serves local families, and the village's rural character means properties often come with land or outbuildings that require specific assessment.

Recent sales in Farway illustrate the range of properties available. Ball Farm on EX24 6EQ sold for £800,000 in December 2024, while Summercroft on EX24 6EF achieved £910,000 in September 2024. These significant investments underscore why a professional survey is vital. We also note that planning activity continues in the area, with applications at properties like The Pavilion (a modern replacement dwelling), Holnest Farm, and Goldacre Farm indicating ongoing development interest in this desirable village location.

• Identify structural issues and defects
• Assess roof condition and insulation
• Check for damp and timber decay
• Evaluate plumbing and electrical condition
• Review boundaries and exterior finishes
• Provide clear RICS-approved recommendations

Our experience surveying properties across East Devon means we know what to look for in Farway's distinctive housing stock. Traditional properties built with solid walls often lack adequate damp-proof courses, making rising damp a common finding. Penetrating damp can occur through cracked render or deteriorating external features, particularly on properties with older pointing. Our surveyors inspect walls, floors, and joinery to identify signs of moisture damage that could worsen over time. Properties like those along the River Coly are particularly susceptible to moisture-related issues given the proximity to water and the age of traditional construction methods.

Roof conditions require careful assessment in Farway, where thatch remains a feature on historic farmhouses and properties may have complex rooflines with multiple valleys. Broken or missing tiles, deteriorating ridge mortar, and inadequate insulation are frequently identified issues. Many older properties also have chimneys that show signs of instability, with crumbling brickwork or damaged flashings that could lead to water ingress. Our inspectors are familiar with the traditional roofing materials used in the area, including the local thatch and natural slate that characterise many period properties.

Structural movement is another key concern in this area. Properties on clay soils can experience subsidence, particularly where large trees are present near foundations. Our surveyors look for diagonal cracks, step-like fissures, or signs of settlement that might indicate underlying structural issues. We also assess timber elements for rot and woodworm damage, especially in areas with poor ventilation or previous damp problems. The age of many Farway properties means timber framing and structural joints may have deteriorated over centuries of use.

Infrastructure issues are commonly identified in Farway's older properties. Electrical wiring may not meet current regulations and could pose fire risks. Plumbing systems may include outdated materials or lead pipework that requires replacement. Heating systems are often aging and inefficient, contributing to high energy costs in properties with poor insulation. Many properties in Farway retain original single-glazed windows and minimal wall insulation, which our surveyors note in our energy efficiency assessments.

Given Farway's location within the East Devon National Landscape (formerly an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), conservation considerations also play a role in property assessments. Properties within conservation areas or those with listed building status may have restrictions on alterations or repairs. Our surveyors understand these considerations and can advise on the implications for future ownership and renovation plans. Whether you are considering a property like Poltimore Farmhouse (one of the best examples of a traditional lowland Devon farmhouse in East Devon) or a modern replacement dwelling, we provide comprehensive assessments that account for both construction condition and regulatory considerations.