RICS Level 2 Survey George Nympton

The RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our chartered surveyors examine the walls, floors, ceilings, roof, bathrooms, and kitchens, looking for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, or subsidence. In George Nympton, where we see properties constructed from traditional cob, stone rubble, and roughcast materials, we pay particular attention to the condition of these historic building fabrics. The survey includes assessment of windows, doors, joinery, and the overall integrity of the building envelope.

Unlike a basic valuation, the Level 2 survey rates each element of the property on a clear traffic light system. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that need negotiating or repairing, and red flags serious issues that require urgent professional attention. This straightforward system helps you understand exactly what you are buying and empowers you to make informed decisions about proceeding with the purchase or requesting repairs or price reductions from the vendor.

The report also includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost, which proves invaluable for mortgage arrangements and future insurance purposes. For properties in George Nympton, where individual sales have ranged from £190,000 for terraced properties to £640,000 for detached homes, having an accurate valuation helps ensure you are not overpaying for your new home. The survey is particularly valuable for properties over 50 years old, of which George Nympton has many given its heritage of C17 and C19 houses. We have surveyed properties across The Row, Bowden Hayes, and the surrounding countryside, giving us extensive local experience.

Our inspection covers all key structural elements including load-bearing walls, floor structures, roof timbers, and the condition of any chimneys. We assess the condition of gutters and drainage systems, which is especially important in older properties where ironwork may be corroded. We also examine the condition of any outbuildings, boundary walls, and fences, giving you a complete picture of the property's overall condition.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Damp and moisture detection
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

George Nympton presents a fascinating mix of property types that benefit from professional survey attention. The village contains 16 listed buildings, ranging from the Grade II* Church of St George to various Grade II houses and structures throughout the parish. Properties constructed from traditional cob on stone rubble footings, such as West Trayne, require specialist understanding of how these materials perform in the local climate. The presence of older asbestos slate roofs, formerly thatched in some cases, is another feature our surveyors examine carefully. We understand that these traditional construction methods can develop issues over time, particularly with moisture exposure in the River Mole valley.

The recent new-build activity at Bowden Hayes, with planning permission granted by North Devon Council in February 2023, demonstrates the ongoing development in this attractive village. These modern properties, including a 3-bedroom bungalow of approximately 1,600 sq ft and a 4-bedroom house with a snug, represent the newer end of the housing spectrum. Even new builds benefit from a Level 2 survey to identify any construction defects or snagging issues before you complete the purchase. Our surveyors are familiar with both traditional and modern construction methods used in North Devon, and we apply the same thorough approach to every property we inspect regardless of age.

The village's location in the River Mole valley means our surveyors also consider potential environmental factors during their inspection. Properties in valley locations can be susceptible to surface water and water table issues, particularly after periods of heavy rain. We examine drainage around properties carefully and note any signs of water penetration or dampness that might indicate underlying issues. Understanding these local factors adds value to your survey report and helps you plan for any necessary mitigation or insurance considerations.

With a population mean age of 49.2 years, George Nympton attracts buyers seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle while remaining within easy reach of South Molton's excellent range of everyday services. Whether you are purchasing a period property full of character or a modern new build, our chartered surveyors provide the detailed information you need to make an informed decision about your investment in this beautiful North Devon village.

Our experience surveying properties throughout George Nympton has given us valuable insight into the types of defects commonly found in the local housing stock. Properties constructed from traditional cob, such as those found on The Row and surrounding lanes, can be susceptible to damp penetration if the external render has deteriorated. We frequently identify issues with wall ties in older cavity wall constructions and signs of settlement in properties built on the valley floor. Understanding these common issues helps us provide you with a thorough assessment of any property you are considering purchasing.

Roof conditions are another area where we frequently identify issues in George Nympton properties. Many older properties retain their original asbestos slate roofs, which require careful assessment for damage and deterioration. We check for cracked or missing slates, damaged flashings, and the condition of roof timbers. Properties that were formerly thatched and have since been re-roofed may have underlying timber issues that require investigation. Our surveyors know what to look for and will recommend further inspection by a roofing specialist where necessary.

Damp and moisture penetration represents one of the most common issues we identify in George Nympton properties, particularly in older buildings with solid walls. The valley location and North Devon's wet climate can exacerbate moisture problems if properties have not been adequately maintained. We use our expertise to identify both obvious signs of damp and more subtle indicators such as staining, peeling paintwork, or musty odours that may indicate underlying moisture issues. Early identification of damp problems allows you to budget for necessary remediation works.

Outbuildings and boundary features are often overlooked but can represent significant maintenance liabilities. Many George Nympton properties include traditional stone outbuildings, barns, or garden walls that may be in poor condition. Our survey includes a thorough assessment of all ancillary structures and boundary features, ensuring you have a complete picture of the property's overall condition before you commit to your purchase.