RICS Level 2 Survey in Goathurst

Goathurst sits in the heart of the Somerset countryside, approximately four miles northeast of Bridgwater. The village features a mix of property types, from substantial detached homes to historic cottages that date back centuries. One notable property in the area has been traced back to the mid-1600s, demonstrating the wealth of character properties in this location. This aged housing stock brings significant charm but also requires careful examination by experienced surveyors who understand traditional construction methods.

The predominant use of local stone, brick, and render in Goathurst properties reflects the building traditions of Somerset. These materials, while beautiful and durable, can present specific challenges that only a trained eye will identify. Our surveyors examine the condition of stonework, assess mortar pointing, and evaluate render finishes for signs of deterioration. Understanding how these traditional materials respond to the local climate is essential for accurate property assessment. In our experience inspecting properties across Somerset, we frequently find that older stone walls require particular attention to their mortar condition, especially where exposure to prevailing winds has caused erosion over decades.

Properties in rural villages like Goathurst often face unique considerations that differ from urban properties. The proximity to agricultural land can influence damp conditions, while the age of properties means that outdated electrical systems and plumbing are common concerns. Our Level 2 surveys specifically address these issues, providing you with a clear picture of any remedial work that may be required now or in the near future. We have found that many properties in the Goathurst area still rely on older consumer units and galvanised steel pipework that would benefit from upgrading.

Unlike the neighbouring town of Bridgwater where newer developments have appeared in recent years, Goathurst itself has very few if any new-build properties. This means that virtually every property you consider in the village will be either a historic character home or a property constructed between the 1920s and 1980s. Each era brings its own specific construction characteristics and potential defects. Our surveyors understand these patterns and can identify issues that might otherwise go unnoticed by buyers who are unfamiliar with the particular quirks of Somerset property construction.

• Traditional construction materials
• Age-related structural concerns
• Outdated electrical systems
• Drainage and damp assessment
• Roof condition and age
• Energy efficiency considerations

Once you receive your RICS Level 2 Survey report for your Goathurst property, you will find a comprehensive breakdown of the property's condition. The report covers ten main areas including grounds, dampness, walls, roof, chimneys, joinery, bathrooms, windows, external doors, and internal joinery. Each section receives a condition rating that immediately signals the severity of any issues found. This systematic approach ensures that no area of the property is overlooked during the assessment process.

For properties in Goathurst, particular attention should be paid to the age-related findings. With many properties in the village dating back decades or even centuries, roof conditions often reveal their age through slipped tiles, deteriorated flashing, or worn thatch. Our surveyors carefully assess the remaining lifespan of roofing materials and flag any immediate concerns that could lead to water ingress. We have encountered numerous properties in the area where roof coverings were original to the building and had exceeded their expected lifespan.

The damp assessment is particularly relevant for Goathurst properties, where traditional solid walls lack the cavity insulation found in modern construction. Our surveyors measure moisture levels and identify signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. These issues are common in older Somerset properties but can be effectively addressed once identified. We use professional moisture meters and thermal imaging equipment where appropriate to detect damp that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

Electrical and plumbing inspections form part of the visual assessment, with our surveyors noting the age and condition of visible installations. While a full electrical test requires a qualified electrician, our survey highlights obvious concerns such as outdated consumer units, visible wiring, or plumbing materials that have exceeded their expected lifespan. In older Goathurst properties, we frequently note the presence of rubber-sheathed cabling or galvanized steel pipes that would benefit from modern replacements.

• Roof and chimney condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical installations
• Plumbing and drainage
• Windows and doors
• Structural integrity