RICS Level 2 Survey in Great Elm

The housing stock in Great Elm presents unique challenges that make a RICS Level 2 Survey essential for any purchaser. A significant proportion of properties in the village date from before 1919, particularly within the Conservation Area that covers much of the historic core. These older properties, while full of character with their traditional stone walls, clay tile roofs, and original features, often conceal issues that only an experienced surveyor would identify. Our team has inspected hundreds of properties across the Mendip area, and we know exactly what to look for in period Somerset homes.

Properties built with local Bath stone or limestone are prevalent throughout the village, and while visually attractive, these materials require specific knowledge to assess properly. Stone pointing can deteriorate over time, allowing penetrating damp to enter the structure. The local geology also includes areas of clay, which can cause shrink-swell movement affecting foundations, particularly where mature trees are present near properties. Our surveyors examine these factors carefully, checking for signs of movement or deterioration that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.

Surface water flooding represents a localised risk in certain parts of Great Elm, especially near smaller watercourses and depressions that run through the village. The Environment Agency flood maps indicate some areas have medium to high risk from surface water flooding, particularly after heavy rainfall. Our surveyors specifically check for signs of previous water damage, drainage issues, and the condition of ground-level elements that might be affected by flooding. Understanding these area-specific risks helps you make an informed decision about your potential new home.

The Mendip Hills region has a historical legacy of mineral mining, and while Great Elm itself is not a major mining area, our surveyors remain aware of potential ground stability issues that can affect properties in this part of Somerset. We check for any signs of ground movement or historical mining activity that might impact the property's structural integrity. This local knowledge, combined with our RICS training, ensures you receive a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond what a generic survey would provide.

• Traditional stone construction assessment
• Damp and condensation analysis
• Roof and leadwork inspection
• Foundation and subsidence check
• Surface water flood risk evaluation
• Electrical and plumbing condition review

Our experience surveying properties across Great Elm and the wider Mendip area has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems feature prominently, particularly rising damp in older properties that may lack modern damp-proof courses or where the original damp-proof membrane has failed over time. Penetrating damp is also common, especially in properties with aging stone pointing or where leadwork on roofs has deteriorated. Given the village's age profile, with many properties pre-dating modern building regulations, these issues are frequently encountered during our inspections.

Timber defects represent another significant category of issues we encounter in Great Elm properties. Wet rot and dry rot can affect structural timbers, particularly in properties with long-standing roof leaks or inadequate ventilation. Woodworm infestation is frequently found in older properties with original timber frames, windows, and floorboards. Our surveyors carefully inspect all accessible timber elements, including roof rafters, floor joists, and window joinery, flagging any concerns in your report with clear recommendations for treatment or repair.

Electrical and plumbing systems in properties over 50 years old often require updating to meet current safety standards. We identify outdated consumer units, old wiring that may not comply with modern regulations, and plumbing systems that could be approaching the end of their serviceable life. Many properties in Great Elm still have original lead piping or galvanised steel water supplies that should be replaced. These findings are clearly highlighted in your survey report so you can factor potential upgrade costs into your purchase decision.

Roof conditions are a frequent concern in this area, with many properties featuring traditional clay tiles or natural slate that can deteriorate over time. We frequently find slipped tiles, damaged ridge tiles, and deteriorated leadwork around chimneys and valleys. In some cases, the felt underlay behind tiles has failed, allowing water penetration into the roof structure. Our thorough inspection of all accessible roof spaces ensures these issues are identified before they cause significant damage to your new property.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Roof tile/slate damage
• Deteriorated leadwork
• Outdated electrical systems
• Foundation movement indicators