RICS Level 2 Survey in Holcombe Burnell

The village of Holcombe Burnell, nestled in the Teignbridge district of Devon, offers a quintessential rural lifestyle while remaining accessible to Exeter. Recent sales data shows detached properties dominate the local market, accounting for 29 out of 40 recorded sales in the parish since 2018. With property values in this area significantly higher than the national average, the financial risk associated with purchasing without a survey is considerable. A Level 2 survey provides essential protection for buyers investing in this sought-after Devon village.

Properties in Holcombe Burnell include a mix of traditional Devon houses, period barn conversions, and modern detached homes. Many properties in the broader EX6 area are listed buildings, with Grade II listed farmhouses and cottages featuring in local listings. These older properties, while full of character, can harbor hidden defects that only a trained eye will spot. Our surveyors understand the construction methods typical of Devon properties, from traditional stone walls to slate roofing, and know what to look for when inspecting homes in this area.

The local housing stock shows a healthy mix of property types, though detached homes clearly predominate. With semi-detached properties averaging around £332,250 and terraced properties at approximately £376,000 based on historical sales data, buyers across the price spectrum benefit from professional survey coverage. The 2024 sales in Holcombe Burnell, which included terraced, semi-detached, and detached properties with an average price of £543,500, demonstrate the variety available in this attractive parish.

Rural Devon properties often present unique challenges that differ from urban homes. Properties in the Holcombe Burnell area may rely on private water supplies, septic tanks, or oil-fired heating systems that require specialist assessment. Our surveyors check these services during the inspection and advise you on their condition and any maintenance requirements. This level of detail is particularly valuable in rural areas where standard mortgage valuations may not adequately address these non-mains utilities.

• Protect your investment
• Identify hidden defects
• Negotiate on price
• Plan for future repairs

The RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's condition, covering all major structural elements and building services. Our surveyors examine the roof space where accessible, looking at the condition of rafters, insulation, and any signs of damp or rot. They inspect external walls for cracks, movement, or deterioration, and check windows, doors, and joinery for condition and operation. The survey includes assessment of damp levels using professional moisture meters, identification of timber defects, and evaluation of the property's overall structural integrity.

Inside the property, we inspect the condition of walls, floors, and ceilings, looking for signs of cracking, settlement, or water damage. We examine kitchen and bathroom fittings, checking for water leaks and assessing the condition of tiles and seals. Our surveyors also inspect the property's heating system, electrical consumer unit, and visible pipework, noting any obvious safety concerns or items requiring professional attention. The report highlights areas that do not meet current building regulations or standards, giving you a clear picture of any work that may be needed.

Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, which only confirms the property is worth the loan amount, the Level 2 survey provides practical advice about the property's condition and any repairs needed. In Holcombe Burnell, where many properties are older or converted, this detailed assessment is particularly valuable. The survey uses the RICS condition rating system, with ratings from 1 (no issues) to 3 (serious defects requiring urgent attention), making it easy to understand which issues are cosmetic and which require immediate action.

We also assess the property's thermal elements as part of the survey. Our surveyors will advise on the condition of walls, floors, and roofs where insulation is present, and note any areas where thermal performance could be improved. This is particularly relevant for older properties in the Holcombe Burnell area, where solid wall construction may mean lower insulation standards than modern buildings.

• Structural inspection
• Damp and timber assessment
• Roof condition check
• Electrical safety review
• Thermal element advice
• Legal considerations summary

Your RICS Level 2 survey report is designed to be clear and easy to understand, even if you have no previous experience with property surveys. The report uses a consistent rating system that allows you to quickly identify which issues are most serious. Condition Rating 1 (green) indicates no issues requiring immediate attention, while Condition Rating 2 (amber) denotes defects that require attention but are not immediately serious. Condition Rating 3 (red) highlights serious defects that require urgent professional attention before proceeding with the purchase.

Each section of the report includes a detailed description of what our surveyor found, with photographs illustrating key issues. We explain the cause of any defects identified and provide practical advice on how they should be repaired. Where necessary, we recommend that you obtain specialist reports from other professionals, such as structural engineers or electrical contractors, before completing your purchase. In Holcombe Burnell, where properties may be older or of non-standard construction, such specialist advice can be particularly valuable.

The report also includes a section on legal considerations, highlighting any issues that your conveyancing solicitor should investigate further. This may include boundaries, rights of way, or planning permissions for alterations. By combining technical inspection with legal awareness, the Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive overview of the property you're proposing to buy, enabling you to make an informed decision.

Once you receive your report, we don't just disappear. Our team is on hand to discuss any aspects of the survey that you'd like clarified. We can explain technical terms, advise on the severity of any issues found, and help you understand your options for moving forward. Whether you need to renegotiate the purchase price or simply want before completing, we're here to help.