RICS Level 2 Survey Ivybridge

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space (where safe and accessible), walls, floors, windows, doors, and services. We check for signs of damp, structural movement, rot, insect infestation, and other defects. For Ivybridge properties, this includes assessing issues common to Victorian-era homes and properties near the River Erme. The report uses a traffic light system: green (no action needed), amber (repairs required), and red (serious issues needing urgent attention). We specifically look for problems associated with traditional Devon construction, including stone masonry deterioration and issues with historic damp proof courses that may have failed.

The cost of a RICS Level 2 Survey in Ivybridge typically starts from around £450 for a standard three-bedroom property. The exact price depends on factors such as the property size, its age, construction type, and location. Larger properties, those built before 1900 (which are common in Ivybridge's historic centre around Exeter Road and the town centre), or properties with complex features may cost more. The average house price in Ivybridge is £274,833, and investing in a survey is a small fraction of this cost that can save you significant money on future repairs. Properties in the Higher Mill area or modern developments may be at the lower end of the scale, while Victorian properties in conservation areas may incur additional charges due to their complexity.

Yes, even newbuild properties benefit from a RICS Level 2 Survey. While newer homes at developments like Filham Chase or Higher Mill are less likely to have major structural issues, a survey can identify snagging items, minor defects, or problems with build quality that the developer should rectify. Newbuild properties still come with warranties, and having a survey document any issues provides you with valuable evidence for warranty claims. For retirement apartments at Stowford Mill, a survey also checks the quality of communal areas and shared facilities. We recently surveyed a new property at a development near Ivybridge where we identified several snagging issues that the developer subsequently rectified.

Our RICS Level 2 Survey includes an assessment of obvious flood risk indicators, particularly relevant for properties in Ivybridge given the town's location on the River Erme. We note the property's position, drainage condition, and any visible signs of previous flooding. For mining subsidence, we look for signs of ground movement, cracking, or settlement that might indicate issues related to historical mining activity in the area, including the former Ivybridge Consols mine and the Filham arsenic mines. However, for a comprehensive assessment of flood or mining risk, we always recommend consulting the appropriate environmental searches. Given the history of mining in the Filham area and the china clay operations that continued until 1932, we pay particular attention to properties in these locations.

A RICS Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) is designed for properties in reasonable condition and provides a clear, concise assessment with condition ratings. A RICS Level 3 (Building Survey) is more detailed and suitable for older properties, those with obvious defects, or if you're planning major renovations. Given that Ivybridge has many Victorian properties, a Level 3 might be recommended for period homes with complex construction or if you intend to significantly extend or renovate. The Level 3 takes longer, costs more, and provides much more detailed advice on materials, construction methods, and maintenance requirements. If you're considering a Victorian terrace that hasn't been updated for decades, or a property at Stowford Mill that has been converted from commercial use, the additional detail of a Level 3 survey may be valuable.

The on-site inspection for a typical three-bedroom property in Ivybridge takes between 1 and 2 hours. Larger properties or those with complex features may take longer, particularly Victorian properties with multiple floors, outbuildings, or period features that require detailed inspection. You'll receive your written report within 3-5 working days of the inspection. If you need your report urgently, we offer an expedited service for an additional fee. We will discuss any significant issues with you at the property where appropriate, giving you an initial verbal summary before the written report arrives.

A RICS Level 2 Survey can include a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure as optional add-ons. The valuation is useful if you want confirmation that the property is worth the asking price, and the reinstatement figure helps with buildings insurance calculations. These additions are particularly useful for mortgage purposes, though your lender may arrange their own valuation separately. Our team can include these when you book your survey if required. With the average property price in Ivybridge at £274,833 and detached properties averaging £450,830, having an independent valuation can help ensure you're paying a fair price in the current market.

If the survey identifies Condition Rating 3 (serious defects requiring urgent attention), you have several options. You can request that the seller repair the issues before completion, negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to account for the repair costs, or in some cases, withdraw from the purchase if the issues are so severe that you no longer wish to proceed. Your survey report provides documented evidence of the issues, which gives you strong negotiating leverage. We've helped many buyers in Ivybridge renegotiate successfully after surveys revealed issues such as failing damp proof courses in Victorian properties or drainage problems in properties near the River Erme. We're happy to discuss the findings with you after you receive the report and help you understand your options.