RICS Level 2 Home Survey in Kilkhampton

A RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and highlighting any significant defects or areas requiring attention. Our surveyor will examine the walls, floors, ceilings, roof, windows, doors, and key installations such as plumbing, electrical systems, and heating. The survey includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, giving you a complete picture of the property's worth and the potential costs involved in any repairs or improvements needed.

The survey uses a simple traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element: red for urgent repairs requiring immediate attention, amber for defects that need repairing but are not urgent, and green for satisfactory condition. This clear format makes it easy to understand which issues require negotiation with the seller before completing your purchase. For properties in Kilkhampton, where we see a mix of older character homes, modern new builds, and holiday lets, this detailed assessment is invaluable in understanding exactly what you are buying.

One of the key benefits of the Level 2 survey is that it includes advice on legal requirements and an assessment of the property's energy efficiency. Our surveyor will flag any potential legal issues, such as missing building regulations approvals or issues with boundaries, and provide recommendations for improving the property's energy performance. This is particularly relevant for older properties in Kilkhampton, where insulation and heating systems may not meet modern standards, and for holiday homes that may have specific energy efficiency requirements.

Our inspections cover all major building elements systematically. We assess the structural integrity of load-bearing walls, examine roof coverings and chimneys for signs of wear or damage, check for damp and rot in vulnerable areas, test windows and doors for proper operation, review plumbing pipework and fittings, and evaluate the condition of electrical installations. Each element receives a condition rating, giving you a clear picture of the property's overall state.

• Structural assessment
• Roof and chimney condition
• Damp and rot detection
• Window and door functionality
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Energy efficiency rating

The property market in Kilkhampton presents unique considerations for buyers. The village has seen a mix of property types, from traditional cottages to new developments, and the recent sales data shows that detached properties dominate the market, accounting for over 63% of transactions in 2025. With average prices for detached homes reaching £371,889 and the overall market showing some price adjustment (prices are approximately 6-9% down on previous peaks), obtaining an independent survey is essential to ensure you are paying a fair price for the property's actual condition.

The proximity to Bude and the North Cornish coastline means that many properties in the area, particularly those closer to the coast, may be exposed to coastal weather conditions that can affect building materials and finishes. Salt air and strong winds can accelerate wear on external surfaces, roofs, and windows, and our surveyors know what to look for when assessing properties in this environment. Additionally, Kilkhampton's popularity as a village with holiday parks and tourism means that some properties may be used as holiday lets, which can affect insurance requirements and mortgage eligibility.

The village benefits from good local amenities including a primary school, range of shops, and village pub, making it attractive for families and retirees alike. However, the mix of older character homes and newer developments means that property conditions can vary significantly. Our Level 2 survey is designed to give you confidence in your purchase, whether you are buying a modern new build or an older property that may require more maintenance. The survey highlights any issues that could affect the property's value or require investment in the future, allowing you to make your decision with complete information.

The local housing stock in Kilkhampton reflects the broader characteristics of North Cornwall, with a mix of property ages and construction types. Many older properties in the village will have traditional solid wall construction, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration than modern cavity wall builds. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these traditional construction methods and can identify any areas where remedial work may be needed to bring the property up to a satisfactory standard.

• New build properties at Bramble Lane and The Stables Mews
• Traditional cottages and period homes
• Modern family homes in residential areas
• Holiday lets and investment properties

Based on our experience surveying properties in the Kilkhampton area, we have identified several issues that buyers should be aware of. Many older properties in the village were built with solid wall construction, which can be more prone to damp penetration than modern cavity wall properties. Our surveyors are trained to identify the signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation, and will recommend appropriate action if any of these issues are found.

The coastal location of Kilkhampton means that properties can be exposed to salt-laden winds, which can accelerate the deterioration of external timbers, metal fixtures, and certain types of render. We often find that roof coverings on older properties show signs of moss growth and tile deterioration, particularly on north-facing slopes that receive less sunlight. External joinery such as windows and doors may also show signs of rot or decay that requires attention.

Many properties in the area use oil-fired or electric heating systems, particularly older homes that were not designed for modern central heating. We check the condition of these systems and will note any signs of age, corrosion, or inefficient operation. For properties that have been converted for holiday let use, there may be additional considerations around fire safety compliance and electrical testing that our survey can highlight.

If you are considering a property at one of the new developments such as Bramble Lane or The Stables Mews, our survey can still identify any defects in the construction or finishes. Even new builds can have issues ranging from minor cosmetic defects to more serious problems with insulation, waterproofing, or structural elements. Our thorough inspection ensures you have a complete picture of the property's condition at the time of purchase.