RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey Kingskerswell

The RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey, formerly known as the Homebuyer Report, provides a detailed assessment of a property's condition without the invasive inspections included in a Level 3 Building Survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe and accessible, the exterior walls, windows and doors, plumbing and electrical systems, and the overall structural integrity of the building. This visual inspection follows RICS guidelines strictly to ensure consistency and thoroughness.

In Kingskerswell, where the housing stock includes a mix of period properties and more modern developments, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in local properties. The village's proximity to the River Teign and its position in Devon means we specifically check for signs of damp, roof condition, and any evidence of movement that might indicate subsidence or ground instability. Properties in the area, particularly those along low-lying roads near watercourses, require careful assessment for moisture-related issues.

The resulting survey report uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight conditions ranging from "green" (no repair needed) through "amber" (defects requiring attention) to "red" (serious issues requiring urgent repair). This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you are purchasing and provides you with negotiation leverage if significant repairs are needed. Each section of the report includes our professional opinion on the condition and recommended actions.

Our Level 2 Surveys include assessment of boundaries, outbuildings, and grounds, as well as evaluation of services such as water, gas, electricity, and drainage. We cannot dismantle fitted kitchens or move heavy furniture, but we do everything reasonably possible within a visual inspection to build a complete picture of the property condition.

• Structural condition assessment
• Damp and moisture detection
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Window and door condition
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Boundary and outbuilding assessment

Properties in Kingskerswell reflect the broader construction patterns found throughout Devon, with a mix of traditional and modern building methods. Many of the older properties in the village were constructed using local stone and brick with rendered external walls, a characteristic feature of the Teignbridge area. These traditional construction methods, while aesthetically pleasing, can present specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify.

The semi-detached and terraced properties that make up a significant portion of the local housing stock often feature solid floors rather than suspended timber floors, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration. Our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of solid floors in ground floor rooms, checking for signs of moisture ingress that might indicate failed damp proof courses or inadequate ventilation.

Detached properties in the Kingskerswell area, which command the highest average prices at around £406,000, often feature more complex roof structures with multiple valleys and penetrations. These roof configurations are particularly vulnerable to weather damage given Devon's exposure to Atlantic weather systems. Our inspectors examine roof coverings, flashings, and gutters with extra care on these properties, looking for signs of wear, missing tiles, or improper installation that could lead to future leaks.

Many properties in the area have been extended over the years, with single-storey rear extensions being particularly common. These extensions often feature flat roofs, which require specialist assessment for ponding water and membrane deterioration. Our surveyors inspect all extension roofs carefully, as these are frequently the source of significant repair requirements in older properties.

Our experience surveying properties throughout the Kingskerswell area has revealed several recurring defect patterns that buyers should be aware of. Damp-related issues rank among the most common problems we identify, particularly in properties that have been poorly maintained or lack adequate ventilation. The Devon climate, with its higher than average rainfall, accelerates moisture penetration in buildings that are not properly maintained.

Roof defects feature prominently in our survey findings for Kingskerswell properties. Missing or slipped tiles, deteriorated ridge tiles, and damaged flashings around chimneys are issues we encounter regularly. Given the age of much of the housing stock in the village, roof coverings are often approaching the end of their useful life, and our reports clearly highlight when replacement or significant repair will be required. This information proves invaluable for budgeting purposes.

We frequently identify issues with uPVC windows and doors that have not been properly maintained, including failed hinges, broken seals in double-glazed units, and poorly adjusted mechanisms. While these issues may seem minor, they can significantly affect the energy efficiency and security of a property. Our reports document all such defects with photographic evidence and recommended remedies.

Electrical safety concerns are another common finding in our Kingskerswell surveys. Properties that have not been updated in recent years often feature outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, and aged wiring that does not meet current regulations. While our survey is visual only and does not involve testing, we can identify obvious safety hazards and recommend that a qualified electrician conduct a more detailed inspection.

Your RICS Level 2 Survey report from Homemove provides a comprehensive assessment of the property condition using the RICS traffic light system. The report begins with an executive summary that gives you an immediate overview of the property's overall condition, followed by detailed sections covering each area of the property from the roof down to the foundations. This structured approach ensures you can quickly identify the most important issues while also delving into specific details as needed.

For properties in Kingskerswell, our surveyors pay special attention to the condition of roofs, which can be particularly vulnerable to the Devon weather. We inspect roof coverings, flashings, gutters, and chimneys, looking for signs of damage, missing tiles, or deterioration that could lead to leaks. We also examine the condition of flat roofs, which are common on extensions and modern properties in the area. Any defects found are clearly flagged with amber or red ratings depending on severity.

The report includes clear guidance on any urgent defects that require immediate attention, as well as recommendations for future maintenance that will help protect your property investment. Our surveyors provide estimated costs for repairs where possible, helping you budget for any work needed after purchase. This information proves particularly valuable when negotiating the purchase price with the seller. We always include professional guidance on the priority of any works identified.

The final sections of your report cover legal matters that require your attention, including any rights of way, planning permissions, or building regulation approvals that may affect the property. We also highlight any matters that you should discuss with your solicitor before completing the purchase. This comprehensive approach ensures you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your Kingskerswell property.