RICS Level 2 Survey in Loddiswell

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our surveyor will examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, chimneys, and extensions, looking for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, or other defects. In Loddiswell, where many properties retain their period character and traditional construction methods using local stone and render, our surveyors pay particular attention to the unique challenges that older properties present. The survey includes an assessment of the property's overall condition and identifies any issues that may require further investigation or immediate attention.

We also inspect the services within the property, including the electrical system, heating, and drainage. While we do not test the systems extensively, we will note any obvious defects or areas of concern. For properties in the South Hams area, where older drainage systems and outdated electrical wiring are common in period homes, this assessment can reveal issues that might otherwise remain hidden until after you have completed your purchase. The survey report includes practical recommendations for any repairs or maintenance that should be carried out.

Loddiswell's housing stock presents specific surveying challenges that our team understands well. With the majority of homes being terraced properties (53.8% of recent sales) and many dating back to the Victorian or Edwardian periods, we routinely encounter solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls. This affects how damp behaves in properties and requires specific knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors have inspected hundreds of similar properties across Devon and understand exactly what to look for.

The survey also covers external elements including boundary walls, fences, and any outbuildings such as garages or sheds. For properties with large gardens, which are common in the Loddiswell area, we will assess the condition of any retaining walls or structures that may be present. Our comprehensive approach ensures you have a complete picture of the property's condition.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proof course, and render
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Chimneys and flues
• Floors, stairs, and balconies
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Electrical and gas services
• Boundaries and outbuildings

After the inspection, you will receive a comprehensive survey report that clearly presents our findings. The report uses a simple traffic light system to rate the condition of different elements: green indicates no significant issues, amber flags issues that require attention but are not urgent, and red highlights serious defects that may affect the property's value or safety. Each section includes a detailed explanation of our findings and practical recommendations for addressing any problems we identify.

For properties in Loddiswell, our reports frequently highlight issues common to older Devon properties. These may include signs of damp penetration in solid walls, wear to slate or tile roofing, deterioration of pointing and render, and outdated electrical installations. The report will also advise on whether any issues require further investigation by a specialist, such as a structural engineer or damp specialist. This level of detail ensures you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your property purchase.

We deliver your report within 3-5 working days of the inspection, and we follow up with a phone call from your surveyor to discuss the key findings personally. This direct communication allows you to ask questions about any issues raised and understand exactly what they mean for your potential purchase. We believe this personal service sets us apart from larger survey firms.

• Clear condition ratings for each element
• Detailed descriptions of any defects found
• Prioritised recommendations for repairs
• Guidance on next steps and specialist referrals
• Market valuation (optional)
• Insurance rebuild cost (optional)

Properties in the South Hams area, including Loddiswell, often feature traditional construction methods that differ from modern buildings. Many homes in this area were built using solid walls rather than cavity walls, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration if the external render or internal plaster has been damaged. Our surveyors are trained to identify the signs of both rising damp and penetrating damp, which are common issues in older Devon properties, particularly those with solid wall construction.

Roof conditions are another frequent area of concern in this region. Many properties feature slate or clay tile roofs that, while durable, can suffer from cracked or slipped tiles, deterioration of mortar pointing, and issues with flashing around chimneys and valleys. Given Loddiswell's rural setting and exposure to weather from the coast, these issues can lead to water ingress if not addressed. Our survey includes a thorough assessment of the roof structure and covering, identifying any areas where repairs may be needed.

The local geology in parts of Devon can include clay soils, which pose a shrink-swell risk that may affect foundations over time. While Loddiswell itself does not have a known mining history, our surveyors remain vigilant for signs of settlement or structural movement that could indicate underlying ground conditions affecting the property. We check for cracking patterns in walls and doors or windows that stick, which can signal movement.

Electrical systems in older properties are a common concern. Many period homes in the area still have original wiring that would not meet current regulations, and this can represent both a safety hazard and an insurance issue. Our survey will note the approximate age and condition of the electrical installation and recommend that a qualified electrician carries out a more detailed inspection if needed.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and slipped slates
• Render and pointing deterioration
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Plumbing systems
• Chimney condition and flashing
• Window and door joinery rot
• Subsidence or structural movement