RICS Level 2 Survey in Modbury

The RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is specifically designed for properties in conventional good condition. During the inspection, our surveyor will examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe access is possible, the exterior walls, windows and doors, and key internal elements such as the walls, floors, and ceilings. In Modbury, where we see a good mix of period cottages and more modern developments, the survey provides a clear red, amber, or green rating system that immediately highlights areas of concern.

For properties in the South Hams area, particular attention is given to common issues found in older Devon properties. Stone-built cottages and converted barns, which are prevalent in and around Modbury, often require careful assessment of their structural integrity, pointing, and any past renovation work. The survey will check for signs of damp, which can be a particular concern in older properties, as well as the condition of roofs, which in rural areas may have been replaced or repaired using traditional slate or stone tiles.

The resulting report provides you with a thorough understanding of the property's current condition, including an appraisal of the market value and a rebuild cost for insurance purposes. This is particularly valuable in Modbury, where the property market includes a range of property types from terraced houses around £322,500 to detached family homes approaching £500,000. Understanding the specific defects and maintenance requirements helps you negotiate appropriately with the seller or budget for any necessary works.

Our surveyors also check for any obvious signs of subsidence or movement, which can be a concern in properties built on certain soil types. We examine the condition of damp proof courses and ventilation, particularly in older properties where these may be absent or damaged. Windows and doors are checked for operation and condition, and any joinery issues are noted. The report also includes a basic assessment of the property's energy efficiency based on visible elements, helping you understand potential future heating costs.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof condition and coverings
• Damp and timber assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible evidence
• Exterior finishes and pointing
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Energy efficiency visible items

Modbury is a highly desirable market town in the South Hams district of Devon, offering a good range of property types from traditional stone cottages to modern family homes. The area has seen various periods of development, from historic period properties through to more recent constructions from the 2000s and 2010s. This variety means that properties in Modbury can present different challenges depending on their age and construction method. A RICS Level 2 survey is appropriate for properties in reasonable condition and provides the comprehensive assessment needed for conventional residential purchases.

The presence of listed buildings and period properties in and around Modbury means that some properties may require more specialist assessment. While the Level 2 survey is suitable for most properties, if you are considering a Grade II listed building such as the former toll house that can be found near the town, you may need to discuss additional requirements with your surveyor. The Level 2 survey will still identify many relevant issues, but listed buildings often have specific requirements regarding alterations and maintenance that are worth understanding before purchase.

For properties built in the last 20-30 years, the Level 2 survey provides that the property was constructed to appropriate standards and identifies any issues that may have emerged since construction. Even relatively new homes can have defects, and a professional survey will check everything from the quality of windows and doors to the condition of damp proofing and ventilation systems. With some properties in Modbury built as recently as 2017, the survey ensures you understand exactly what you are purchasing regardless of the property's age.

The South Hams area, including Modbury, has a significant proportion of older properties that benefit particularly from professional surveys. Many properties in the town and surrounding villages date from the Georgian and Victorian periods, with some cottages even older. These period properties often have traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern building practices, and our surveyors understand what to look for when assessing these older buildings. Common issues in older properties include outdated electrical wiring, aging roof structures, and the need for ongoing maintenance on traditional features.

• Period cottages (pre-1919 construction)
• Converted stone barns
• 1920s-1970s family homes
• Modern developments (post-2000)
• Listed and historic properties
• New build warranties checked