RICS Level 2 Survey in North Huish

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows. The surveyor will examine the condition of the building's structure, identify any obvious defects, and flag areas requiring further investigation by specialists. For properties in North Huish, where traditional stone construction and cob buildings are common, our inspectors pay particular attention to the integrity of old walls, the condition of lime mortar pointing, and any signs of movement or subsidence that can affect older Devon properties.

The report includes a clear traffic light rating system showing conditions ranging from green (satisfactory) to red (urgent repair needed), along with practical advice on estimated repair costs and priorities. We specifically check for dampness using moisture meters, inspect timber for signs of rot or beetle infestation, and assess the condition of the roof covering and drainage systems. For the 39% of homes in North Huish that are four or more bedrooms, we ensure all accessible areas receive thorough examination, including any converted loft spaces, annexes, or outbuildings that may form part of the property.

Our surveyors also verify the property's tenure details and check for any legal issues or planning constraints that might affect your purchase. If the property is a listed building, as many traditional properties in the South Hams area are, we highlight any special considerations regarding listed building consent for future alterations. While North Huish itself is not a designated Conservation Area, the presence of historic buildings means our inspectors remain alert to preservation requirements that may affect renovation plans. We also examine any septic tanks, private water supplies, or other non-mains services that are common in this rural parish.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Damp and timber decay assessment
• Roof condition and drainage check
• Traffic light defect ratings
• Estimated repair cost guidance
• Legal and planning considerations

Properties in North Huish reflect the traditional building methods of South Devon, where local stone and cob have been the primary construction materials for centuries. Our surveyors are trained to identify issues specific to these traditional buildings, including deterioration of lime mortar pointing, movement in solid walls, and the condition of slate roofing that is characteristic of the region. The use of Devonian slates for both walls and roofing is a distinctive feature that requires specialist knowledge to assess accurately. Many walls are constructed from rubble stone, with brick used more sparingly for features like door and window openings, particularly in properties built from the 19th century onwards.

Many properties in the parish date from periods before modern building regulations, and our inspectors check that any subsequent alterations meet current standards and have not introduced structural problems. The high proportion of larger homes (39% with four or more bedrooms) means that outbuildings, extensions, and converted spaces receive particular attention during our inspection. We note any signs of inadequate ventilation or insulation that could lead to condensation and damp problems in traditional construction. The use of cob for higher sections of buildings is common in the area, and this material requires specific expertise to assess properly.

For properties with thatched roofs or period features, we provide specific guidance on maintenance requirements and advise on the specialist contractors who may be needed for repairs. The rural nature of North Huish also means that properties may have septic tanks, private water supplies, or oil-fired heating systems that fall outside standard utility inspections. Our survey highlights these matters so you understand the full scope of responsibilities before purchasing. We also check the condition of any private drainage systems, which are common in this rural area where properties may not be connected to mains sewerage.

The South Hams region, including North Huish, exhibits complex geology with Devonian slates and schists underlying much of the area. Our surveyors understand how local geological conditions can affect building foundations and are alert to signs of movement or settlement that may indicate underlying issues. While specific flood risk data for North Huish is limited, our inspectors examine drainage around the property and note any areas where water might accumulate or where the property may be susceptible to damp penetration given the local climate and topography.