RICS Level 2 Survey Ogwell

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a detailed assessment of the property's condition, focusing on all major visible elements including the roof, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp conditions. The surveyor will inspect both the interior and exterior of the property, accessing areas such as the roof space where safely possible, and examining the condition of timbers, insulation, and ventilation. Each section of the property receives a condition rating from one to three, with one being acceptable, two requiring repairs, and three indicating serious defects requiring urgent attention.

The survey includes a thorough damp assessment using moisture detection equipment, which is particularly important in older properties where rising damp or penetrating damp may have developed over time. We check all windows and doors for condition and operation, examine the integrity of pointing and brickwork, and assess the condition of roof coverings, flashings, and chimneys. Our inspectors also evaluate the property's electrical and plumbing systems, noting any obvious defects or areas that would require further investigation by qualified electricians or plumbers.

For properties in Ogwell, where many homes are likely to be several decades old or more, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of age-related wear and tear. This includes checking for rotten window frames, deteriorating render, and the condition of original features that may require ongoing maintenance. The survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost assessment, giving you a complete picture of your investment.

We examine the condition of outbuildings, garages, and boundary walls, as well as the overall site drainage and any visible signs of movement or settlement in the structure. Our surveyors take photographs throughout the inspection to support their findings, giving you a clear visual record of any issues identified. This comprehensive approach ensures you receive a complete picture of the property's condition before you commit to your purchase.

• Roof structure and coverings
• Walls, chimneys, and render
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and moisture detection
• Electrical and plumbing visible systems
• Floors, ceilings, and stairs
• Outbuildings and boundaries

The village of Ogwell offers an attractive mix of property types, with a significant proportion of detached and semi-detached homes in the area. Given the average property values in the village, a RICS Level 2 survey represents a small fraction of the purchase price but provides invaluable protection. Many properties in and around Ogwell will have been built during different eras, meaning they come with varying maintenance requirements and potential issues that only a professional survey can uncover.

Our surveyors have extensive experience inspecting properties throughout the Teignbridge district, including in Ogwell East, Ogwell West, and the surrounding areas. This local expertise means we understand the types of construction common to the region and can identify issues that may be particular to properties in this part of Devon. Whether you are purchasing a modern home or a character property with original features, our detailed inspection gives you the information you need to proceed with confidence.

The RICS Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation, which is particularly useful in the current Ogwell market where property prices have shown variation across different parts of the village. Recent data shows prices in some areas have increased significantly while others have seen corrections, making an accurate valuation an important part of your survey report. This helps ensure you are paying a fair price for the property in its current condition. For instance, while overall prices in Ogwell are 7% below their 2022 peak, West Ogwell has shown different trends compared to East Ogwell, making local knowledge valuable.

We also understand that many buyers in Ogwell are relocating from other areas and may not be familiar with the specific characteristics of properties in this part of Devon. Our surveyors can provide context about local construction methods and typical issues found in the area, helping you understand what to expect from your new property. This local insight, combined with our rigorous inspection process, gives you the best possible information to make your purchasing decision.

Your RICS Level 2 survey report is designed to be clear and easy to understand, with a traffic light rating system that immediately highlights areas of concern. The report begins with an executive summary that gives you an overview of the property's condition, followed by detailed sections covering each major building element. Where defects are found, the surveyor explains what the issue is, what caused it, and what remedial action may be required. This clear formatting helps you quickly identify the most important issues while also providing detailed background information for each finding.

For Ogwell properties, which may include older buildings with traditional construction, the report will note any age-related issues such as deterioration of original features, outdated electrical installations, or areas where maintenance has been neglected. The market valuation section provides an assessment of the property's current worth, taking into account its condition and the local market in Ogwell and Teignbridge. The rebuild cost figure is important for insurance purposes, ensuring you have adequate cover in the event of damage.

If the survey identifies issues that require further specialist investigation, such as structural concerns, timber decay, or electrical faults, the report will clearly recommend this. This allows you to make informed decisions about your purchase and budget appropriately for any remedial work that may be needed after completion. Your surveyor will explain the implications of any serious defects and discuss your options, whether that involves negotiating with the seller, requesting specific repairs, or reconsidering the purchase entirely.

We understand that navigating survey findings can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. Our team is available to discuss your report once you have had a chance to read it, answering any questions you may have and helping you understand the next steps. We want you to feel confident in your decision, whether that means proceeding with the purchase with full knowledge of the property's condition or using the survey findings to negotiate a better deal.