RICS Level 2 Survey in Ottery St. Mary

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, identifying any significant issues that could affect its value or require expensive repairs. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property including the roof, walls, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp conditions. In Ottery St. Mary, where many properties date back to the Georgian and Victorian periods, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in older buildings such as damp penetration, outdated electrical wiring, and the condition of traditional roofing materials. We have inspected hundreds of properties in this area and know exactly what to look for in local housing stock.

The survey includes a detailed assessment of the property's structural integrity, checking for signs of subsidence, movement, or settlement that can be particularly relevant in areas with certain soil types. Our inspectors also evaluate the condition of windows, doors, and joinery, as well as any extensions or alterations that may have been made to the property. For properties in Ottery St. Mary's conservation areas or listed buildings such as the historic Town Mill or Cadhay House, we provide specific advice on any listed building considerations that may affect your renovation plans or insurance requirements. The town has several heritage properties that require particular attention during any structural assessment.

Following the inspection, you receive a comprehensive written report typically within five working days. This report uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight defects, ranging from urgent issues requiring immediate attention to minor maintenance items. The report also includes our professional opinion on the property's market value, which can be invaluable when negotiating the purchase price if significant defects are found. Many of our clients in Ottery St. Mary have used these reports to negotiate substantial reductions in their purchase price, more than covering the cost of the survey itself.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Extensions and alterations
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

Ottery St. Mary is seeing continued development activity, with several new housing developments bringing modern properties to the market. The Kings Reach development by Bovis Homes offers two to five bedroom houses starting from around £225,995, situated opposite King's School. The small Otter View development on Mill Street features traditional three and four bedroom homes designed to blend with the surrounding area. For buyers considering these newer properties, a Level 2 survey can still add value by identifying any snagging issues or construction defects that may not be immediately apparent. Even new builds can have hidden problems that only an experienced eye will spot.

Planning applications continue to progress in the area, including the proposed development at Gerway Farm for up to 140 homes and the regeneration of the former Town Mill brownfield site, which will convert listed mill buildings into 30 new homes alongside additional newbuild properties. There is also a renewed bid for 63 homes on land east of Sidmouth Road, following a previous application that was refused in November 2023 and had an appeal dismissed in December 2024. For buyers looking at properties on or near these developments, understanding the local infrastructure and any potential environmental factors is an important part of the purchase process. Our surveyors can provide insight into how new developments may affect the surrounding area and property values.

The town's proximity to Exeter, approximately 10 miles away, makes Ottery St. Mary attractive to commuters, which influences the local property market and the types of homes in demand. Properties with good transport links or home office potential often command premium prices, and our surveys reflect the current market context alongside the physical condition of the property. The King's School, a comprehensive school and Sports College with 1,100 students, is also a significant local institution that affects housing demand in the area.

The Ottery St. Mary property market presents unique challenges that make a professional survey essential for any buyer. With properties ranging from historic period homes in the town centre to new builds on the outskirts, each property type comes with its own set of potential issues. The town's location on the River Otter means flood risk is a genuine consideration for many properties, particularly those in low-lying areas. Our surveyors are familiar with the specific flood history of different parts of the town and can advise accordingly on any property you are considering.

Many properties in Ottery St. Mary were built in the Georgian and Victorian eras, meaning they often feature traditional construction methods that can present specific challenges. These older properties may have issues with damp, outdated electrical systems, aging roofing, or historic alterations that were not carried out to current building regulations. A Level 2 survey will identify these issues and provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision or negotiate appropriate remedies with the seller. The recent softening in property prices in the area, with prices falling by 3.3% over the last 12 months, means buyers are in a stronger position to negotiate on price if issues are found.

For properties in or near the conservation area, or those that are listed buildings such as the historic Town Mill or Cadhay House, there are additional considerations that our surveyors can help you understand. Listed building consent may be required for certain alterations, and insurance costs may be higher for heritage properties. Our reports flag these considerations so you are fully aware of any extra responsibilities before completing your purchase. This level of local knowledge is exactly what you get when you book a survey with our team.