RICS Level 2 Survey in Parkham

Our inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of your Parkham property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, and doors, identifying any visible defects that could affect the value or safety of the home. The survey includes a comprehensive assessment of damp penetration, which is particularly important in this area given the proximity to the River Yeo and the Atlantic coast. We check for timber defects, including rot and beetle infestation, and assess the condition of any external joinery. In older Parkham properties with solid walls rather than modern cavity construction, damp assessment requires specific expertise that our surveyors possess.

The Level 2 report provides a clear condition rating system for each element of the property, ranging from "no repair needed" to "requires urgent attention". We highlight any areas where immediate repairs are necessary and flag items that should be monitored over time. For properties in Parkham, this is particularly valuable given the age of many homes in the village, some dating back to the 16th century. Our report helps you budget for future repairs and negotiate with sellers if significant issues are identified. We have found that older properties in this area commonly require attention to roofing, damp proofing, and outdated electrical systems.

We also assess the condition of services such as plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems, though we do not test them or certify their compliance with current regulations. The survey includes an inspection of any outbuildings, garages, and the general condition of the boundaries. For properties on new developments like Pickards Pasture or Penhaven Court, we can identify any snagging issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Our inspectors are familiar with common defects in newer builds, including issues with windows, doors, and utility connections that may not be covered by the developers warranty.

Given Parkham's proximity to the coast, we pay particular attention to signs of coastal erosion and salt damage to external timbers and metalwork. Properties within the parish that are located near the cliff areas may have specific concerns related to coastal exposure. We note the condition of any retaining walls or structures that may be affected by land movement. Our local knowledge means we understand how the Atlantic weather impacts property conditions in this area, particularly on south-facing elevations that bear the brunt of prevailing winds and rain.

• Walls and structural elements
• Roof covering and condition
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Timber floors and joinery
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Outbuildings and boundaries
• Coastal exposure assessment

Parkham is a village with remarkable historical depth, appearing in the Domesday Book of 1086 and featuring the parish church of St James, which dates largely from the 15th century with Norman origins. This history means a significant proportion of the local housing stock consists of older properties built with traditional methods. Many homes will have solid walls rather than modern cavity construction, which can be more susceptible to damp and may require specific advice on ventilation and insulation. Our inspectors understand these construction methods and can identify issues common to older Devon properties including the characteristic Devon longhouse style with their central through-passage design.

The village has seen new development in recent years, with projects like Penhaven Court bringing modern homes to the area. These new-build properties, ranging from one-bedroom apartments at around £155,000 to four-bedroom detached houses at £495,000, often have different survey considerations than period properties. While newer homes typically have fewer visible defects, our Level 2 survey can still identify any construction issues, problems with fixtures and fittings, and ensure the property has been built to acceptable standards. Phase two of Penhaven Court is currently underway, featuring eco-friendly muse-style houses with air source heat pumps and solar PV panels that require specific technical assessments.

Parkham Parish extends from rolling inland hills down to the Atlantic coast, meaning some properties may be affected by coastal exposure or river flood risk from the River Yeo. Our inspectors note any signs of water damage, historical flooding, or drainage issues that may not be immediately apparent. We also check for any coastal erosion concerns if the property is located near the cliff areas. This local knowledge is invaluable when making one of the largest financial decisions you will make. We have surveyed properties throughout the parish, from the village centre near The Bell Inn out to the coastal reaches where the land meets the sea.

The village has approximately 930 residents across 420 dwellings, with a mix of owner-occupied, privately rented, and affordable housing provided by local housing associations. The average income means that entry-level homes can cost more than nine times average earnings, making an independent survey even more critical before committing to such a significant purchase. Our report gives you confidence in your investment and any negotiating power if issues are found. With Stanley Court providing affordable two-bedroom properties through Westward Housing Association, there is a range of housing options in the village to suit different budgets and circumstances.

The local economy centres substantially on agriculture, with many families involved in farming the surrounding rolling pastures and valleys. Tourism contributes during summer months when visitors discover the beauty of this North Devon village and its proximity to attractions like Clovelly and the Hartland Peninsula. Our surveyors understand that properties in the village may have been adapted over generations, with former farm buildings converted into residential use. These conversions often present specific survey considerations relating to original agricultural construction methods and any subsequent alterations.