RICS Level 2 Survey in Par PL24 2

Our Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, examining all accessible areas from roof space to foundations. In Par properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to the unique challenges posed by the local environment. The coastal location means we carefully assess for salt damage to external renders, corrosion of fixings, and the condition of flat-roof coverings that can deteriorate faster in marine environments. We examine the interaction between different building elements, understanding how the coastal exposure affects various materials used in the property's construction.

The survey includes a comprehensive evaluation of the building's structure, highlighting any defects that could affect value or require immediate attention. We examine walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, providing clear condition ratings for each element. Our report explains any issues in plain English, helping you understand exactly what work might be needed after completion and providing estimates for remedial costs where appropriate. We focus on delivering practical advice that helps you plan for future maintenance and budget accordingly, rather than simply listing problems.

For properties in PL24 2, our inspectors specifically look for signs of damp, which is particularly common in older coastal properties where exposure to driving rain and rising damp can compromise walls without adequate damp-proof courses. Cornwall receives some of the highest rainfall in England, and properties in Par are particularly exposed to westerly winds bringing moisture directly from the Atlantic. Our surveyors use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to identify damp issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye, including hidden condensation problems in poorly ventilated bathrooms and kitchens.

We also assess timber elements for woodworm and rot, issues frequently found in Cornwall's older housing stock where moisture penetration has occurred over years of occupation. The humid Cornish climate creates ideal conditions for wet rot and dry rot to develop, particularly in roof spaces, under sinks, and around windows where condensation collects. Our survey includes checking for signs of past or present timber treatment, and we note any areas where timber appears to have been affected by fungal decay or insect infestation. When we find significant timber defects, we recommend appropriate specialist inspections to assess the full extent of any damage.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

The geological conditions around Par create specific challenges for property owners. The underlying clay soils, combined with the area's Devonian slate and grit geology, can lead to shrink-swell movement that affects foundations. Our surveyors are trained to identify the signs of this movement, including crack patterns in walls and doors that stick or don't close properly. Where we suspect ground instability, we recommend further investigation by a structural engineer. The china clay deposits in the wider St Austell area have left a legacy of disturbed ground in some locations, and while Par itself is not in the heart of the historic mining district, properties within a few miles may be affected by old mine workings or ground compression from industrial activity.

Many properties in Par feature traditional slate roofs, particularly the older cottages and terraced houses in the village centre. Our inspection includes accessing the roof space where safe to do so, checking for slipped slates, perished lead flashings, and timber decay in rafters and purlins. These issues are particularly common in properties over 50 years old, and our report provides practical guidance on necessary repairs. We also check the condition of flat roof sections, which are popular for extensions and garage conversions but can be problematic in the Cornish climate where they are exposed to wind-driven rain and salt air that accelerates deterioration of felt and membrane coverings.

The historic mining activity in Cornwall, including the china clay operations around St Blazey, means some properties in the PL24 2 area may have foundations affected by old mine workings or ground compression from industrial activity. While not all properties are affected, our surveyors know the warning signs and will recommend appropriate investigations if we suspect ground instability issues that could compromise the structural integrity of the building. We look for signs such as uneven floor levels, cracking that follows specific patterns, and doors or windows that have stuck or required adjustment over time. Our knowledge of local ground conditions means we can advise on whether any concerns are likely to be historic movement or indicate ongoing issues that need addressing.

For properties near the River Par or the coastline at Par Sands, we assess flood risk based on our visual inspection and our knowledge of local flood history. We note the property's proximity to watercourses and look for signs of previous flooding such as tide marks, water staining at low levels, or damp patches that might indicate persistent moisture problems. While our survey cannot replace a specialist flood risk assessment, we provide initial guidance that helps you decide whether more detailed investigation is needed. We also check drainage systems, noting any signs of poor installation or blockages that could contribute to surface water flooding during heavy rainfall, which Cornwall experiences regularly throughout the year.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Roof slates and tile deterioration
• Subsidence and foundation movement
• Timber rot and woodworm infestation
• Outdated electrical installations
• Drainage and guttering defects