RICS Level 2 Survey in Poltimore

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's accessible areas, examining the overall condition of the walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows. Our surveyors assess the condition of the roof, including the chimneys, gutters, and flashings, as well as the condition of the foundation and any visible structural elements. The survey includes evaluation of the property's damp proof course, insulation, and ventilation, all of which are particularly important in older properties in the Poltimore area where properties from the 1920s and 1930s are common. We check every accessible area systematically, ensuring no potential issue goes unnoticed during our visit to your property.

The Level 2 survey uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight any areas of concern, ranging from green (no urgent issues) to red (urgent repairs needed). This system makes it easy for you to prioritise any work that may be required after your purchase. For Poltimore properties, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of older timber frame construction elements and traditional building materials that may be present in period cottages and farm buildings that have been converted into residential properties. Properties on the Poltimore Estate, such as those at Pynes Farm, often feature timber frame construction that requires careful assessment by an experienced surveyor.

Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, the RICS Level 2 Survey gives you detailed information about the property's actual condition. This is especially valuable in Poltimore where the housing mix includes converted agricultural buildings and period properties that may have hidden issues not apparent during a casual viewing. The survey report typically runs to 20-30 pages and includes clear recommendations for any necessary repairs or further investigations. We provide detailed photographs of all defects found, along with clear explanations of what each issue means for your potential purchase and ongoing maintenance costs.

The survey also includes assessment of the property's services, including electrical and plumbing installations, which is particularly important in older properties where wiring and pipework may date from the original construction. Our surveyors will flag any outdated electrical systems, particularly those that do not meet current regulations, and recommend that you consult with qualified electricians and plumbers for more detailed investigations where necessary. This level of detail helps you budget for any upgrades that may be needed after you move in.

• Structural assessment
• Roof and rainwater goods
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows and doors
• Services and utilities
• Boundary and grounds

The Poltimore area features a diverse mix of property types that are well-suited to RICS Level 2 surveys. The village includes period properties from the 1920s and 1930s, including fully remodelled detached homes and semi-detached family houses. These older properties often require detailed assessment to identify any deterioration in roofing, damp issues, or outdated electrical systems that may have developed over decades of occupancy. Our surveyors have extensive experience inspecting these inter-war properties and know exactly what to look for when assessing their condition.

The local housing stock also includes converted agricultural buildings and traditional farm cottages, such as those found on the Poltimore Estate. These properties may have unique construction characteristics, including timber frame elements and traditional building materials, that require an experienced eye to assess properly. A Level 2 survey is particularly valuable for such properties, as it can identify any alterations or modifications that may have been made to the original agricultural structures. Properties at Pynes Farm, for example, feature a mix of traditional and modern construction that benefits from our detailed inspection approach.

Recent sales in the area, such as the terraced property at Winterwood on Hatchland Road selling for £345,000 and the semi-detached at 1 Poltimore Court on Moor Lane achieving £455,000, demonstrate the range of property types available in Poltimore. Whether you are purchasing a modernised period cottage or a converted barn, our RICS Level 2 survey provides the detailed information you need to make an informed purchasing decision. We have surveyed properties throughout the village and understand the specific challenges that come with each property type.

The proximity of Poltimore to Exeter makes it a popular choice for commuters and families looking for a quieter village setting while remaining close to city amenities. This demand means properties in the area command premium prices, making it even more important to understand the true condition of any property before committing to purchase. Our surveyors know the local area well and can identify issues that may be specific to properties in this part of East Devon, from drainage concerns to the typical defects found in properties of various ages and construction types.

When surveying properties in Poltimore, our team frequently identifies several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp penetration is a common finding in older properties, particularly those with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction. The rural setting of Poltimore means properties can be more susceptible to damp issues, especially if the property has been empty for any period or if the existing damp proof course has failed. Our surveyors use their experience to identify both obvious signs of damp and more subtle indicators that might be missed by an untrained eye.

Roof condition is another area where we often find issues, particularly on period properties with original roofing materials. Tiles and slates can become brittle or displaced over time, and the flashings around chimneys and roof windows are common failure points. In properties of any age, we check the condition of gutters and downpipes, as blocked or damaged rainwater goods can lead to water penetration and subsequent damage to the property structure. These issues are particularly relevant in Poltimore where many properties have traditional roof constructions that require careful assessment.

Electrical safety is a key concern in older properties, and we often find that electrical installations in properties built before the 1990s do not meet current regulations. We recommend that buyers obtain a qualified electrical engineer to inspect the electrical installation and issue an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). While this is not included in a Level 2 survey, our report will flag any visible concerns with the electrical installation and recommend further investigation where appropriate. This is particularly important for properties that may have had DIY electrical work carried out over the years.

Timber frame elements, particularly in converted agricultural buildings on the Poltimore Estate, require careful assessment for signs of rot or insect damage. Our surveyors inspect all accessible timber elements, including floor joists, roof timbers, and window frames, looking for both active decay and historical damage that may have been repaired. We also check for signs of woodworm activity, which can compromise the structural integrity of timber elements if left untreated. Any findings are clearly reported with recommendations for appropriate specialist investigation.