RICS Level 2 Survey in Selwood

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a detailed inspection of the property's condition, identifying any significant issues that might affect its value or require costly repairs. The survey follows RICS guidelines and gives you a clear red, amber, or green rating system that highlights defects from major issues requiring urgent attention to minor cosmetic matters. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and integral fixtures.

In the Selwood area, where we frequently encounter properties built in the 18th and 19th centuries alongside mid-century housing, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in older properties. This includes checking for damp penetration in solid wall constructions, assessing the condition of traditional roofing materials, evaluating outdated electrical and plumbing systems, and identifying any signs of structural movement or timber decay. The survey also includes an assessment of the property's energy efficiency, which is particularly relevant for older properties that may lack modern insulation.

Properties in Selwood often feature local limestone construction, particularly in the historic buildings around Selwood Road and the conservation areas. Our surveyors understand how this traditional building material performs over time and can identify issues specific to Somerset's geology, including potential shrink-swell movement in clay soils that can affect foundations. We also assess any flood risk considerations for properties near the River Frome or in areas with surface water runoff concerns.

• Structural integrity and building fabric
• Roof condition and insulation
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• External finishes and boundaries
• Energy efficiency assessment
• Legal considerations and rights of way

The Selwood area presents a distinctive mix of property types, each with their own potential issues. Period properties built before 1919, such as the charming cottages found on Selwood Road, commonly exhibit damp problems due to their solid wall construction lacking modern damp-proof courses. These older buildings may also have aging roof coverings with deteriorated tiles or slate, failing leadwork around chimneys, and timber structures affected by woodworm or rot. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying these issues and assessing their severity, looking at a cottage with an original inglenook fireplace or a grander period property.

Mid-century properties constructed between 1936 and 1979, which dominate Selwood Crescent and surrounding streets, bring different considerations. These homes may have original electrical wiring and plumbing that fails to meet current regulations, potentially requiring complete rewiring or plumbing upgrades. Single-glazed windows, limited insulation in walls and roofs, and potential issues with concrete foundations or garage structures are also common in this era of construction. Our detailed report helps you understand exactly what maintenance and upgrades may be needed to bring these properties up to modern standards.

Properties in conservation areas, which include parts of Selwood Road, face additional considerations. While the historic character is protected, this can mean older building materials and methods require specialist repair work that costs more than standard solutions. Our survey reports highlight any conservation area implications and provide guidance on the likely costs of bringing the property up to a good standard. We also note any potential issues with clay soils in the area that may cause foundation movement, which is particularly relevant for both older and newer properties in certain locations.

Looking ahead, the proposed Selwood Garden Community would bring approximately 1,700 new homes to fields south of Frome between the A361 and the southern edge of town. While this development has faced planning challenges, with Somerset Council's planning committee voting to refuse permission in December 2024, it reflects ongoing growth in the area. If you're considering a newer property or one affected by this development context, our survey can help you understand any specific issues related to modern construction methods or potential environmental factors.