RICS Level 2 Survey in Sharpham, Somerset

The Somerset Levels create unique challenges for property owners in the Sharpham area. The underlying geology, featuring alluvial deposits, clay, and peat, can lead to ground movement that affects building foundations over time. Our chartered surveyors inspect each property with these local conditions in mind, checking for signs of subsidence, cracking, or movement that may relate to the shrink-swell potential of the clay soils common in this region. We've seen numerous properties in the BA16 area showing evidence of foundation movement, particularly during periods of drought followed by heavy rainfall when clay soils expand and contract significantly.

Properties in and around Sharpham span several decades of construction, from traditional period cottages with original features to modern homes built within the last few years. The village has seen various sales along Sharpham Drove and surrounding roads, with detached properties frequently changing hands at prices ranging from £242,500 to £375,000 depending on size and condition. This diversity in housing stock means every survey we undertake requires a thorough, individual assessment. We adapt our inspection approach based on the property type, age, and construction method, ensuring we identify all relevant defects regardless of whether it's a Victorian cottage or a 2020s new build.

Flood risk is a genuine consideration for properties in the Sharpham area due to the low-lying nature of the Somerset Levels and the proximity to watercourses such as the River Brue and River Parrett. Our Level 2 surveys include assessment of flood resilience measures, existing flood damage, and the adequacy of drainage systems around the property. We note any evidence of previous flooding, including watermarks on walls, damaged plasterwork, or replaced floor coverings, and provide practical recommendations for protecting your investment. Our surveyors are familiar with the flood history of the area and can advise on specific measures appropriate for properties in this flood zone.

Many properties in the Sharpham BA16 area feature traditional construction methods using local stone, brick, and render, with roofing materials ranging from slate to clay tiles. These older properties often require careful inspection of roof conditions, chimney stacks, and flashings, as well as assessment of timber-framed elements that may be susceptible to rot or woodworm infestation. Our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of roof coverings, checking for slipped tiles, damaged verges, and deteriorating lead flashings around chimneys that are common issues in period properties throughout the Somerset Levels.

When our chartered surveyors inspect a property in Sharpham, we follow a systematic approach that covers all accessible areas of the building. We begin with a thorough external inspection, examining the walls, roof, chimneys, gutters, and damp proof course. We look for signs of structural movement, including cracking patterns in brickwork, bulging walls, or uneven rooflines that might indicate underlying problems. Our inspectors are trained to identify the difference between minor settlement cracks and more serious structural defects that require further investigation.

Internally, we inspect the condition of floors, walls, and ceilings, paying particular attention to signs of damp or timber decay. In properties throughout the BA16 area, we frequently encounter issues with rising damp, particularly in older buildings where the original damp proof course may have failed or been bridged by external ground levels. We use moisture meters to assess wall moisture content and thermal imaging cameras to identify areas of potential damp or cold bridging that might not be visible to the naked eye. Our surveyors also inspect the condition of windows, doors, and their fittings, noting any defects in operation or security.

The services within a property, including electrical wiring, plumbing, and heating systems, form an important part of our Level 2 survey. We visually inspect the condition of these installations and note any obvious defects or areas of concern. While we don't perform detailed testing of electrical or gas installations, we can identify obvious safety hazards, outdated consumer units, or pipework in poor condition that should be inspected further by qualified specialists. For properties in Sharpham with older heating systems, we often recommend servicing before completion to ensure safe and efficient operation.

The RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Report is specifically designed for properties in conventional construction, which makes up the majority of homes in the Sharpham area. Our survey provides a comprehensive condition assessment that covers the main structural elements and key systems, including walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and the integrity of the building envelope. The report follows the RICS format, ensuring consistency and quality that you can rely on when making your property purchase decision.

Each section of the report receives a condition rating from one to three, indicating whether no repair is currently needed, repairs are required but not urgently, or urgent repairs are necessary. This clear rating system helps you prioritises any work needed and understand the potential costs involved in maintaining the property after purchase. We provide estimates of repair costs where appropriate, though we always recommend obtaining detailed quotes from qualified contractors before committing to any work.

Our reports also include an Energy Efficiency assessment highlighting the current EPC rating and recommendations for improving the property's thermal performance. With many older properties in the Sharpham area having solid walls or limited insulation, this section provides valuable guidance on potential upgrade works that could reduce your energy bills. We note the type of wall construction, loft insulation depth, and window type, providing practical suggestions for improvement that can make a significant difference to your running costs.

For properties in the BA16 area that have been recently constructed or converted, we provide defect analysis specific to modern building methods. While new builds in the area may appear to be in excellent condition, our experienced eyes can identify snagging issues, inadequate detailing, or construction shortcuts that might not be apparent to the untrained buyer. We inspect all the same elements as we would in an older property, but with particular attention to the quality of workmanship and compliance with current building regulations.