RICS Level 2 Survey in SN10 Devizes

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a detailed assessment of the property's overall condition, focusing on any urgent defects or issues that might affect the property's value. The surveyor will inspect the roof structure, walls, floors, doors, windows, and key fixtures, providing a clear red, amber, or green rating for each major element. For properties in SN10, this includes checking for common local issues such as damp in older stone buildings, roof condition on properties with slate or clay tiles, and any signs of subsidence related to the clay soils found in certain areas.

The survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, which proves useful for mortgage requirements and ensuring you have adequate building insurance coverage. Our surveyors will check for any illegal alterations or extensions that might require planning permission or building regulation approval, which is particularly relevant in Devizes Conservation Area where stricter controls apply to preserve the town's historic character. Many properties in the centre are Listed Buildings, and alterations to these require listed building consent in addition to standard planning permissions.

We examine the property's drainage, highlighting any visible issues with waste pipes, gutters, and soakaways. In SN10, where some properties rely on septic tanks or private drainage rather than mains sewerage, our surveyors pay particular attention to these systems. The report also includes a thorough assessment of the electrical and heating systems where visible, flagging any obvious safety concerns or outdated installations that require further investigation by qualified specialists. Properties built before 1980 often have electrical installations that do not meet current regulations, and our surveyors will note any visible concerns.

The local geology plays a significant role in property condition. SN10 is predominantly underlain by Cretaceous Chalk, which generally provides stable foundations. However, superficial deposits including Head deposits (containing clay, silt, sand, and gravel) and alluvium along river valleys can present challenges. Areas with significant clay content may have a moderate to high shrink-swell risk, particularly during periods of extreme weather. Our surveyors check for signs of movement or cracking that might indicate issues with the underlying ground conditions, especially near mature trees or in lower-lying areas.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical and heating visible elements
• Drainage and gutters
• Market valuation
• Building reinstatement value

The Devizes area presents specific challenges that our surveyors regularly encounter. Damp is one of the most common issues, particularly in older properties built with solid walls or lacking modern damp-proof courses. Properties in SN10 often show signs of rising damp or penetrating damp, especially in stone-built homes where lime mortar has deteriorated over time. Our surveyors use their expertise to assess the severity of any damp issues and recommend appropriate remedial action. Properties in areas like the historic town centre, with its mixture of Georgian and Victorian buildings, are particularly susceptible to damp due to the age of the construction and traditional building methods.

Roof conditions also require careful attention in SN10. Many properties feature traditional slate or clay tile roofs that, while durable, can suffer from slipped tiles, perished underfelt, or decaying rafters over time. The surveyor will thoroughly examine the roof space where accessible, checking for signs of water staining, timber rot, or pest infestation. Given the age of much of the local housing stock, roof issues are frequently identified in our surveys. Properties in the town centre often have complex roof structures with multiple valleys and chimneys that require detailed inspection.

Subsidence and heave present a moderate risk in certain parts of SN10 due to the underlying geology. Properties built on superficial clay deposits may be susceptible to ground movement during periods of extreme weather. Our surveyors check for signs of cracking or movement that might indicate structural issues, particularly in properties with mature trees nearby or those built on less stable ground. While chalk bedrock generally provides stable foundations, clay-rich areas require careful assessment. The River Kennet & Avon Canal and its tributaries run through the area, and properties in lower-lying positions near watercourses may also face surface water flooding risks during heavy rainfall.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older properties frequently require attention. Many homes built before 1980 still have original wiring that does not meet current electrical safety standards, and lead or galvanised steel pipes may still be present in plumbing systems. Our surveyors will note any visible electrical deficiencies or outdated plumbing that will need updating by qualified electricians and plumbers. Windows and doors in period properties often show deterioration, with rotten frames, failed seals in double-glazed units, and sticking due to settlement or wood movement being common findings in our SN10 surveys.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof defects and leaks
• Subsidence or structural movement
• Outdated electrical systems
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Windows and door deterioration