RICS Level 2 Survey in St. Winnow

St. Winnow is a picturesque parish with a rich architectural heritage that includes the Grade I listed Church of St Winnow and numerous other listed buildings. Many properties in this area are centuries old, built using traditional Cornish materials like granite, slate, and cob. While these buildings have tremendous character, they also present specific challenges that only an experienced local surveyor can properly assess. The area's proximity to the River Fowey means flood risk is a genuine consideration for some properties, particularly those near the riverbank or in low-lying positions near the quay at the limit of navigation.

Cornwall's older housing stock frequently suffers from damp and mould issues, especially in properties with solid walls rather than cavity insulation. The county's high humidity and frequent rainfall can exacerbate these problems, particularly if the original breathable construction has been inappropriately modernised with non-breathable materials. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for in a Cornish property, from the condition of slate roofs to the state of older plumbing systems that may date back decades. We use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to identify hidden damp issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Another critical issue specific to this region is the potential for mundic block, a form of concrete block used in properties built between roughly 1900 and 1965 that can deteriorate over time. Properties affected by mundic block may be difficult to mortgage, making early identification essential. Our Level 2 survey will flag any concerns and recommend further investigation where necessary, potentially saving you from significant problems down the line. If we identify potential mundic block issues, we can arrange a specialist mundic test through our network of qualified assessors.

The local geology around St. Winnow and the wider Cornwall area also presents specific considerations for property buyers. Historic mining activity across the county means some properties may be built on ground with past mining activity, potentially leading to subsidence or ground movement. We inspect for tell-tale signs such as diagonal cracks in walls, doors that stick or fail to close properly, and floors that slope or feel uneven. Our surveyors are trained to identify these issues and will recommend further investigation by a structural engineer if we find any concerns.

• Damp and mould assessment
• Roof and slate condition check
• Structural movement identification
• Mundic block screening
• Flood risk evaluation
• Electrical safety review

Properties in St. Winnow face several area-specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. The historic mining activity across Cornwall means that some properties may be built on ground with past mining activity, potentially leading to subsidence or ground movement. Our surveyors look for tell-tale signs such as diagonal cracks in walls, doors that stick or fail to close properly, and floors that slope or feel uneven. If we identify any concerns, we recommend further investigation by a structural engineer.

The coastal climate of Cornwall, even in inland areas like St. Winnow, means that salty air and high humidity can accelerate the deterioration of external materials and electrical systems. Properties near the River Fowey may also face specific drainage challenges, and our survey includes an assessment of the property's vulnerability to flooding and water damage. We check the condition of drainage systems, the gradient of the surrounding land, and any existing flood mitigation measures.

Electrical safety is another key concern in older Cornish properties. Many historic homes in the St. Winnow area still have original wiring systems that may not meet current regulations and could pose a fire risk. Our survey includes a visual inspection of the electrical consumer unit, wiring condition where visible, and switches and sockets. We will flag any obvious safety concerns and recommend a full electrical inspection by a qualified electrician before you complete your purchase.

Inadequate ventilation is a common issue we find in properties where modern repair techniques have reduced natural airflow in older buildings. This can lead to damp, condensation, and timber decay, particularly in properties with solid walls that were originally designed to breathe. Our surveyors assess ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and roof spaces, and advise on any improvements needed to prevent moisture-related problems.

• Subsidence and structural movement
• Flood risk from River Fowey
• Damp and condensation problems
• Roof deterioration and slate damage
• Outdated electrical systems
• Drainage and plumbing issues