RICS Level 2 Survey in Stockland

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the main accessible areas of your Stockland property. Our experienced surveyors examine the roof structure, walls, floors, doors, windows, and the condition of key fixtures and fittings throughout the property. The survey includes an assessment of the property's overall condition and specifically identifies any defects that are serious or significant enough to affect the value of the property. We use the RICS traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element, making it easy for you to understand which issues require urgent attention.

Given the prevalence of traditional cob construction in Stockland properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of external walls, looking for signs of damp penetration, cracking, or deterioration that can affect these historic building materials. Cob walls, while inherently durable, require specialist knowledge to assess properly, and our team understands how to identify issues specific to this traditional Devon building method. We also inspect roofs thoroughly, checking for missing or damaged tiles, signs of leakage, and the condition of flashings and chimneys that are particularly vulnerable in older properties.

The Level 2 survey includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost estimate, giving you a clear picture of the property's worth in the current Stockland market. With recent data showing prices in the area down 18% from the previous year and 22% below the 2023 peak of £607,500, having an independent assessment helps ensure you are paying a fair price for the property. Our surveyors use their local knowledge of the Stockland property market to provide accurate valuations that reflect current conditions in this specific corner of East Devon.

Many properties in Stockland fall within or near the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which means some homes may have specific planning restrictions or conservation considerations. While our survey focuses on the physical condition of the property, we can flag any obvious issues that might relate to listed building status or conservation area requirements that could affect your plans for the property. This is particularly relevant given the number of historic properties in the area, including the Grade II* Listed 13th-century farmhouses that can be found within the parish.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Garage and outbuildings
• Market valuation
• Insurance rebuild cost

Stockland is a small rural village with a population of approximately 650 residents across around 286 households. The village is situated in a valley above the River Yarty, which flows just below the settlement to the east. This riverside location means some properties in the area may be subject to flood risk assessments, and our surveyors will note any visible signs of dampness or water damage that could relate to the property's proximity to watercourses. The River Yarty valley creates a beautiful setting but also means that flood risk should be considered when purchasing property in certain parts of the village.

The majority of properties in Stockland are detached homes, reflecting the rural nature of the area and the preference for period properties with generous gardens. The local housing stock includes traditional Devon farmhouses, historic cob cottages, and more modern developments that have been added to the village over the years. This mix of property ages and construction types means every survey we conduct in Stockland requires a tailored approach, with our surveyors adapting their inspection methodology based on the specific property type and its construction era.

Properties in Stockland fall within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which means many homes may have specific planning restrictions or conservation considerations. While our survey focuses on the physical condition of the property, we can flag any obvious issues that might relate to listed building status or conservation area requirements that could affect your plans for the property. The Blackdown Hills AONB designation also means that properties may be subject to specific planning constraints that any renovation or extension plans would need to consider.

The geology of the Blackdown Hills creates specific challenges for property owners in the Stockland area. The underlying clay soils can be prone to shrink-swell movement, which may affect foundations and cause structural movement in properties over time. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of subsidence or movement that could be related to ground conditions, and we will recommend further investigation if necessary to establish the cause and extent of any issues observed.