RICS Level 2 Survey in Strete

Strete is a charming coastal village in the South Hams district of Devon, located near the mouth of the River Dart and the famous South West Coast Path. The village features a diverse range of properties, from historic pre-1919 stone cottages and farmhouses to mid-20th-century homes and some more recent constructions. With an average property price of £495,300 and detached properties averaging £591,000, investing in a RICS Level 2 Survey is a small price to pay for the it brings.

The local geology around Strete consists of Devonian rocks, including slates, shales, and limestones, which have been used in traditional building construction for centuries. While the area generally has a low to very low shrink-swell clay risk, properties on slopes or near the coastline can experience localized ground movement issues. The coastal location means homes are exposed to strong winds and driving rain, which can accelerate wear on external fabric, roofs, and pointing. Our surveyors understand how these local conditions affect property condition over time.

Many properties in Strete are constructed from local stone with slate or tiled roofs, using traditional solid wall construction methods. These older properties, while full of character, often present issues such as damp penetration, deteriorating roof coverings, timber defects, and outdated electrical and plumbing systems that do not meet current regulations. Our surveyors have extensive experience inspecting these traditional Devon properties and know exactly what to look for, from the thatched cottages along the village lanes to the stone farmhouses set back from the coast path.

The local economy in Strete is heavily influenced by tourism, agriculture, and fishing, given its coastal location and proximity to the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dartmouth, just a short drive away, provides additional employment opportunities, while the desirability of the area for second homes and holiday lets influences the housing market. Our surveyors are familiar with how these local market dynamics can affect property condition and maintenance standards.

• Historic stone cottages with traditional construction
• Period farmhouses with age-related wear
• Coastal properties exposed to weather
• Properties with outdated services
• Homes with listed building elements
• Modern houses requiring standard checks

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout the South Hams area, several recurring issues affect homes in Strete. Damp problems are among the most common, particularly rising damp in solid-walled properties or penetrating damp caused by exposure to driving rain from the coast. Older stone cottages are particularly susceptible, especially where original lime mortar pointing has deteriorated or been replaced with less breathable cement render. Our inspectors use moisture meters to assess damp levels and can identify the likely cause and appropriate remediation.

Roof conditions also require careful attention. Many Strete properties feature traditional slate or clay tile roofs that are now several decades or even centuries old. Common problems include slipped or broken tiles, deteriorated mortar pointing, corroded flashings around chimneys and valleys, and damaged ridge tiles. Given the coastal exposure, salt corrosion can accelerate deterioration of metal elements on roofs. We inspect roofs from both inside accessible loft spaces and externally where safe access is possible.

Timber defects are another significant concern in older Strete properties. Woodworm infestations are relatively common in historic timber-framed buildings and roof structures, while wet rot and dry rot can affect timber that has been exposed to damp conditions. Our surveyors pay particular attention to roof timbers, floor joists, and window frames where these issues are most likely to occur. Any signs of active infestation or damage are clearly documented in our reports.

Many properties in Strete still have original electrical wiring and plumbing systems that date from the mid-20th century or earlier. These outdated systems often fail to meet current regulations and can pose safety risks. Our survey includes a visual assessment of the condition of services, with recommendations for further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers where necessary. We note the age and condition of consumer units, wiring visible in accessible areas, and plumbing materials.

Strete's coastal location brings specific environmental considerations for property buyers. The village sits near Strete Gate beach, and properties closer to the coastline may be susceptible to coastal erosion and surface water flooding. While Strete village itself is not in a designated flood zone, the Environment Agency advises checking specific locations, particularly those near the coast path or low-lying areas. Our surveyors can advise on flood risk during the inspection and note any visible signs of past flooding or water damage.

Devon, including the Strete area, is recognized as a radon-affected region. Some properties may have elevated radon levels, particularly those with basements or ground-floor rooms. Our surveyors will note if the property is in a radon-affected area and recommend appropriate testing if necessary. Radon mitigation systems can be installed if elevated levels are detected, so knowing about this issue before you buy is important for budgeting purposes.

The exposure to coastal weather means that external joinery, renders, and roof coverings in Strete tend to weather more rapidly than in inland areas. Salt-laden wind accelerates corrosion of metalwork and can cause deterioration of cement-based renders and pointings. When surveying properties in Strete, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of external walls, windows, doors, and roof coverings to assess the impact of coastal exposure. We document any areas where weather damage is accelerating and may require ongoing maintenance.