RICS Level 2 Survey in TA18 (Crewkerne)

A RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects that may affect the value or safety of the property. Our surveyors examine the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the roof, chimneys, gutters, and external joinery. The inspection covers both the interior and exterior of the property, providing you with a complete picture of its current condition. Each survey includes clear ratings for the condition of different elements, from "good" to "urgent repairs required," helping you understand exactly what work may be needed. We use the RICS traffic light system - green for no issues, amber for minor defects requiring attention, and red for urgent repairs that need immediate action.

The report goes beyond a simple visual inspection to include expert advice on matters such as timber defects, dampness, and structural concerns. If our surveyor identifies any areas of concern, the report will provide recommendations for further investigation by specialists, ensuring that you are fully aware of any potential issues before completing your purchase. In the TA18 area, where many properties are of traditional construction with solid walls, this detailed assessment is particularly valuable for identifying issues that may not be apparent during a viewing. Properties with solid wall construction are more susceptible to penetrating damp, particularly given Somerset's wet climate, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing these traditional buildings.

For properties in the TA18 area, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in Somerset properties, including the condition of older roof structures, the presence of any settlement or movement in walls, and the state of any exposed timber frames. The Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost estimate, giving you additional financial information to support your purchase decision. This valuation is based on current market conditions in the Crewkerne area, reflecting the local property trends and recent sales data. For example, with the average sold price in TA18 currently at £278,014 according to Zoopla, having an accurate valuation helps you understand whether the asking price reflects true market value.

One of the key benefits of the RICS Level 2 survey is the clear, comparable condition ratings that allow you to assess the property against others you may be considering. Whether you are looking at a terraced property in the town centre around £201,000 or a detached family home closer to £389,000, the report gives you the information needed to make a confident decision. The market valuation aspect is particularly useful in the current market conditions, where TA18 8AD sector saw prices jump 36% in the last year to an average of £307,500, making it essential to understand whether similar properties are realistically priced.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Condition ratings for each element
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Advice on urgent repairs
• Recommendations for specialist investigations
• Energy efficiency considerations

The TA18 postcode area, centred on the market town of Crewkerne in South Somerset, encompasses a mix of property types that reflects its position as a thriving rural hub. The town and surrounding villages feature a significant proportion of older properties, with many dating from the Victorian and Edwardian periods. These period properties, while full of character, often require careful assessment due to their traditional construction methods and the potential for hidden defects that have developed over decades of use. Terraced properties are particularly prevalent in the area, accounting for a substantial portion of sales, and these come with their own specific considerations such as shared walls and foundations that can affect neighbouring properties.

Properties in the TA18 area commonly feature local stone and brick construction, reflecting the geological character of Somerset. Roofs are often of slate or clay tile construction, and many properties have solid walls rather than the cavity wall construction found in newer buildings. These construction features can affect thermal efficiency and may require specific approaches to insulation and damp proofing. Our surveyors are familiar with these local construction characteristics and will assess them accordingly, providing you with advice that is relevant to the specific property type and its location within the TA18 area. We understand that solid wall properties may require specialist damp surveys if evidence of moisture ingress is found.

The local property market in TA18 has shown relative stability, with prices in the TA18 7 sector growing by 3.6% in the last year and the TA18 8 sector seeing 1.5% growth. However, overall prices in the wider area have seen a slight correction from the 2022 peak, sitting around 6% lower than that high point. This context makes it even more important to ensure that any property you are considering is in the condition it appears to be at the asking price. A RICS Level 2 survey provides the objective assessment you need to make an informed decision and negotiate appropriately if issues are found. Given the significant variation in property prices - from around £201,000 for terraced properties to £389,000 for detached homes - understanding exactly what you are getting for your money is essential.

One often overlooked consideration in the TA18 area is the potential for properties to have outdated electrical and plumbing systems. Many older properties will have been updated over the years, but some may still have original wiring or lead pipes that require attention. Our surveyors check the condition of consumer units, visible wiring, plumbing materials, and water pressure as part of the standard inspection. Any concerns in these areas are clearly flagged in the report, allowing you to factor in potential upgrade costs when making your purchase decision. This is particularly relevant for period properties that may not have been modernised to current standards.

• Terraced properties prevalent in town centre
• Many Victorian and Edwardian period homes
• Traditional solid wall construction
• Slate and clay tile roofing common
• Potential for historic damp issues
• Older electrical and plumbing systems