RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey in Truro (TR1 3)

The RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is specifically designed for properties in conventional condition, providing a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the home. Our surveyors examine the main elements of the property including the roof structure, walls, floors, windows and doors, plumbing and electrical systems, and the condition of damp-proof courses and insulation. In TR1 3, where many properties feature traditional Cornish stone construction and slate roofing, our inspectors pay particular attention to the specific defects common to these age-old building methods.

We assess the overall condition of the property and rate each element as either satisfactory, requiring attention, or requiring urgent repair. The report includes clear colour-coded ratings that make it easy to identify which issues need immediate attention and which can be addressed over time. For properties in Truro's city centre, where Victorian and Georgian architecture dominates, we pay special attention to the condition of original features, the effectiveness of historical damp-proofing measures, and the state of aging roof coverings and rainwater goods.

Our surveyors also provide a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost estimate, which proves invaluable when arranging buildings insurance or negotiating the purchase price. If we identify any areas of concern that require specialist investigation, we recommend this in the report along with the appropriate type of specialist needed. For TR1 3 properties located near the River Truro, we note any flood risk indicators and advise on the need for flood risk assessments.

The local geology in Truro and surrounding TR1 3 area is characterized by Devonian slates and grits, often referred to as killas, with areas of granite particularly to the north and west of the city. Our surveyors understand how these geological conditions can affect foundations and cause ground movement. The superficial deposits can include river alluvium in valley bottoms near the Rivers Kenwyn and Allen, which may indicate potential shrink-swell behaviour in clay-rich soils. This local knowledge helps us identify areas where structural movement or subsidence might be a concern.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Foundations and underlying ground conditions

Properties in TR1 3 present several common issues that our surveyors regularly identify during inspections. The high proportion of older buildings constructed from traditional Cornish materials means that damp is frequently encountered, particularly penetrating damp resulting from weathering of stone walls, defective render, or failed rainwater goods. Many Victorian and Georgian properties in the city centre were built without modern damp-proof courses, making rising damp a common finding that often requires professional treatment. Properties on streets like St Mary's Street and Ferris Town are particularly susceptible due to their age and the exposure of traditional stonework to Cornwall's wet weather.

Slate roofs, while durable, require regular maintenance, and our inspectors frequently note slipped, broken, or missing slates along with deteriorated leadwork around chimneys and valleys. The local geology, characterised by Devonian slates and grits, can indicate clay content in superficial deposits, leading to potential shrink-swell movement that may cause structural cracking in some properties. Timber defects including woodworm and rot are also prevalent, particularly in roof spaces and ground floor joists where damp conditions have developed over time.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Truro properties often fall well below current standards, with many Victorian terraced houses still operating on original wiring and galvanised pipework. These systems pose safety risks and will likely require complete rewiring or replumbing as part of any renovation programme. Our survey reports clearly identify these issues and provide cost guidance to help you plan for necessary upgrades.

Properties near the Rivers Kenwyn and Allen face potential flood risk, and our surveyors note any signs of previous flooding, water staining, or damp related to the tidal influence of the Truro River. While not all properties in TR1 3 are at risk, those in lower-lying areas near the river should consider a specialist flood risk assessment in addition to our standard survey. We also check for evidence of past mining activity in the broader Cornwall region, though Truro itself is not a primary mining area.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Slate roof damage and deterioration
• Structural movement and cracking
• Outdated electrical systems
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Defective windows and joinery