RICS Level 2 Survey in Trusham

The village of Trusham boasts an exceptional architectural heritage, with over twenty Listed Buildings including the Grade II* Church of St Michael, The Old Rectory, and Chicks. Many properties here date back centuries, constructed using traditional methods with local stone, cob, and render. While these buildings possess tremendous character, their age brings specific challenges that our inspectors address in every survey we undertake. The historical significance of these buildings means that alterations and repairs often require Listed Building Consent, and our surveyors understand the implications this has for future maintenance and renovation work.

Our RICS Level 2 surveys are particularly valuable in Trusham because the village sits on geology that includes shales and the "Trusham series" fine loamy soils. These clay-rich materials are susceptible to shrink-swell movement, especially during periods of drought or when large trees are present nearby. Properties with shallower foundations, common in older buildings, can be vulnerable to subsidence or ground movement. Our surveyors specifically examine walls, floors, and foundations for signs of this type of structural stress, looking for characteristic diagonal cracking near windows and doors that often indicates ground movement.

The surrounding area near the River Teign means river flooding potential exists for lower-lying properties in the valley. Trusham properties may also be affected by hidden drainage issues, particularly where original gutters and downpipes have been concealed within walls over the years. Our detailed inspection process uncovers these problems before they become expensive surprises for new owners. We also note the proximity to the Haldon Hills and how this can affect drainage patterns around properties.

The village has seen various trades practiced here over the centuries, including shoemakers, dressmakers, and thatchers, though these traditional occupations have largely disappeared. Today the Cridford Inn, converted from an old farmhouse and barn in 1985, serves as a local hub. Our surveyors understand this evolution from agricultural community to residential village, which helps explain the mix of property types and construction methods found in the area.

• Stone wall condition and mortar deterioration
• Roof tile damage and slate deterioration
• Foundation movement and subsidence signs
• Damp penetration and rising damp
• Timber decay and woodworm infestation
• Electrical and plumbing condition

Our surveyors regularly identify several recurring issues when inspecting older properties in the Trusham area. Damp problems rank among the most common findings, particularly penetrating damp caused by aging stonework, cracked render, or defective pointing. The traditional renders used on cob and stone walls can deteriorate over decades, allowing moisture to penetrate deep into the structure. Rising damp also affects many period properties, especially where original damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed. Properties in Trusham often feature solid walls rather than cavity walls, which makes them more susceptible to moisture penetration and requires different treatment for remediation.

Roof condition represents another significant area of concern in this village. Many Trusham properties feature original slate roofs, some dating back over a hundred years. While properly maintained slate can last centuries, deterioration of ridge mortar, broken tiles, and failed flashings are common issues. We also see problems where homeowners have replaced original clay tiles with heavier concrete tiles, which can cause structural stress on roof trusses through roof spread. The proximity to the River Teign and the Haldon Hills means roofs here can be exposed to strong winds, which accelerates wear on tiles and pointing.

Electrical systems in older properties frequently require updating to meet current safety standards. Original wiring, often cloth-covered or rubber-insulated, poses fire risks and may not cope with modern household demands. Similarly, plumbing systems may contain lead pipes or outdated galvanised steel that should be replaced. Our surveyors note these issues and flag them appropriately in your report, helping you prioritise safety-critical work. Given that many Trusham properties have been only partially updated over the years, it's common to find a mixture of old and new electrical and plumbing installations that can create complications.

Structural movement, while not always serious, appears regularly in older properties due to thermal movement, settlement, and ground conditions. Our inspectors distinguish between minor cosmetic cracks indicating normal movement and more serious patterns suggesting structural concerns requiring further investigation. Given Trusham's shrink-swell clay soils, we pay particular attention to cracks near windows and doors, as well as any signs of subsidence or heave. The underlying geology that includes dolerite from the old quarry can also affect ground conditions in some areas.

We also note issues with hidden drainage, particularly in older properties where gutters may have been concealed within walls or where original drainage systems have been modified over time. Blocked or damaged drains can lead to damp problems and structural damage if not identified and addressed. Our surveyors will check visible drainage provisions and note any concerns that warrant further investigation by a drainage specialist.