RICS Level 2 Survey in Wembury

A RICS Level 2 Survey includes a thorough visual inspection of the property's condition, identifying specific defects and their severity using a traffic light rating system. It covers the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and key services, providing practical recommendations for repairs and further investigations. A basic valuation only provides an estimated market value without assessing condition or identifying defects, meaning you could miss significant issues that cost thousands to put right. For a village like Wembury where properties regularly sell for over £500,000, the detailed condition assessment provided by a Level 2 survey is invaluable for making an informed purchase decision.

RICS Level 2 Survey prices in Wembury typically start from around £400 for smaller properties and range up to £600 or more for larger homes. The exact price depends on the property's size, age, and complexity. Given Wembury's average property price of over £500,000, the survey cost represents a small fraction of the purchase price and can identify issues worth thousands in repair costs. Properties with unusual access requirements, extensive grounds, or that are listed buildings may require additional survey time, and we provide a bespoke quote for each inspection.

While a RICS Level 2 Survey can be undertaken on listed buildings, properties with Grade I, II* or II listing status in Wembury may benefit from a more detailed assessment. The significant number of protected buildings in the parish, including the 14th-century St Werburgh's Church and historic properties like the Hele Almshouses, often require surveyors with specific listed building experience. Our team can advise whether additional specialist input is recommended, and for properties of significant historic interest, we may recommend a RICS Level 3 Building Survey with additional scope for historic building assessment.

Yes, our surveyors specifically check for signs of dampness, which is a common issue in coastal areas like Wembury. We inspect walls, floors, and roof spaces for evidence of rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation. Given Wembury's position near the coast, salt damp and moisture penetration from wind-driven rain are particular concerns that our surveyors look for during the inspection. We use thermal inspection equipment where appropriate to identify areas of moisture penetration and cold bridging that might not be visible to the naked eye. For solid-walled properties common in the area, which don't have cavity insulation to protect against moisture, this assessment is particularly important.

If our survey identifies serious defects rated as red or amber, we provide clear recommendations for further investigation by specialists such as structural engineers, damp specialists, or electricians. You can then use this information to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a price reduction, or decide whether to proceed with the purchase knowing the full extent of any issues. Our reports include estimated costs for significant repairs, giving you concrete data to support any negotiation. In the current Wembury market where properties frequently sell for over asking price, having a detailed survey report gives you confidence in your purchasing decision or valuable leverage in negotiations.

The on-site inspection typically takes between 2-4 hours depending on the property size and complexity. For larger detached properties in Wembury, which average £564,083, the inspection may take longer due to the additional roof space, sub-floor areas, and outbuildings that typically accompany family homes in this price range. You'll receive your written report within 3-5 working days of the inspection, allowing sufficient time to make informed decisions before exchange deadlines. We understand that buying chains can move quickly, and we prioritise turnaround times to ensure you have your report when you need it.

As a coastal village close to Plymouth Sound, Wembury does present some flood risk considerations that our surveyors address in our reports. We assess the property's proximity to the coastline, the effectiveness of existing drainage, and any signs of previous flooding. While major flood events are rare in the village itself, properties near Wembury Beach and Bovisand Harbour warrant particular attention. We recommend that buyers check the Environment Agency flood risk maps and consider insurance implications before completing a purchase in coastal areas.

The 1930s detached homes that make up a significant portion of Wembury's housing stock present several common survey findings. These properties typically feature solid brick walls without cavity insulation, which can lead to condensation issues, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens. Roof tiles from this era often show signs of deterioration, with cracked or slipped tiles allowing water penetration. Original electrical installations from the 1930s are frequently inadequate for modern usage and may not meet current safety regulations. Our surveyors also commonly find that original timber windows in these properties require maintenance or restoration, and that gutter and downpipe systems show age-related wear that needs attention.