RICS Level 2 Survey in Withypool and Hawkridge

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition, examining all accessible areas including walls, roofs, floors, doors, and windows. We inspect the condition of the building's structure, looking for signs of subsidence, movement, or structural weaknesses that could compromise the property's integrity. In Withypool and Hawkridge, where many properties feature traditional stone construction dating back to the 17th century or earlier, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of stone walls, pointing, and any signs of water penetration that can be problematic in older structures. We examine the external fabric methodically, noting any areas where traditional lime mortar pointing has deteriorated and allowing moisture to penetrate the wall structure.

The survey includes a thorough evaluation of the property's damp levels, checking both rising damp and penetrating damp that affects many historic properties in the Exmoor area. We assess the condition of any damp-proof courses and recommend remediation where original protective measures have failed or were never installed. Our inspection covers timber elements including joists, rafters, and window frames, looking for evidence of woodworm, rot, or beetle infestation that often affects older properties with traditional timber construction. In properties near the River Barle, we pay particular attention to ground floor timbers that may be at risk from elevated moisture levels, especially in properties with suspended timber floors.

We examine all visible and accessible elements of the property's services, including plumbing, electrical wiring, heating systems, and drainage. Our report highlights any obvious safety concerns or installations that do not meet current regulations, giving you a clear picture of what may require updating. The survey also assesses any outbuildings, garages, or boundary walls that form part of the property, providing a complete picture of the overall condition and maintenance requirements. Many properties in Withypool and Hawkridge include traditional stone outbuildings or barns that may have conversion potential, and we assess their current structural condition as part of the survey.

Our surveyor will also inspect the roof space where safe and accessible access is available, examining the condition of rafters, battens, and any insulation materials. We look for signs of past or current leaks, timber decay, and assess whether the roof structure is adequate for the property. For properties with thatched roofs, which are a traditional feature in the Exmoor area, we identify the condition of the thatch and advise on any areas requiring attention from a specialist thatcher.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical services
• Boundaries and outbuildings

Properties in Withypool and Hawkridge face unique challenges that our surveyors understand intimately. The village's location within Exmoor National Park means many homes are constructed from local stone, often with traditional lime mortar pointing that requires different maintenance approaches to modern cement-based mortars. Our inspectors assess the condition of stone walls, looking for signs of weathering, vegetation growth, and mortar degradation that can allow water penetration. The historic nature of the village means properties may have been subject to various alterations over centuries, and we identify any structural changes that might affect the building's integrity. We frequently encounter properties where historic additions have been made, and our surveyors understand how to assess the junction between old and new construction.

The River Barle runs through the village, and properties near the watercourse may face specific considerations including potential flood risk and elevated dampness levels. Our surveyors inspect lower ground floors and basements with particular attention, checking for signs of previous water ingress or damp-related issues. Properties in this area often feature traditional drainage systems that may require updating to meet current standards, and our reports highlight any concerns that warrant further investigation. If you're considering a property near the River Barle, particularly along Water Street or near the village centre, our survey will assess any flood-related issues and advise on appropriate investigations.

With historical sold prices showing a 46% increase over the previous year, the Withypool and Hawkridge property market remains active, with detached properties commanding premium prices. Our survey reports provide the information you need to make an informed purchase decision, buying a traditional cottage, a farmstead, or a modernised period property. The detailed condition assessment helps you budget for any remedial work required, ensuring no unexpected costs arise after completion. Properties in the area include historic farmhouses around the village green, stone cottages along the main road, and traditional longhouses that reflect the agricultural heritage of Exmoor.

The local geology and soil conditions in the Withypool area can affect property foundations, particularly in areas with clay soils that experience seasonal shrink-swell movement. Our surveyors are familiar with how local ground conditions affect different property types and will note any signs of foundation movement or subsidence that may be related to ground conditions. For properties built on the slopes surrounding the village, we pay attention to retaining walls and any terracing that may have been created to accommodate the topography.

• Stone wall condition and pointing
• Traditional drainage systems
• Flood risk near River Barle
• Lime mortar vs cement assessment
• Historic alteration identification
• Listed building considerations