RICS Level 2 Survey in Wraxall and Failand

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and important fixtures, identifying any visible defects, structural concerns, or potential maintenance issues. The survey includes a market value assessment and a comprehensive condition rating system that highlights defects according to their severity, from urgent issues requiring immediate attention to minor cosmetic matters. Our inspectors use the RICS traffic light system - red for urgent defects requiring immediate attention, amber for issues requiring future repair, and green for satisfactory condition - making it straightforward for you to prioritise remedial work.

In a village location like Wraxall and Failand, many properties will have been built using traditional construction methods common to North Somerset, including stone and brickwork that may be susceptible to age-related issues. Our inspectors are familiar with the types of properties found in this area and understand the typical defects that affect homes in the region, from weathering on older roof coverings to potential issues with damp in period properties. We have inspected numerous homes in the BS48 postcode area and understand how the local clay geology can influence foundation conditions in older buildings, particularly those constructed before modern building regulations came into effect.

The survey report includes clear colour-coded ratings that make it easy to understand which issues are critical and which can be addressed over time. We provide practical recommendations for each defect identified, including guidance on whether specialist investigations are needed. This level of detail proves invaluable when negotiating the purchase price or requesting repairs from the seller before completion. Our reports typically run to 30-40 pages for a standard property, providing comprehensive documentation that your solicitor can use during the conveyancing process.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Structural condition assessment
• Roof, chimney, and rainwater goods
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and timber condition check
• Electrical and plumbing visible defects
• Market value opinion and insurance rebuild cost

Properties in Wraxall and Failand, particularly those over 50 years old, often present issues that our surveyors frequently identify during inspections. Damp problems rank among the most common concerns, especially in period properties where original construction methods may lack modern damp-proofing courses. Rising damp and penetrating damp can affect walls, particularly where pointing has deteriorated or render has been damaged. In this part of North Somerset, we frequently see evidence of damp affecting solid walls that were never designed to meet modern thermal efficiency standards. The clay soil conditions common in the area can also contribute to moisture-related issues in below-ground areas such as cellars and basements.

Roof conditions represent another significant area of concern in this part of North Somerset. Older properties may have original roof coverings that have exceeded their expected lifespan, with slipped tiles, degraded felt underlays, and failing leadwork all commonly identified. Our inspectors examine roof spaces where accessible and assess the overall condition of coverings, chimneys, and rainwater systems. Properties with traditional clay tile roofs, common throughout the villages, often show signs of moss growth and deterioration to mortar pointing between tiles, which can lead to water ingress over time. Chimney stacks on period properties frequently require attention, with deteriorating brickwork, damaged flashing, and unstable parging all issues we regularly encounter.

Electrical systems in properties built before the 1990s frequently require attention, with original wiring often failing to meet current safety standards. The presence of outdated consumer units, insufficient socket outlets, and ageing cable insulation are issues that our surveyors note and recommend for further investigation by qualified electricians. Similarly, plumbing in older properties may feature galvanized steel pipes that have corroded internally, restricting water flow and affecting water quality. We also commonly identify inadequate loft insulation in properties that have not been updated in recent years, a issue that affects both energy efficiency and property condition.

Given the clay geology prevalent in parts of North Somerset, foundation movement due to shrink-swell soil activity is a concern for some properties in this area. Properties built on clay soils can experience foundation movement as the ground moisture content changes with the seasons, particularly where trees or large shrubs are present near the building. This movement can manifest as cracking in external walls, particularly around window and door openings, and our inspectors are trained to identify the signs of potential subsidence or heave. While not all properties in Wraxall and Failand will be affected, this is a specific local factor that makes professional surveying expertise valuable.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof covering deterioration
• Outdated electrical systems
• Deteriorated pointing and render
• Foundation movement (clay soils)
• Window and door joinery decay
• Chimney stack condition
• Lack of loft insulation