RICS Level 3 Survey in Askerswell

Askerswell's housing stock presents unique challenges that make a RICS Level 3 Survey essential. The village contains numerous properties built in the 17th century using traditional rubble stone construction, with roofs of thatch or slate. These period properties, while full of character, can develop structural issues that only an experienced surveyor can identify. The average property price in Askerswell stands at £507,500, with detached homes averaging £640,000, making it crucial to understand the true condition of any investment in this sought-after Dorset village.

The village sits on the small River Asker and is surrounded by chalk and sand soils, typical of the Dorset countryside. While flooding has not been a significant documented issue, older properties in this location may have foundations that have settled over centuries. The combination of historic building techniques and local soil conditions means our surveyors pay particular attention to foundation conditions and signs of movement in stonework. We assess how the chalk substrate may have affected traditional foundation depths and whether any remedial work has been carried out over the years.

Additionally, the prevalence of listed buildings in Askerswell, with 20 structures listed by English Heritage including two Grade II* buildings and 14 Grade II listings, means that many properties will have specific preservation requirements and potential historic fabric issues. The parish church of St Michael and All Angels, which features an early 15th-century west tower, represents the kind of heritage asset that requires specialist understanding. Properties such as Askerswell House, a Grade II listed building dating from the mid-18th century with sections from 1714, or the various farmhouses along Nallers Lane and Hembury Road, represent the kind of complex historic structures where a detailed Level 3 survey proves invaluable.

Many properties in Askerswell have undergone sympathetic alterations over the years, while others may have had less appropriate modifications. Our surveyors check for the impact of these changes on structural integrity, particularly in buildings where original timber-framed elements may have been exposed or hidden during renovation work. We also identify where alterations may require listed building consent or where building regulation approval may be missing.

Understanding the specific construction methods used in Askerswell properties is essential for conducting an accurate survey. The predominant building material in the village is rubble stone, sourced locally from the chalk and sandstone deposits in the area. This traditional construction method creates walls that are typically solid rather than cavity walls, meaning they behave differently from modern constructions when exposed to moisture or structural stress. Our surveyors are trained to assess these solid stone walls, identifying issues such as mortar deterioration, vegetation growth, and water penetration that can compromise the fabric of the building.

Roofing materials in Askerswell fall primarily into two categories: thatch and slate. Thatched roofs, such as those found on Fir Tree Cottage around the Square, require specialist knowledge to assess properly. We examine the condition of the thatch, checking for signs of deterioration, animal infestation, and the integrity of the ridge. Slate roofs, while more common on larger properties like Askerswell House, present their own challenges including slippage, broken tiles, and deterioration of lead flashings. The combination of flint and stone facades seen on properties like Askerswell House requires particular attention to the bonding between different materials.

Traditional timber-framed elements are another feature of Askerswell's older properties. We assess timber joists, beams, and structural framing for signs of rot, beetle infestation, and previous work that may have weakened structural members. In properties where internal partitions have been removed to create larger rooms, we check whether adequate support has been provided and whether any resulting movement has occurred in the structure above.

Your RICS Level 3 Survey report goes far beyond a simple condition check. It provides an intelligent and objective assessment of the property's current state, identifying defects that affect value and making recommendations for repairs and maintenance. The report is written in clear, jargon-free language that helps you understand exactly what you're buying. We avoid technical terminology where possible, and where we must use technical terms, we explain them in plain English.

For properties in Askerswell, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in period properties. This includes checking for damp penetration in solid walls, which can be more problematic than in modern cavity wall constructions. We assess the condition of thatch or slate roofing, evaluating any signs of deterioration or past repairs. We evaluate any signs of structural movement in older stonework, looking for patterns of cracking that might indicate ongoing subsidence or settlement. We examine timber elements for rot or pest infestation, including common wood-boring beetles that affect historic properties.

The report includes a section on legal considerations that your conveyancing solicitor should investigate further. This covers issues such as rights of way, boundaries, and any planning or building regulation approvals for previous alterations. Given the number of listed buildings in Askerswell, we also highlight any Heritage considerations that may affect future renovation plans. We note any visible alterations that may require listed building consent, and advise on the implications for future works.

Each report includes estimated costs for repairs, allowing you to budget accordingly and potentially negotiate with the seller based on our findings. We provide priority ratings for each issue identified, so you can understand which matters require immediate attention and which can be addressed over time. For properties in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we also note any implications of AONB status on potential future developments.

While Askerswell is primarily known for its historic properties, the village is seeing some new development. Rocky Close Farm has received planning approval for two new homes, and there are outline applications pending for additional properties including a new house next to The Old Wheelwrights Shop. If you're considering a new build in the area, our survey can still provide valuable information, identifying any construction defects or issues with materials that may not be immediately apparent.

New properties in Dorset may still present issues such as inadequate ventilation, thermal bridging, or problems with modern construction systems. Our detailed survey will check that the property meets current building regulation standards and identify any defects in the construction that should be addressed by the developer. Even new builds can have issues with damp arising from inadequate drying out during the construction process or problems with window and door installations.

We recommend a Level 3 Survey for new builds in Askerswell because the detailed assessment can identify snagging issues that you would otherwise discover only after moving in. Given the significant investment required for any property in this desirable village, the additional cost of a thorough survey is money well spent. Our surveyors can also advise on any guarantees or warranties that may be available and assess their validity.