RICS Level 3 Survey in Chittlehamholt

The housing stock in Chittlehamholt presents unique challenges that make a RICS Level 3 Survey particularly valuable. The village contains a high proportion of cob and stone-built properties, traditional construction methods that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. These older buildings often have shallow foundations and were constructed before modern building regulations, meaning they may have structural characteristics that differ significantly from newer properties. Our surveyors have experience assessing these traditional Devon constructions and understand how to identify issues that a surveyor unfamiliar with local building methods might miss.

The local economy significantly influences the property market here. Chittlehamholt and the surrounding area are affected by second-home ownership and retirement migration, which means many properties may have been vacant for periods or subject to DIY renovations of varying quality. Our inspectors are familiar with the types of alterations and maintenance issues that arise in these scenarios, from properties that have been lovingly restored to those where deferred maintenance has allowed problems to develop.

Our inspectors examine the condition of load-bearing walls, floors, and roofs in detail. We check for signs of movement, damp penetration, and material degradation that could affect the property's structural integrity. For Chittlehamholt's thatched properties, we pay particular attention to roof condition, fire safety considerations, and the structural soundness of the timber framing beneath the thatch. We also note any listed building considerations, as the village contains several Grade II listed properties where planning constraints apply to future alterations.

The rural setting also means properties may be affected by agricultural activities nearby, including potential issues with radon gas in certain geological areas and the presence of historic mine workings in parts of North Devon. Our surveyors factor these local environmental considerations into their assessment, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the property's condition within its specific context.

• Cob and stone wall assessment
• Thatched roof inspection
• Foundation and subsidence check
• Damp and timber decay investigation
• Listed building compliance review
• Electrical and drainage observation

Our experience surveying properties across North Devon has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of when purchasing in Chittlehamholt. Damp and moisture problems are particularly common in older cob buildings, especially where inappropriate modern cement renders have been applied. These renders can trap moisture within the cob walls, leading to deterioration and structural concerns over time. Our inspectors know to look for the tell-tale signs of this type of moisture entrapment, including soft spots in walls and salt efflorescence.

Roofing issues also feature prominently in our surveys. Traditional thatched roofs, while beautiful, require ongoing maintenance and have specific fire safety considerations that buyers should understand. The timber framing beneath thatch can be affected by woodworm or rot if the roof has been allowed to deteriorate. Slate roofs on period properties may be reaching the end of their lifespan, with slipped tiles and deteriorating fixings being common findings. Our inspectors assess the roof structure carefully, checking for timber decay, past repairs, and the overall integrity of the covering.

Structural movement is another key area of focus. Older properties with shallow foundations can be susceptible to ground movement, particularly in areas with variable soil conditions common in parts of North Devon. We look for signs of cracking, uneven floors, and door and window operation that may indicate underlying structural issues. For properties with timber frames, we assess for woodworm activity and rot that could compromise structural elements.

The rural location also means we pay attention to issues that may affect properties differently than in urban areas. These include drainage systems that may discharge to septic tanks or private treatment systems rather than mains sewers, rainwater harvesting systems, and the condition of private water supplies where properties are not connected to mains water. Our survey covers all these elements to give you a complete picture.

• Damp and moisture in cob walls
• Thatched roof condition and maintenance
• Timber decay in historic frames
• Foundation and subsidence movement
• Inappropriate modern alterations
• Electrical and plumbing condition