RICS Level 3 Survey in Croscombe

The village of Croscombe, situated in the Shepton Mallet area of Somerset, boasts a charming selection of traditional properties that reflect the area's rich architectural heritage. Many homes in the village are constructed from local stone, featuring original period features such as exposed beams, inglenook fireplaces, and thick walls that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. A RICS Level 3 survey is particularly valuable for these older properties, as standard mortgage valuations do not adequately address the condition of historic buildings. The village's proximity to Wells and the surrounding Mendip Hills area means many properties benefit from traditional Mendip stone construction, typically Blue Lias or Doulting stone, which has its own specific maintenance requirements.

Our inspectors understand the specific challenges facing properties in rural Somerset, where traditional building methods and materials can present unique maintenance requirements. Stone walls, for example, require particular attention to mortar condition and damp penetration, while older roofs may contain traditional lime mortar pointing that differs significantly from modern cement-based materials. We provide detailed guidance on these aspects, ensuring you understand both the current condition of the property and the ongoing maintenance requirements. The underlying geology of the Croscombe area includes clay deposits which can cause ground movement, so we pay particular attention to foundations and signs of subsidence or settlement in our assessments.

The majority of properties in Croscombe fall into the pre-1919 category, with many being Victorian or Edwardian era homes that have seen various alterations and extensions over the decades. These older properties often require a more detailed assessment than newer builds, as hidden defects may have developed over many years of occupation. Our Level 3 survey examines the property holistically, considering how previous modifications may have affected the building's structural integrity and what future maintenance you should anticipate. We also assess any listed building considerations, as many properties in the village carry Grade II listing status, which brings specific responsibilities and constraints for any renovation or repair work.

• Stone wall condition assessment
• Roof structure and covering inspection
• Foundation and substructure examination
• Damp and timber decay analysis
• Electrical and plumbing condition review
• Energy efficiency assessment

Your RICS Level 3 survey report is designed to give you a complete picture of the property's condition at the time of inspection. The report begins with an executive summary that highlights the most significant findings, followed by detailed sections covering each area of the property. We use clear language throughout, avoiding technical jargon where possible, and when technical terms are necessary, we provide explanations to ensure you fully understand the issues discussed. Each section includes colour-coded condition ratings that make it easy to identify the severity of any issues found.

For properties in Croscombe, our reports pay particular attention to the condition of traditional construction elements. Stone walls are assessed for signs of movement, mortar deterioration, and damp penetration, while roof structures are examined for rot, insect infestation, and inadequate support. We also assess any modern additions or alterations, checking that they have been properly installed and do not compromise the integrity of the original building. This thorough approach reflects the additional complexity involved in assessing older properties. Given the prevalence of lime mortar pointing in older Somerset properties, we specifically note where modern cement mortar has been used inappropriately, as this can cause moisture retention and wall deterioration.

The report includes a clear condition rating system that helps you prioritise any work required. Each defect is assigned a rating from one to three, indicating whether immediate action is required, whether repairs should be planned for the near future, or whether the issue is merely noted for information. This system makes it easy to understand which issues are urgent and which can be addressed over time, helping you plan both your purchase decision and future maintenance budget. We also include estimated costs for recommended repairs, giving you a realistic view of the investment required to maintain the property.