RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Edington

The village of Edington, nestled in the Somerset countryside between Bridgwater and Glastonbury, presents a diverse housing stock that reflects its rich history. Properties here range from historic sandstone cottages dating back centuries to more recent developments constructed during the latter twentieth century. Each property type brings its own set of potential issues that only a thorough Level 3 survey can identify. The village sits within the TA7 postcode area, which encompasses several nearby villages including Ashcott, Puriton, Chilton Polden, and Woolavington, all sharing similar construction characteristics.

Our inspectors have extensive experience examining properties throughout the Sedgemoor district, including Edington, Cossington, and the surrounding villages. We understand how the local geology, particularly the clay soils prevalent in this part of Somerset, can affect building foundations over time. During periods of drought or excessive moisture, clay soils expand and contract, potentially causing foundation movement and subsidence. Our inspectors recognise the specific construction methods used in the area, from traditional stone masonry to the cavity wall construction common in post-war properties built between the 1950s and 1980s.

A RICS Level 3 Survey is particularly valuable in Edington given the age profile of many properties in the village. The thorough inspection covers structural elements, condition, and potential defects that might not be apparent during a casual viewing. Our report will highlight any issues requiring immediate attention, those that may develop in the future, and provide cost estimates for essential repairs. We have identified common issues in local properties, including deteriorating stone pointing in period cottages, rusting lintels in post-war builds, and the effects of rising damp in properties with solid walls.

The broader TA7 postcode area has seen limited new-build development in recent years, with most properties on the market being either period homes or constructions from the mid-to-late twentieth century. This means that buyers should be aware of potential issues associated with both historic and post-war construction. Properties built before 2000 may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, or roofing materials, while properties from the 1970s and 1980s often feature concrete components that can deteriorate over time.

• Foundation and substructure assessment
• Roof condition and materials
• Wall construction and defect analysis
• Damp and timber decay investigation
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Thermal efficiency evaluation

Edington's position in the Somerset Levels means that some properties, particularly those in lower-lying areas near the River Brue, may be affected by occasional flooding or high water tables. Our Level 3 survey includes an assessment of flood risk indicators and the condition of any existing flood mitigation measures. We note the condition of drainage systems, soakaways, and the property's overall relationship to local water courses. Properties in flood-prone areas may require specialist drainage surveys or flood resilience assessments, which we can recommend based on our findings.

Many properties in Edington feature traditional construction methods that predate modern building regulations. Stone walls, thatched roofs, and historic timber frames require specialist knowledge to assess correctly. Our inspectors understand these traditional building techniques and can identify issues specific to older properties, such as mortar deterioration in stonework, timber rot in ancient beams, or the condition of historic fireplaces and chimneys. We recognise that period properties often require different assessment criteria than modern constructions.

The village has seen limited new build development in recent years, with most properties on the market being either period homes or constructions from the mid-to-late twentieth century. This means that buyers should be aware of potential issues associated with both historic and post-war construction. Older properties may have hidden defects such as rotted timber in floor structures, inadequate ventilation causing condensation, or outdated electrical installations that do not meet current regulations. Post-war properties built with concrete systems may have deterioration issues that are not immediately visible.

The broader TA7 postcode area, which includes Edington and surrounding villages, has seen some new-build development at locations such as Pipers Farm in Ashcott and Polden Orchards in Woolavington. However, even new build properties can benefit from a Level 3 Survey. While the property is new, the survey can identify any construction defects, shortcuts taken during building, or issues with workmanship that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. It provides valuable documentation of the property's condition at handover, which can be useful for warranty purposes.