RICS Level 3 Building Survey in EX6 7

The EX6 7 postcode encompasses a diverse range of properties, from historic village cottages to modern family homes. Many properties in this area were built using traditional construction methods including local stone, cob, and brick, with slate or thatched roofs. These older properties, while full of character, often have hidden defects that only a thorough structural survey can uncover. The villages of Kenn, Christow, and Dunsford within the Teign Valley contain numerous pre-1900 properties that require specialist assessment by surveyors familiar with traditional building methods.

Our Level 3 Building Survey is particularly valuable in this area because many villages contain properties that predate modern building regulations. The Teign Valley region, which falls within EX6 7, has areas with clay soils that can cause foundation movement, leading to subsidence or structural cracking. During our inspections, we frequently see signs of historic movement in properties built on these reactive soils, particularly following the dry summers and wet winters that Devon has experienced in recent years. A comprehensive survey will identify these risks before you commit to your purchase.

Properties near the River Teign and its tributaries face potential flood risk, and our surveyors pay particular attention to flood damage history, damp penetration, and drainage issues that are common in valley locations. Kennford, situated near the River Teign and its tributaries, is particularly susceptible to fluvial flooding. We also check for issues specific to non-traditional construction types found in the area, such as Woolaway Bungalows, which require expert assessment due to their pre-fabricated concrete construction methods.

The Exeter employment market drives significant commuter interest in EX6 7, with the A38 providing direct links to the city. Many buyers work at the University of Exeter, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, or Exeter Airport, seeking a rural lifestyle while maintaining city access. This demand means properties command premium prices, making it even more important to understand the true condition of any property before purchase.

• Traditional stone and cob construction
• Clay soil subsidence risk
• Flood-prone valley locations
• Pre-1900 period properties
• Listed building considerations
• Non-standard construction types

Our experience surveying properties across the Teign Valley and surrounding villages has revealed several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in older properties, especially those without modern damp-proof courses or with solid walls. Properties built with cob construction, while beautiful and characteristic of this area, can suffer from erosion and water damage if not properly maintained. We frequently find rising damp in properties built before the 1920s and penetrating damp in properties with aging pointing or damaged render.

Timber defects affect many properties in the area, with woodworm and rot frequently found in roof structures, floor joists, and window frames. The age of many properties in EX6 7 means original roofing materials such as slate often require attention, and thatched roofs need specialist inspection by someone familiar with traditional roofing methods. We check all accessible timber elements for signs of beetle activity and fungal decay, which can compromise structural integrity if left untreated.

Foundation movement is another concern in this part of Devon. Properties built on reactive clay soils can suffer from shrink-swell issues, particularly during dry summers or wet winters. This can lead to cracking in walls, especially in properties with shallow foundations. We assess the condition of foundations, looking for signs of movement such as cracking, door misalignment, or or depression in floors. Our surveyors know exactly what signs to look for and can assess whether any movement is active or historic, and whether it requires further investigation.

The area also has a historical mining background, and while EX6 7 is not a primary mining area, some localized shallow mining or quarrying could exist in certain locations. Our survey includes visual assessment of the property and surrounding ground conditions, and we can recommend a mining report if we identify any specific concerns. Additionally, properties in flood-risk areas along the River Teign may have experienced previous flood damage, which we investigate thoroughly during our inspection.

Electrical and plumbing defects are commonly found in older properties that have not been updated in recent years. Original Victorian or Edwardian wiring may still be present in some pre-1900 properties, presenting fire risks. Similarly, lead pipes or old galvanised plumbing systems are frequently encountered and may require updating. We note these issues in our report and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers.