RICS Level 3 Survey Kentisbury

The RICS Level 3 Survey represents the most comprehensive examination of a property's condition available under the RICS framework. Formerly known as a Full Structural Survey, this inspection goes far beyond the basic visual assessment provided by Level 2 surveys. Our inspectors examine every accessible element of the property, from the roof structure and load-bearing walls to the foundations, damp proofing, and insulation. The result is a detailed report that colour-codes issues by severity and provides specific recommendations for repairs and maintenance.

For properties in Kentisbury, where many homes are likely to be of traditional construction dating from various periods, the Level 3 survey proves particularly valuable. The report includes a thorough assessment of the property's construction type, materials used, and any inherent weaknesses associated with that building style. Our surveyors also examine the surrounding environment, checking for potential issues such as trees close to foundations, drainage problems, or signs of past movement that could affect the long-term structural integrity.

Unlike basic mortgage valuations, the Level 3 survey focuses entirely on condition and defects rather than market value. This means you receive practical, actionable information about what works need doing, roughly how much they might cost, and how urgently they require attention. The report runs to dozens of pages for typical properties, with photographs, diagrams, and clear explanations throughout. You can then use this information to negotiate the purchase price, request repairs before completion, or make an informed decision to walk away if the findings are too concerning.

Our surveyors check for structural issues that might not be visible during a casual viewing. This includes assessing the condition of hidden elements like roof voids (where accessible), sub-floor areas, and behind plasterwork where signs of damp or timber decay may be present. We also examine the property's relationship with adjacent structures, boundary walls, and any outbuildings that form part of the sale.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Chimneys and flues
• Dampness and timber decay
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical basics
• Exterior finishes
• Garages and outbuildings

Properties in Kentisbury and the surrounding North Devon countryside reflect the area's long architectural history. Many homes in this region were built using traditional methods that differ significantly from modern construction. Stone walls, often of local Devon stone, are common in older cottages and farmhouses, while some properties feature timber-framed construction with rendered or cob infill. Understanding these traditional building methods is essential because each comes with its own characteristic defects that our surveyors know exactly how to identify.

The roofing on Kentisbury properties typically features slate, which was widely used throughout North Devon, or in some cases, traditional thatch on older cottages. Slate roofs in this area can be susceptible to deterioration over time, particularly where fixings have corroded or where wind exposure has caused slippage. Our inspectors examine roof slopes methodically, checking for missing or damaged slates, signs of previous repairs, and the condition of ridge tiles and hip junctions. We also inspect chimney stacks, which are a common feature on period properties and often show signs of decay in their mortar joints or flashing.

Many properties in the Kentisbury area sit on ground that contains clay deposits, which can shrink and swell with seasonal moisture changes. This ground movement, known as shrink-swell, can affect foundations, particularly where trees are present or where drainage is poor. Our surveyors assess the foundations for signs of movement, such as cracking in walls or doors that no longer close properly. We also note the proximity of trees to buildings, as root systems can cause ground compaction or direct damage to foundations over time.

Drainage is another critical area our team examines for Kentisbury properties. Older homes often have drainage systems that were installed when the property was built and may never have been updated. We check gullies, soil pipes, and the general condition of the drainage run from the property. Where properties are in more rural locations, we also consider the type of sewage system in place, whether it's connected to mains drainage or uses a septic tank or cess pit, as this has implications for both the property's condition and potential ongoing costs.

Kentisbury lies within the beautiful North Devon countryside, an area that attracts buyers seeking rural charm combined with access to nearby towns like Barnstaple. The local housing stock reflects this demand, with detached properties commanding premium prices. Many homes in the area will have been built across different eras using traditional construction methods that vary significantly in their structural characteristics and common defect patterns.

The Devon housing market has experienced notable activity, with approximately 15,500 property sales in the county over the past twelve months. While this represents a 15.6% decrease in transaction volume, property values in Kentisbury have shown remarkable resilience. Bricks&Logic data indicates prices have increased by 34.2% over the past ten years, with a small 0.2% uptick since the last recorded sale in November 2025. This steady growth makes it essential for buyers to understand exactly what they're getting for their investment.

Properties in rural North Devon often present unique challenges that a Level 3 survey addresses effectively. These can include older construction with potential hidden defects, drainage systems that may be original to the property, and external factors like trees or slopes that affect foundations. Our surveyors understand these local considerations and tailor their inspection accordingly. They know what to look for in traditional Devon cottages versus more recent constructions and can identify issues that might be missed by a less experienced assessor.

The South West region saw average property values decline by approximately £3,400 (-1%) over the twelve months leading into early 2026. This subtle market correction makes thorough due diligence even more important for Kentisbury buyers. A comprehensive survey helps you identify properties that might appear attractive but have underlying structural issues that could prove expensive to rectify. You enter the purchase with eyes wide open, ready to negotiate or proceed confidently.

When we survey properties in Kentisbury, we pay particular attention to how the property has been maintained over the years. Many homes in this area are holiday lets or second homes, which may have been subject to periods of vacancy. This can lead to specific issues such as damp from poor ventilation, plumbing problems from frozen pipes during winter months, or deterioration of external joinery from lack of ongoing maintenance. Our detailed inspection covers all these possibilities, giving you a complete picture of the property's true condition.