RICS Level 3 Building Survey St. Breward

Our RICS Level 3 survey in St. Breward goes far beyond a basic condition report. We conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where we can often access it, the exterior walls, foundations, and internal rooms. Our inspectors systematically examine the condition of the structure, identifying any defects, decay, or damage that could affect the property's integrity or value. We assess the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, documenting any signs of movement, dampness, or deterioration that we encounter during our inspection.

The report we produce for your St. Breward property includes detailed findings on the condition of all major building elements, from the roofing materials and chimney stacks to the damp proof course and drainage systems. We provide clear explanations of any defects we find, including their likely cause, the urgency of any repairs needed, and guidance on what further investigation might be required. For properties in St. Breward, where traditional granite and stone construction is common, we pay particular attention to the condition of pointing, any signs of movement in stonework, and the condition of timber elements that may be present in roofs and floors.

Understanding the specific construction challenges in Cornwall is essential when surveying properties in St. Breward. Our inspectors are familiar with traditional Cornish building methods, including the use of local granite, slaty mudstones, and sandstones that characterise properties in this area. We know how these materials behave over time and what to look for when assessing their condition. We also understand how properties in this region can be affected by their moorland setting, including considerations around drainage and the potential for moisture penetration that can affect older properties.

One specific issue we watch for in Cornwall properties is the potential for mundic block construction, where concrete blocks made with mining waste can deteriorate and cause structural problems. While not specific to St. Breward, our surveyors are trained to identify non-standard construction methods that could affect the structural integrity of a property. Additionally, we pay close attention to the condition of timber elements, checking for rot and insect infestation that can compromise structural members in older properties.

• Comprehensive structural assessment
• Detailed defect analysis
• Condition ratings for all elements
• Repair recommendations and priorities
• Advice on further investigations
• Market value opinion

The property market in St. Breward presents unique considerations that make a comprehensive RICS Level 3 survey particularly valuable. With house prices having experienced significant movement in recent years, understanding the true condition of any property you are considering purchasing is essential. The average property price in the area stands at around £252,000, but this figure encompasses a range of property types from terraced cottages to larger detached homes. A detailed survey helps ensure you are making an informed investment in a property that meets your needs and does not come with unexpected repair costs.

St. Breward's location on Bodmin Moor means that many properties in the area face particular challenges related to their moorland setting. The geology of the area, characterised by granite outcrops and peat deposits, can affect ground conditions and drainage. Properties may be situated in areas where the drainage is poor, leading to potential issues with dampness or water management. Our inspectors are aware of these local factors and pay close attention to any signs of dampness, condensation, or drainage issues that could affect the property's condition over time.

The historical nature of much of the housing stock in St. Breward also means that many properties will have been subject to various alterations and repairs over the years. While some of these may have been carried out to a high standard using appropriate traditional materials, others may have used modern materials that are incompatible with traditional construction. This can lead to problems such as trapped moisture and accelerated decay. Our detailed survey identifies these issues and provides you with the information you need to address them, whether through the seller or through your own future renovation plans.

Given that St. Breward has a history of granite quarrying with over 25 quarries in the area over the centuries (though only De Lank Quarry remains active), our surveyors also consider any localized ground stability concerns that might arise from historical quarrying activity. While granite quarrying differs from metal mining, any historical workings could pose localized ground stability risks in certain areas that we take into account during our inspection of foundations and external walls.