RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Stawell

Stawell's unique geological composition presents specific challenges that our RICS Level 3 surveyors are trained to identify. The area features Keuper marl with ribbons of clay throughout its soil structure, and limestone outcrops visible on Cock Hill. Pendon Hill has a cap of lias while West Moor consists of alluvium. This clay-rich geology creates a significant shrink-swell risk, where soil volume fluctuates with moisture content, potentially causing subsidence or heave that compromises structural integrity over time. We have seen properties in this area affected by ground movement, particularly those with large trees nearby that draw moisture from the clay soil during summer months.

Properties in Stawell span several centuries of construction, from 16th-century timber-framed buildings like The Poplars and Onaping House, through early 18th-century structures such as Elm Tree Farm, to mid-18th-century properties including Stawell House. Snowdrop Cottage on the village edge dates to around 1600. This diverse architectural heritage means our surveyors must assess everything from traditional lime mortar pointing to modern construction techniques, each requiring different expertise to evaluate properly. We have inspected many properties in this village and understand how the different construction eras have influenced the buildings we see today.

The village has also seen substantial 20th-century infilling with substantial houses built in former farmyards, alongside newer developments like the Summerfield Homes project featuring energy-efficient properties with solar PV panels and EV chargers. This mix of old and new requires a survey methodology that can accurately assess both traditional construction defects and modern building compliance. We pay particular attention to properties that have been extended or modernised, as these changes can sometimes reveal issues with the original structure that need addressing.

Stawell was historically known for its distinctive white lias, a limestone variety that characterises many local buildings and requires specific assessment expertise. Our surveyors understand how to evaluate buildings constructed from this material, recognising the signs of weathering and erosion that can affect its longevity. This local knowledge, combined with our RICS training, ensures we provide the most accurate assessment possible for properties in this area.

• Clay shrink-swell subsidence risk
• Historic property defects
• Modern construction compliance
• Drainage and foundation issues

The traditional buildings in Stawell and the surrounding Somerset countryside were constructed using materials readily available locally. Stone and cob were widely used for houses and farm buildings, while central Somerset properties typically feature lias construction. Stawell was historically known for its distinctive white lias, a limestone variety that characterises many local buildings and requires specific assessment expertise. We understand how this material performs over time and what signs of deterioration to look for.

Roof construction in the area traditionally used thatch, clay tiles, or stone tiles. Bridgwater became a significant source of clay tiles from the late 18th century onwards, and many properties in the Stawell area feature these traditional tiles. Our surveyors understand how to assess the condition of these historic roofing materials, identify signs of weathering or damage, and determine whether repairs or replacement will be necessary. We have inspected many properties with original clay tile roofs and know how to distinguish between normal wear and more serious structural issues.

The presence of clay in Stawell's geology means our surveyors pay particular attention to foundations and drainage. Properties with trees nearby, or those on ground with high clay content, may experience movement as trees draw moisture from the soil or as the clay expands and contracts with seasonal weather changes. Our Level 3 survey specifically examines these potential issues and provides clear guidance on any remedial work required. We have seen properties where foundation movement has occurred due to clay shrinkage, and we know what signs to look for.

We also assess the impact of modern development on older properties. Many homes in Stawell have been extended or modernised over the years, sometimes with varying degrees of quality. Our surveyors examine these additions to ensure they were constructed properly and do not compromise the integrity of the original building. We have found issues with poorly designed extensions in several properties, and our detailed reports highlight these concerns.