RICS Level 3 Building Survey in TA20

The TA20 postcode encompasses not only Chard but also surrounding villages including Combe St Nicholas, Wambrook, Yarcombe, and Crewkerne. This varied landscape means properties here range from new-build brick and block constructions with concrete roof tiles to historic timber-framed buildings dating back to the 17th century. A RICS Level 3 Survey is specifically designed to handle this diversity, providing detailed assessments tailored to each construction type and age of property.

Properties in this area such as the Grade II Listed stable conversions found in Yarcombe represent centuries of traditional building craft but also come with specific risks. Timber framing, wattle infill, stone plinths, and slate roofs require expert knowledge to assess properly. Our inspectors understand the specific defects that affect these traditional structures, including timber decay, damp penetration through historic fabric, and the condition of original structural elements. We have experience identifying issues that might be missed by less experienced surveyors unfamiliar with traditional Somerset construction methods.

The Level 3 Survey proves particularly valuable for the substantial number of detached properties in TA20, which dominate the local market and command the highest prices averaging over £415,000. These larger homes often contain complex roof structures, multiple chimneys, and extended plumbing systems that warrant thorough investigation before purchase. Our surveyors examine every accessible element, from loft spaces to sub-floor areas, ensuring you have a complete picture of the property's condition.

The local housing market has shown resilience despite being 7% down from the 2023 peak of approximately £320,000. With prices now rising again, securing a professional survey before committing to purchase is more important than ever. A detailed Level 3 Survey can reveal issues that may justify price negotiations or highlight urgent repairs needed.

• Older properties built before 1900
• Detached homes over 2,500 sq ft
• Properties with visible structural concerns
• Any listed building or period property

Understanding what your property is made of helps explain its typical defect patterns. In TA20, modern terraced properties in areas like Combe Street typically feature brick and block construction with concrete roof tiles, representing standard building practice from the latter half of the 20th century. These properties generally perform well but can suffer from issues common to their era, including potential problems with concrete tile degradation and cavity wall insulation failures. Our inspectors know to check for these specific issues during every inspection.

However, the area also contains numerous older properties requiring more specialized assessment. The historic buildings found throughout Chard and the surrounding villages often feature traditional timber-framed construction. One example documented locally includes C17 box frame structures with wattle infill, now typically weather-boarded, sitting on stone plinths with steeply pitched slate roofs. Later C18 and C19 additions with light framing and weather-boarding also appear throughout the area. These buildings represent hundreds of years of local building tradition but require expert assessment.

These older construction methods bring specific assessment requirements. Timber-framed buildings can experience movement as structures settle over centuries, while wattle and daub or wattle infill panels may deteriorate. Stone plinths can suffer from frost damage and salt erosion, particularly in exposed locations. Our Level 3 Survey specifically examines these elements, understanding how age and traditional methods affect structural integrity. We document any signs of previous movement, repair work, or deterioration that could impact the building's future performance.

The area also includes properties converted from agricultural buildings, which present unique structural considerations. These former barns and farmhouses often have non-standard layouts, original features that may have been altered, and foundations designed for different loading conditions than residential use. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these converted properties and identifying issues that might not be apparent to those unfamiliar with agricultural-to-residential conversions.

• Brick and block cavity wall construction
• Traditional timber framing
• Stone plinths and foundations
• Concrete and slate roofing
• Converted agricultural buildings

One positive aspect of the TA20 area is its very low flood risk from all sources. According to government flood risk assessments, the yearly chance of flooding from surface water, rivers, and sea is very low for properties in this postcode area. TA20 falls outside groundwater flood alert areas, and flooding from reservoirs is considered unlikely. This makes the area relatively unusual in Somerset, where many locations face significant flood challenges.

However, even with low overall risk, our surveyors will still check for evidence of any historical flooding or water damage that might not be apparent from desktop assessments. We examine external ground levels, drainage patterns, and the condition of any basement or cellar spaces. Sometimes properties in apparently low-risk areas may have experienced flooding from unusual events or have drainage issues that could cause problems in the future.

While specific geological data for TA20 remains limited, the presence of varied soil types throughout Somerset means our inspectors pay particular attention to signs of clay shrink-swell movement, particularly around older properties with shallow foundations. Properties in areas with established trees may also show signs of root intrusion or soil movement that requires documentation. Our surveyors are trained to identify the subtle signs of foundation movement that could indicate ongoing structural issues.

The proximity to the Dorset Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis (similar distance to the south as Taunton is to the north) means some TA20 properties may have been affected by materials or methods used in properties near the coast. Salt-laden air can affect external joinery and metalwork, and our inspectors know to assess these elements carefully, particularly on properties within the older housing stock.

While any property can benefit from a Level 3 Survey, certain properties in the TA20 area particularly warrant this more comprehensive assessment. Detached properties, which represent the majority of sales in this postcode area and command prices averaging over £415,000, contain more complex structural elements that benefit from thorough examination. The larger footprint, multiple roof planes, and extended foundation systems all require detailed inspection. Many of these larger homes have been extended over the years, and our surveyors can identify where additions meet the original structure and assess any potential issues at these junction points.

Properties showing visible signs of structural movement or deterioration should definitely receive a Level 3 Survey. This includes houses with visible cracks in external walls, doors or windows that stick or don't close properly, uneven floors, or previous repairs that may not meet current standards. Our surveyors can assess whether these issues represent ongoing problems or historical movement that has stabilized. In older properties, some degree of movement is normal, but our experts can determine whether remedial work is required or whether the movement is simply evidence of the building settling over many decades.

Unusual or non-standard construction also calls for detailed assessment. While most TA20 properties use conventional brick or stone construction, some buildings may incorporate alternative materials or methods that require expert evaluation. Properties that have been significantly modified, extended, or converted from other uses such as agricultural buildings also warrant the more thorough Level 3 approach. The local area has seen several barn conversions in recent years, and these require particular attention to ensure the conversion was carried out properly and the building is suitable for residential use.

With the local economy supported by employers like the Agincare Group (which operates care homes in the region including a location in Crimchard, Chard) and established firms like Greenslade Taylor Hunt, the area maintains steady demand for housing. This economic stability makes professional survey advice even more valuable, as properties in TA20 represent solid investments that deserve thorough due diligence before purchase.

• Detached properties over £400,000
• Properties showing visible cracks or movement
• Buildings with unusual construction
• Converted barns or period properties

The TA20 area benefits from its position in South Somerset, offering good transport links while maintaining a semi-rural character. Chard itself provides essential amenities including supermarkets, banks, and educational facilities. The proximity to Taunton, approximately 14 miles north, offers access to the M5 motorway and intercity rail services to London Paddington, making the area attractive for commuters. This combination of rural charm and transport connectivity has helped maintain property values despite broader market fluctuations.

Local employers in the TA20 area include the Agincare Group, which operates care homes in the region, and Greenslade Taylor Hunt, a long-established firm of chartered surveyors and property specialists based in Chard. Derbyshire's Estate Agents also has an office in Chard, focusing on village and rural properties across Somerset, Dorset, and Devon. The presence of such businesses supports the local housing market and contributes to the area's economic stability. These employers provide diverse employment opportunities that attract buyers to the area.

Property values in TA20 have shown resilience, with prices 3% up on the previous year despite being 7% down from the 2023 peak of approximately £320,000. This suggests the market continues to function actively, making professional survey advice before purchase even more valuable for buyers looking to secure properties at fair prices. The diverse housing stock, ranging from affordable terraced properties at around £196,000 to substantial detached homes exceeding £415,000, means there are options for various buyer budgets and requirements.

The area's character as a thriving market town with good local services makes it popular with families, retirees, and commuters alike. Chard offers a range of educational facilities from primary schools to secondary education, along with leisure facilities and shopping options. This local amenity base, combined with the beautiful surrounding Somerset countryside and easy access to the Dorset coast at Lyme Regis, makes TA20 an attractive location for a wide range of purchasers. The town centre includes major supermarkets and smaller independent retailers, providing convenient daily shopping without the need to travel to larger urban centres.