RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Chard TA20 3

The RICS Level 3 Building Survey, formerly known as a Full Structural Survey, provides an exhaustive assessment of a property's condition. Unlike less comprehensive inspections, this survey examines all accessible areas of the building, from the roof space and foundations to the internal fixtures and fittings. Our inspectors assess the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, while also evaluating the property's overall structural integrity. We move systematically through each section of the property, documenting our findings with photographs and providing clear explanations of any issues discovered.

For properties in TA20 3, this thorough approach is particularly valuable given the diverse housing stock in the area. From older properties constructed with traditional solid walls using local Hamstone or flint, to newer cavity-wall constructions at developments like Oaklands and Tatworth Road, our surveyors have the expertise to identify issues specific to each construction type. The report includes detailed findings on any defects identified, their likely cause, and recommended remedial actions. We understand that Hamstone buildings, while characterful, can suffer from weathering and pointing issues that require ongoing maintenance.

Additionally, the Level 3 Survey assesses environmental factors that could affect the property. In Chard, this includes evaluating flood risk from the River Isle and its tributaries, as well as the potential impact of clay shrink-swell behaviour in the local geology. Our inspectors will also check for any signs of previous flood damage or structural movement that might be related to ground conditions. Surface water flooding has been a documented issue in Chard, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when drainage systems become overwhelmed.

The survey also includes assessment of any outbuildings, garages, and the general condition of the plot. For properties with large gardens or those in rural parts of TA20 3, this additional context can be valuable in understanding the full scope of maintenance responsibilities. Our detailed report gives you a complete picture of the property's condition, not just the main dwelling.

• Comprehensive structural inspection
• Detailed defect analysis
• Flood risk assessment
• Building materials evaluation
• Structural movement investigation
• Recommendation of remedial works
• Outbuilding assessment
• Maintenance guidance

Properties in TA20 3 present a range of common defects that our Level 3 Survey specifically targets. Given the mix of older and newer properties in the area, our inspectors frequently encounter damp issues, including rising damp in solid-walled period properties, penetrating damp caused by weathering of traditional Hamstone or flint construction, and condensation problems in newer properties with modern ventilation systems. These damp issues can lead to timber decay, rot, and woodworm infestation if left untreated, making early identification crucial for prospective buyers.

Timber defects are another common finding in Chard properties, particularly in older homes where original timber joists, rafters, and floorboards may have been in place for over a century. Our inspectors check thoroughly for signs of woodworm activity, wet rot, and dry rot that can compromise the structural integrity of timber elements. In properties withoriginal timber-framed construction, we pay particular attention to the condition of load-bearing elements and any signs of movement or distortion that might indicate structural concerns.

Roof issues frequently appear in our survey reports for the Chard area. Properties with slate or clay tile roofs, common throughout TA20 3, often show signs of slipped tiles, defective flashing around chimneys and valleys, and deterioration of mortar pointing. For properties at The Willows or other relatively new developments, we may identify defects arising from building defects rather than age-related wear. Our surveyors will inspect the roof space internally and externally where safely accessible, documenting any issues that could lead to water ingress or structural concerns.

Properties constructed with local stone materials, including the distinctive Hamstone found throughout Chard, present specific maintenance challenges that our surveyors understand well. The pointing between stone blocks can deteriorate over time, allowing water penetration and subsequent internal damp issues. We assess the condition of both the stonework and the mortar joints, providing specific recommendations for repair works that may be required to prevent further deterioration.

Properties in TA20 3 face several unique challenges that our Level 3 Survey specifically addresses. The local geology, predominantly comprising Gault Formation clay and Upper Greensand, creates a potential shrink-swell risk that can affect foundations. During periods of extreme weather, either prolonged drought or heavy rainfall, clay soils expand and contract, potentially causing structural movement. Our inspectors are trained to identify signs of this type of foundation movement, including cracking patterns and door/window operation issues. The superficial deposits found in parts of the area, including Head deposits and Alluvium along watercourses, can further complicate foundation conditions.

Flood risk is another significant consideration for properties in parts of TA20 3. The River Isle and its tributaries flow through the Chard area, creating fluvial flood risk in lower-lying areas. Additionally, surface water flooding has been a documented issue in Chard, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when drainage systems become overwhelmed. The town has experienced surface water flooding events where combined sewers have been unable to cope with heavy rainfall, affecting properties in various locations throughout the area. A Level 3 Survey will assess any evidence of previous flood damage, water staining, or damp issues that might indicate a property's flood history.

The presence of the Chard Conservation Area and numerous listed buildings throughout the area means that many properties in TA20 3 are subject to specific planning constraints. Our surveyors understand these considerations and will note any alterations or extensions that may require formal consent. For properties within or adjacent to the Conservation Area, or those listed buildings, we provide additional guidance on the implications of any defects found. Properties in the Conservation Area may require specialist repair techniques to maintain their historic character, and our reports highlight where this may affect remediation costs.

New build properties in TA20 3, including those at Oaklands by Barratt Homes, Tatworth Road by Persimmon Homes, and The Willows by Summerfield Developments, also benefit from our detailed inspection. While these properties are newer, our surveyors can identify any construction defects, snagging issues, or problems arising from the building process. For buyers investing in new-build homes, which in this price range represent significant expenditure, a Level 3 Survey provides valuable assurance that the property has been constructed to appropriate standards.

Your RICS Level 3 Survey report is designed to give you a complete understanding of the property's condition. The report begins with a clear summary of the property's overall condition and any significant issues that require attention. This summary is followed by detailed sections covering each element of the property, from the foundations and substructure through to the roof and external areas. Each section includes our assessment of condition, any defects found, and recommendations for remedial action where necessary.

The report uses a consistent traffic-light rating system to indicate the urgency of any issues identified. Red-rated items require urgent attention, typically within the next 12 months, while amber items may require attention within the next 1-5 years. Green ratings indicate that no immediate action is required, though ongoing maintenance may be recommended. This clear system helps you prioritise any remedial works and understand the potential costs involved in maintaining the property.

For properties in TA20 3, we provide specific context within our reports about local issues. If we identify potential clay shrink-swell movement, we will explain how this relates to the local geology and provide guidance on monitoring. If we find evidence of damp or previous flooding, we will explain the potential causes and recommended remediation. This local context helps you understand not just what issues exist, but why they have occurred and what they mean for your ongoing ownership of the property.