RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Whitestone

The village of Whitestone contains a notable concentration of older properties, with numerous farmhouses and historic buildings reflecting the area's agricultural heritage. The presence of the Grade I listed Church of St Catherine of Alexandria and several Grade II and Grade II* listed buildings throughout the parish indicates the age and character of the local housing stock. These older properties, while full of character, can harbour hidden defects that only a detailed structural survey can uncover. Issues such as timber decay, damp penetration, roof deterioration, and structural movement are common in period properties, and identifying these early can save you significant expense down the line.

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey goes beyond the basic visual inspection, providing you with a thorough examination of the property's construction and condition. The survey includes a detailed assessment of all major structural elements, including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and foundations. We also inspect the property's services, such as plumbing and electrical installations, where accessible. For properties in Whitestone's rural setting, we pay particular attention to agricultural-style buildings and conversions, which may have non-standard construction elements that require specialist assessment.

The Level 3 survey is particularly recommended for older properties, those showing signs of damage or deterioration, buildings with non-standard construction, and Listed Buildings. Given the number of historic properties in the Whitestone area, many purchasers will benefit from the detailed assessment that only a Level 3 survey provides. The report includes clear ratings for each defect found, from urgent issues requiring immediate attention to recommendations for future maintenance, allowing you to plan and budget accordingly.

With 90+ properties sold in the area over the past year and an 11% annual price increase, the Whitestone market remains active. Our surveyors regularly inspect properties in this area and understand the specific challenges that come with rural Devon properties - from historic farmhouses to modern homes near the Exeter border. We provide the detailed technical information you need to confidently proceed with your purchase or negotiate a fair price if significant issues are identified.

• Properties over 70 years old
• Listed buildings and historic homes
• Properties with visible defects
• Non-standard construction buildings
• Properties planned for major renovation
• Large or complex properties

Properties in Whitestone reflect the agricultural heritage of the area, with many farmhouses and cottages constructed using traditional Devon building methods. Local materials typically include stone, cob (earth construction), and slate or thatch for roofing. These materials, while durable when properly maintained, can develop specific issues over time that require expert identification. Stone walls may suffer from mortar deterioration, cob walls can experience erosion, and older roofs may have slipped slates or damaged thatch. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these traditional construction methods and identifying the specific defects that affect them.

The rural setting of Whitestone also means some properties have outbuildings, barns, or agricultural structures that may form part of the purchase. Our Level 3 survey can include these auxiliary buildings where agreed, providing you with a complete picture of the property's condition. Many older properties in the area have also been converted or extended over the years, and our surveyors are experienced in assessing the quality of such modifications and identifying any structural implications. We pay particular attention to the junction between old and new work, where movement and water penetration most commonly occur.

Devon has experienced significant weather events in recent years, including flooding in various locations. While Whitestone is generally considered to have a low risk of river flooding, surface water and drainage issues can affect properties in valley locations. Our surveyors inspect for signs of previous water damage, inadequate drainage, and potential moisture-related problems that are particularly relevant to properties in the Devon countryside. We also assess the effectiveness of soakaway systems and the condition of drainage infrastructure, which is crucial for properties in areas with heavy clay soils.

The underlying geology in this part of Devon can present specific challenges for property owners. Clay soils are common in the region and can cause subsidence or heave issues, particularly where trees are located close to buildings or where drainage is inadequate. Our surveyors inspect for signs of structural movement, crack patterns, and other indicators that may suggest ground instability. We also note the proximity of the property to known radon affected areas in Devon, as this is an important consideration for property condition and potential mitigation requirements.

• Traditional stone and cob construction
• Slate and thatch roofing
• Agricultural outbuildings
• Period features and fabric
• Drainage and soakaway systems
• Historical modifications and conversions