From charming cottages to coastal retreats, Cornish homes are full of character, but they can also hide problems. Some of the most common issues found as part of our Level 2 Home Survey and Level 3 Home Surveys are:

Damp & Mould

Damp and mould can be experienced in all property types and ages; however, it is most common in older properties and properties containing stone or cob walls.

Mundic

It is important to establish if the property you are purchasing may require a mundic test or whether further investigation is required to confirm the date and/or construction of the property to establish whether a mundic test may be needed. Mundic is an important issue to consider when purchasing a property in Cornwall and some parts of Devon, as properties containing concrete elements such as concrete blockwork, if built within a certain time period, may require a mundic test (also known as concrete screening) and an adverse mundic test result can affect whether a property is mortgageable.

Not only is mundic an important factor to consider in whether the property is mortgageable, mundic can affect the structural integrity of a property.

Roof Defects

It is quite common for unknown roof defects to be found as part of a Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey. These can relate to a number of issues including roof leaks, issues with the roof structure, issues with poor waterproofing details, incorrect fixings used on roofs, slipped or missing tiles or the roof coverings requiring full replacement.

Subsidence & Settlement

Subsidence and settlement can again affect any property; however, it is particularly important to be mindful of this where properties are built within a historic mining area (such as in Cornwall which is rich in historic metalliferous mining) or close to cliffs, coastal, or other areas that are particularly at risk of subsidence.

Coastal Weathering

Being in Cornwall, it is common for properties, particularly those located close to the coast, to be exposed to salt, wind and adverse weather conditions. Salt and wind exposure can cause faster deterioration and weathering to a property and therefore it is particularly important to ensure properties are well maintained using the correct methods and materials.

Are you buying a property in Cornwall? Book your Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey with our local RICS registered expert surveyors. Call our office on 01872 277230 or email info@cockrams-surveyors.co.uk for a free quotation and no-obligation discussion with a member of our team.