Our Somerset surveyors have been busy in and around Somerset, particularly Mendip, over the past few months. They’ve carried out building surveys in Wells, Frome, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet and Street, and plenty of hamlets and villages in between!
One of the highlights was this substantial Grade II listed farmhouse survey in Bodden, near Shepton Mallet. It was originally built in the 1700s and then altered in the 19th century, and it still retains original features such as sash windows, stonework and an original door. It was a fascinating property to inspect in a beautiful rural setting.
Our next Shepton Mallet survey was another 19th-century property, but this was quite different. This was a mid-terrace house located in a more urban area alongside a mix of residential and commercial properties. It had a painted render finish and a small courtyard. As with any rendered property, careful maintenance will help prolong its life and prevent moisture ingress. Cracks need to be repaired as they occur to stop water entering; similarly, the growth of any plants that can damage the render should be controlled.
Another town centre property survey, this time in Street, was intriguing because of its build type. This bungalow was a non-standard construction, and was built using a steel frame. Houses made to this design are known as “Trusteel MK2” type houses. While this type of house is not designated as “defective” under the Housing Act 1984, it should be noted that not all mortgage providers are prepared to advance funds against the purchase of properties of this type.
This grand property was situated in the heart of Wells City, near the famous Cathedral. This Wells survey was a Level 3 inspection of one of the flats within the main Georgian building. This was another Grade II listed property, with early 19th century features including railings, sash windows and Dutch curve coped gables.
19th-century home surveys definitely keep us busy in the Mendip area, as this Glastonbury property illustrates. Although not listed, it is in a conservation area. This means that planning consent is likely to be required for significant works to, or the demolition of, any part of the building. This consent is addressed through applications for Planning Consent.
