RICS Level 2 Survey in BB10 1 Burnley

Our RICS Level 2 Survey, also known as a Home Survey, provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's condition focusing on issues that are visible and accessible. The survey includes a thorough examination of the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and permanent fixtures. We check for signs of dampness, structural movement, rot, and timber defects that are common in the older properties throughout the BB10 1 area.

In Burnley and the surrounding BB10 1 sector, many properties were constructed using traditional brickwork with slate or tile roofs, dating back to the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Our inspectors are experienced in identifying issues specific to these construction types, including deteriorating mortar pointing, damaged roof tiles, and the early signs of structural movement that can affect terraced properties.

The survey also includes assessment of services such as plumbing, electrical installations, and drainage where visible. We examine the condition of extensions, conservatories, and any outbuildings, providing you with a clear picture of the property's overall condition and what immediate or future repairs might be required.

Each survey follows the RICS Home Survey format, which uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Green indicates no repair is currently needed, amber highlights defects that require attention but are not immediately urgent, and red flags issues that are serious and require urgent attention. This straightforward approach helps you prioritises repair work and budget accordingly.

• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Drainage and outside areas

The BB10 1 area features a diverse mix of property types and ages, reflecting Burnley's development from a thriving industrial town. Terraced properties dominate the housing stock in this sector, with many dating from the late Victorian and Edwardian periods when the local cotton industry was at its peak. These properties were typically built using traditional solid wall construction with load-bearing brickwork, which while generally sound, can present specific challenges related to damp penetration and thermal efficiency.

Semi-detached houses became more common in BB10 1 during the early to mid-20th century, often constructed with cavity walls though some earlier properties may have solid wall construction. Flat roofs on extensions and outbuildings are frequently encountered in this area, and our surveyors pay particular attention to their condition as these are common sources of water ingress. The combination of older original features and various periods of modification and extension creates a complex picture that requires experienced assessment.

Many properties in BB10 1 will have been subject to various degrees of modernisation over the decades, with some having had new windows, updated heating systems, or loft conversions. While these improvements can enhance a property's value and comfort, they also require careful inspection to ensure work was carried out to appropriate standards and with necessary building regulations approval. Our surveyors note any alterations and assess whether they appear to have been properly executed.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout BB10 1 and the broader Burnley area, we regularly identify several common issues that buyers should be aware of. Dampness is one of the most frequently encountered problems, particularly rising damp in ground floor properties and penetrating damp in properties with aging roof coverings or damaged pointing. The traditional brick construction common in this area, while generally sound, can be susceptible to damp penetration if maintenance has been neglected. Our surveyors use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to assess the extent and cause of any dampness detected.

Roof condition is another area of concern in many BB10 1 properties. Missing or slipped tiles, deteriorated flat roof coverings, and damaged flashing around chimneys are regularly identified during our surveys. These issues can lead to water ingress and subsequent damage to internal finishes and structural timbers if not addressed promptly. Our inspectors pay particular attention to roof voids where accessible, checking for signs of timber decay, pest activity, and inadequate ventilation that could compromise the structural integrity of the roof structure.

Structural movement, typically manifesting as cracks in walls or uneven floors, is found in a significant number of properties in this area. While many cases represent minor settlement that has occurred over many years, our surveyors are trained to identify the signs that might indicate more serious underlying issues requiring further investigation. We examine crack patterns, measuring their width and monitoring for signs of ongoing movement that could suggest subsidence or structural instability.

We also commonly find outdated electrical installations and plumbing that may not meet current safety standards, particularly in properties that have not been updated for several decades. Consumer unit (fuseboard) condition, earthing arrangements, and the presence of old rubber or fabric-covered cabling are all noted during our inspection. These electrical concerns are particularly important given the age of much of the housing stock in BB10 1, where original installations may have been patchwork over the years rather than comprehensively upgraded.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and deterioration
• Structural cracks and movement
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Outdated electrical installations
• Poor drainage and guttering