RICS Level 2 Survey in Burton

Our Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying any visible defects, potential problems, and urgent issues that require attention. The survey includes a detailed assessment of the roof, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and floors, as well as the property's plumbing, electrical systems, and heating. Our inspectors look for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and other defects that could impact the property's value or require costly repairs. In Burton, where many properties date from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, our surveyors are particularly experienced in identifying common issues found in older housing stock, such as outdated electrics, deteriorating roofs, and damp penetration in solid wall constructions that lack modern cavity insulation.

The survey also includes an assessment of environmental risks specific to the Burton area. Given the town's location on the River Trent, we check for signs of past flooding and provide guidance on flood risk for properties in vulnerable areas. Our inspectors also note the potential for subsidence or heave, particularly in areas with clay soils derived from the Mercia Mudstone geology found in Staffordshire. This shrink-swell behaviour in clay ground can cause significant structural movement, especially where trees are present or drainage is inadequate. Properties in Burton's conservation areas, which feature historic buildings around the former Abbey and town centre, receive careful inspection for any alterations or structural changes that may affect their integrity. The resulting report includes clear ratings for each element of the property, from condition to urgent repairs needed.

We inspect the electrical installation visually and test a sample of sockets and switches, noting any obvious deficiencies or non-compliance with current regulations. Our surveyors check the consumer unit (fuseboard), the presence of earthing and bonding, and the condition of wiring where accessible. For properties with older electrical systems, particularly those with rubber or fabric-covered cabling dating from before the 1960s, we recommend a specialist electrical inspection by a registered electrician. We also assess the plumbing system, checking the condition of pipes, tanks, and cylinders, and identifying any signs of leakage or corrosion that could lead to problems.

The survey includes a thorough examination of the roof space where accessible, looking at the structure, insulation, and condition of roof coverings. Many properties in Burton have traditional pitched roofs with slate or tile coverings that may be original to the building. We note the condition of verges, ridges, and flashings, and check gutters and downpipes for damage or blockage that could cause water penetration. Our inspectors also examine chimneys, which are a common source of problems in period properties, checking for damaged flues, loose brickwork, or missing chimney pots.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and moisture detection
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical wiring and safety
• Heating and ventilation
• Floors and stairs
• External finishes
• Signs of subsidence or movement

Burton upon Trent's location on the River Trent means that flood risk is an important consideration for property buyers in certain areas. Properties close to the river or in low-lying parts of the town may be at risk from fluvial flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Our surveyors check for signs of previous flooding, including water marks on walls and fixtures, and look at the property's position relative to the flood plain. We include a dedicated section in our report on flood risk, advising you on any necessary steps such as checking the Environment Agency flood maps or obtaining a specific flood risk assessment.

Surface water flooding can also be a concern in urban areas of Burton, particularly where drainage systems may be overwhelmed during exceptional rainfall events. Our inspection includes an assessment of the property's drainage, including gutters, downpipes, and any visible drainage infrastructure. We note any evidence of water pooling or poor drainage that could lead to problems. For properties in areas identified as having higher flood risk, we recommend that you obtain a detailed flood risk assessment and consider whether buildings insurance would cover flood damage.

Our experience surveying properties throughout Burton reveals several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of before purchasing. Damp problems are particularly common in older terraced properties, especially those with solid wall construction that lacks cavity insulation. The clay-based soils in parts of Staffordshire can also contribute to moisture-related issues, particularly in properties with compromised drainage or inadequate ventilation. Our inspectors use professional moisture meters and thermal imaging equipment to identify damp that may not be visible to the untrained eye, providing you with a realistic assessment of any remediation work that may be needed. Rising damp is frequently found in older properties where the original damp proof course has failed or was never installed, and penetrating damp often affects walls exposed to prevailing winds.

Roof conditions are another frequent finding in Burton surveys, with older properties often requiring repair or replacement of roofing materials. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in the area feature original slate or tile roofs that may be approaching the end of their lifespan. Our surveyors inspect roof coverings, flashings, gutters, and chimneys, noting any missing tiles, signs of leakage, or deterioration. Flat roofs, where present, are particularly prone to problems and often require ongoing maintenance or replacement. We also check the condition of roof space insulation, which is frequently inadequate in older properties.

Electrical systems in properties built before modern standards are also commonly flagged, with older fuse boards and wiring requiring updating to meet current regulations. We see many properties with old consumer units that lack modern safety features like RCBOs, and wiring that would not pass current Part P electrical regulations. We recommend a specialist electrical inspection (EICR) for any property with older electrical installations. Similarly, plumbing systems in period properties often feature old galvanized steel pipes that are prone to internal corrosion and restricted water flow, with many original systems now requiring partial or complete replacement.

Subsidence and heave are potential concerns in Burton due to the Mercia Mudstone clay geology underlying much of the area. Properties built on clay soils can experience movement as the ground shrinks during dry periods and swells when wet. This is particularly problematic where trees are planted near properties, as tree roots can draw moisture from the soil and cause additional ground movement. Our surveyors look for signs of structural movement, including cracking to walls, sticking doors and windows, and uneven floors, noting any concerns in our report.