RICS Level 2 Survey in Cheswick Green

Cheswick Green underwent significant redevelopment in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with the Greaves Organisation constructing approximately 550 homes as part of what was marketed as "the Village of the Seventies." While this created a cohesive housing estate, properties from this era come with specific maintenance considerations that our surveyors understand intimately. The construction methods of this period, typically brick-built with tiled roofs, have proven durable but require careful inspection for age-related issues including deteriorating damp-proof courses, original roofing materials reaching the end of their lifespan, and potential structural movement in clay soils.

Many properties in Cheswick Green are now over 50 years old, placing them squarely in the category where a RICS Level 2 Survey provides the most value. Our inspectors check for common defects in properties of this age, including failing damp-proof courses that can lead to rising damp, aging roof coverings with slipped or deteriorating tiles, original electrical installations that may not meet current regulations, and potential issues with asbestos-containing materials used in construction before 2000. The Solihull area features slowly permeable clayey soils with impeded drainage, which creates particular risks for foundations when trees are present nearby.

The village also has 11 listed buildings, which require specialist attention during any property transaction. If you're considering a listed property, our surveyors can identify specific concerns related to protected status and recommend whether a more detailed RICS Level 3 Survey might be appropriate. For standard properties, however, the Level 2 survey provides comprehensive coverage of the issues that matter most to Cheswick Green buyers, particularly those in the popular B90 postcode area.

For buyers looking at newer properties, including those at the Bloor Homes Cheswick Place development on Tanworth Lane or the upcoming Richborough development, our survey checks construction quality, building regulation compliance, and any snagging issues that require attention from the developer. Even new properties can have defects, and our detailed inspection ensures you receive your survey before completing on what may be your largest financial commitment.

• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof condition and tile deterioration
• Outdated electrical systems
• Window and door alignment
• Foundation movement indicators
• Asbestos-containing materials
• Drainage and guttering defects
• Timber decay in roofs and windows

Cheswick Green sits within a flood warning area for the River Blythe, which flows along the eastern edge of the village. Areas including Coppice Walk, Cheswick Way, and Watery Lane have specific flood risks that our surveyors can identify and assess. Recent monitoring data from the River Blythe at Cheswick Green has shown water levels reaching "Above normal range - flooding possible," making flood risk assessment an important part of your property evaluation. Our surveyor will note visible signs of previous flooding, drainage issues, and recommend further investigations if the property is in a flood zone.

The local geology presents another important consideration for property buyers. The Solihull area features slowly permeable clayey soils with impeded drainage, derived from Triassic Mudstone, Siltstone and Sandstone. This creates shrink-swell risks for foundations, particularly relevant for properties with large trees nearby where root systems can interact with clay soils to cause movement. Our surveyors note any signs of subsidence, cracking, or movement that might indicate foundation issues requiring further investigation, and we can recommend a structural engineer if significant concerns are identified.

For properties in newer developments, such as those built by Bloor Homes at Cheswick Place, the Richborough development off Tanworth Lane, or properties in nearby Shirley like the Wain Homes "The Green" development, our survey focuses on construction quality, building regulation compliance, and any issues arising from relatively recent build. We also check that any NHBC warranty or other builder guarantees remain valid and identify any snagging issues that require attention from the developer before your defects period expires.

The area has seen substantial new build activity, with planning permissions for developments including around 150 new homes at the Richborough site off Tanworth Lane. buying a brand new property or an established home, our survey provides the assurance you need before committing to your purchase in this growing village.

Our Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of your Cheswick Green property. Our surveyor will examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and permanently fitted fixtures and fittings. We check the condition of services such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems, providing observations on their current state and any obvious defects. The inspection covers both the interior and exterior of the property, including any outbuildings and the boundaries where safely accessible.

The survey includes a thorough assessment of both interior and exterior elements. Externally, we examine the roof covering, chimneys, fascias and soffits, walls, windows, doors, damp-proof courses, and drainage systems. We assess the condition of brickwork and pointing, check for signs of movement or subsidence, and inspect rainwater goods for blockages or leaks. Internally, we inspect ceilings, walls, floors, stairs, and the condition of joinery. We also examine built-in appliances where safely accessible, testing them where possible to ensure they function correctly.

Upon completion of your survey, you receive a detailed report written in clear, straightforward language. The report uses a traffic light rating system to indicate the severity of any issues found, with red ratings highlighting serious defects requiring urgent attention, amber ratings for issues requiring future repair, and green ratings for satisfactory conditions. Each section of the property receives its own condition rating, allowing you to see exactly where issues exist and their potential severity. This clear presentation helps you prioritise repair work and negotiate appropriately with sellers based on the survey findings.

Our report includes practical recommendations for addressing any defects identified, from immediate repairs to planned maintenance. We can advise on whether issues require specialist attention from structural engineers, damp specialists, or electrical contractors, and we provide estimated cost guidance where appropriate. This helps you budget for any works required and gives you leverage when negotiating with the seller.

The property market in Cheswick Green has shown resilience, with recent data indicating prices around the £372,000 mark for average properties. However, with prices 3-4% down from the 2023 peak of £388,775, there may be opportunities for buyers to negotiate on properties that have been on the market for longer. A thorough survey gives you the leverage to request price reductions or repairs based on identified defects, ensuring you're not paying premium prices for properties with hidden issues.

buying a family home near the highly regarded local schools, a property for commuting to Birmingham or Solihull town centre, or an investment property in this sought-after village, our RICS Level 2 Survey provides essential protection. The village continues to grow with new developments like the Richborough site bringing around 150 new homes to the area, but even established properties require careful inspection. The investment in a survey is minimal compared to the potential cost of discovering major defects after you've completed on your purchase.

Our team understands the local market dynamics and the specific property types found throughout Cheswick Green. From the original Greaves Organisation homes built in the 1970s to modern developments, we have the expertise to identify issues that matter to local buyers. With the village's proximity to the River Blythe and the local clay soil conditions, our survey addresses area-specific risks that generic surveys might miss. Book your survey today and move forward with confidence in your Cheswick Green property purchase.