RICS Level 2 Survey in DE13 7 Alrewas

Our chartered surveyors inspect every accessible area of the property, starting from the roof down to the foundations. In DE13 7 properties, we pay particular attention to the common issues found in the local housing stock. The area's geology, primarily Mercia Mudstone Group, means we carefully examine foundations and ground conditions for signs of shrink-swell movement, which can cause subsidence or heave in properties built on clay soils. This is particularly important for properties in areas like DE13 7DR and DE13 7BP, where significant price variations reflect the diverse nature of the local housing stock.

We assess the condition of roof coverings, gutters, and flashings, as tile roofs are prevalent throughout Alrewas and Kings Bromley. Our inspectors check for missing or damaged tiles, signs of past leaks, and the condition of mortar pointing. Given the age of many properties in the area, with significant pre-1919 housing stock in the village cores, we also examine walls for signs of damp penetration and structural movement that may have occurred over decades. Properties in the conservation area often have traditional solid brick walls without cavity insulation, making them more susceptible to damp issues if the original damp-proof course has failed.

The survey includes a visual inspection of electrical consumer units, wiring age, and plug socket conditions where visible. We cannot test every circuit, but we flag obvious concerns that would require a qualified electrician's further investigation. Similarly, plumbing is visually assessed for corrosion, leaks, and the condition of visible pipework, particularly in older properties that may still have original lead or galvanised steel pipes. Many homes in the DE13 7 area were built during different periods of development, from Victorian through to modern constructions, and each era brings its own typical defects that our surveyors know to look for.

Our inspection covers the exterior of the property, including walls, pointing, render condition, and any signs of movement or cracking. We examine windows and doors for condition and operation, check damp-proof courses, and inspect any outbuildings or extensions. The Level 2 survey also includes a basic assessment of any garages or attached structures, ensuring you have a complete picture of the property's overall condition.

• Roof structure and covering condition
• Walls, dampness and structural movement
• Foundations and signs of subsidence
• Electrical and plumbing visible defects
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Gutters, drains and external pipes

Properties in DE13 7 are predominantly constructed with red brick, reflecting the traditional building practices of Staffordshire and the East Midlands. Roofs are typically covered with clay or concrete tiles, with some older properties featuring natural slate. The combination of brick walls and tile roofs is characteristic of the area's Victorian and Edwardian housing stock, particularly in the conservation areas of Alrewas. Many properties along the main village streets date from this period and retain their original character, though this also means they may have aging components that require careful assessment.

Many older properties in the village centre have solid brick walls without cavity insulation, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration if the original damp-proof course has failed or been bridged. Our inspectors specifically look for the presence and condition of damp-proof courses and any signs of rising damp, which is one of the most common defects we find in properties of this age. We also check for bridging of damp-proof courses by external ground levels or internal plasterwork, which can allow moisture to travel up through the walls.

Foundation depth varies considerably across the area. Properties built on the Mercia Mudstone geology may have relatively shallow foundations, which can be problematic if trees are planted nearby. The shrink-swell behaviour of clay soils means properties with large deciduous trees within the root zone require careful assessment. We examine the surrounding land for tree coverage and any signs of ground movement that might indicate foundation instability. This is particularly relevant for properties in areas like DE13 7EG and DE13 7AE, where older properties may have been affected by changes in nearby vegetation over the years.

The local housing stock includes properties from various building periods, each with their own construction characteristics. Pre-1919 properties typically have solid walls, traditional timber roof structures, and may have original features that require specialist assessment. Properties built between 1919 and 1980 generally feature cavity wall construction, though insulation standards vary. Modern properties post-1980 should have modern building regulation compliance, though we still check for common defects related to construction quality and material standards.