RICS Level 2 Survey in Ipstones

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our inspectors examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, and the roof structure. In Ipstones, where many properties feature traditional stone construction, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of stonework, pointing, and any signs of movement or settlement that may indicate underlying issues.

The survey includes a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition across ten key areas: grounds, damp proofing, drains, walls, joinery, ceilings, fireplaces, roofs, timber defects, and insulation. Each section is thoroughly examined, with defects documented and their severity clearly indicated using traffic light ratings - red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects requiring future repair, and green for satisfactory condition.

Given Ipstones' housing stock includes period properties dating back to the 17th century, our inspectors are experienced in identifying issues commonly found in older buildings. This includes assessing the condition of lime mortar pointing (often inappropriate cement mortar has been used in past repairs), checking for signs of penetrating damp in solid stone walls, and evaluating older roof structures for timber decay or slipped tiles.

The survey also includes a market valuation and rebuild cost assessment, which proves invaluable for insurance purposes and mortgage requirements. Our inspectors use their local knowledge of the Ipstones market to provide an accurate current valuation based on the property's condition and the local market trends.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Timber condition and rot
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Drainage and waste systems
• Energy efficiency considerations

Ipstones features a distinctive housing stock predominantly comprised of stone-built properties, particularly the charming cottages that give the village much of its character. Many of these properties were constructed using traditional methods with solid stone walls, which present specific considerations during a survey. Our inspectors are trained to assess the condition of historic stonework, looking for signs of weathering, erosion of mortar joints, and any movement that might suggest subsidence issues.

The village has seen significant property price growth, with prices 41% above the 2022 peak of £314,569. This rapid appreciation means many buyers are paying premium prices for properties they may not have had time to thoroughly assess. Our Level 2 survey provides the objective, professional assessment you need to ensure your substantial investment is sound. The report's market valuation component also confirms you're paying a fair price in the current market.

Properties in Ipstones range from historic cottages dating back to the 17th century to more recent detached family homes. Regardless of age, all properties benefit from our comprehensive inspection approach. For the older properties particularly, we assess whether previous owners have maintained traditional features appropriately or whether DIY work has introduced problems. Many period properties we survey show evidence of past repairs using modern materials that can actually cause long-term damage to historic fabric.

The local environment in Staffordshire Moorlands means properties can be affected by ground conditions that our surveyors know to look for. While specific mining history data wasn't found for Ipstones itself, the wider Staffordshire area has historic mining activity, and our inspectors are experienced in identifying tell-tale signs of ground movement or settlement that might relate to historical mining activity or natural soil conditions.