RICS Level 2 Survey in Kidsgrove

Our RICS Level 2 survey in Kidsgrove provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our inspectors examine the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, and the roof structure, identifying any visible defects or areas of concern that may affect the property's value or require future investment. We access the roof space where safe and accessible, inspect the sub-floor areas where possible, and examine all visible surfaces both internally and externally.

The survey includes a thorough assessment of the condition of key building services such as plumbing, heating, and electrical installations. We check the functionality of windows and doors, inspect damp-proof courses where visible, and evaluate the overall integrity of the property's construction. For properties in Kidsgrove, this is particularly valuable given the mix of older housing stock dating back to the coal mining era alongside more modern developments that have been built on former industrial sites.

You will receive a detailed RICS-approved report that uses a clear traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that need repairing but are not serious, and red flags matters that require urgent attention or further specialist investigation. This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you are buying and what costs you may face. The report also includes a market valuation and rebuild cost assessment, which is particularly useful given the range of property values in Kidsgrove.

Our survey format covers eight key areas of the property, each assessed individually and rated according to its condition. This systematic approach ensures that no aspect of the property is overlooked during the inspection, giving you a complete picture of its current state.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp proof courses and dampness
• Plumbing and water systems
• Heating and electrical systems
• Floors, stairs, and ceilings
• External joinery and finishes

Kidsgrove presents specific challenges for property buyers that make a RICS Level 2 survey particularly valuable. The town has a rich coal mining history, and properties in the area may be built on or near former mining workings. Our surveyors are aware of these potential issues and will flag any signs of ground instability or subsidence that may relate to the underlying geology and historical mining activity. The Potteries Coalfield underlies much of the area, and unexpected mine shafts have been discovered during development works at Kidsgrove Station, demonstrating the real risk posed by the mining legacy.

The local geology in Staffordshire consists predominantly of clay soils, which are susceptible to shrink-swell movement. This means properties may experience structural movement as the ground expands and contracts with moisture levels. During periods of drought or heavy rainfall, these clay soils can cause significant stress on foundations, leading to cracking and structural issues. Our inspectors know to look for the tell-tale signs of this type of movement, including diagonal cracks near windows and doors, sticking doors and windows, and uneven floors. Trees planted near properties can exacerbate these issues as their roots extract moisture from the clay, causing it to shrink.

Many properties in Kidsgrove date from the Victorian and Edwardian periods when the town developed around coal mining. These older properties often feature traditional construction methods using lime mortar, solid walls, and suspended timber floors. While these buildings have character, they require specific maintenance approaches. Our surveyors understand traditional building methods and can identify where modern renovations may have caused problems by reducing breathability and leading to damp issues. The census data suggests a significant proportion of the housing stock is over 50 years old, making professional surveys especially important for this area.

Flood risk is another consideration for property buyers in Kidsgrove. The Trent and Mersey Canal passes through the town, and surface water flooding has been a recurring problem in areas such as The Avenue, where repeated flooding incidents have been reported due to drain blockages. Properties in low-lying areas or those with poor drainage may be susceptible to water ingress, and our surveyors will assess the general fall of the ground around the property to ensure water is directed away from the building. Planning applications for new developments in the area are required to include flood modelling reports, highlighting the significance of this issue locally.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout Kidsgrove, several recurring issues appear frequently in our reports. Dampness is one of the most common problems, particularly in older properties that may lack a proper damp-proof course or have been affected by modern refurbishments that have reduced ventilation. Our surveyors check for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation, providing guidance on appropriate remedies. The traditional lime mortar used in many Victorian and Edwardian properties is designed to breathe, and when this is pointed with modern cement mortar, moisture becomes trapped, leading to damp problems.

Roof condition is another area of concern, especially in older properties where roofs may be approaching the end of their service life. Missing or damaged tiles, worn flashing, and inadequate insulation are regularly identified. Given the age of much of the housing stock in Kidsgrove, these issues are frequently encountered and can represent significant repair costs if not addressed. We inspect the roof covering, flashings, chimneys, and roof space to assess the overall condition and identify any urgent repairs needed.

Electrical safety is particularly important in properties built before the 1970s, which make up a substantial proportion of the local housing stock. Older wiring systems such as knob-and-tube or aluminium wiring may still be present in some properties, and consumer units may not meet current regulations. Our surveyors will note any visible electrical concerns and recommend that a qualified electrician carries out a fuller inspection. We check the consumer unit, visible wiring, and socket outlets where accessible.

Drainage problems are also relatively common, particularly in areas where surface water flooding has been an issue. The Avenue in Kidsgrove has experienced repeated flooding incidents, and properties in low-lying areas may be affected by drainage issues. Our inspection includes checking gutters, downpipes, and the general fall of the ground around the property to ensure water is directed away from the building. We also note the condition of drainage pipes where visible and recommend further investigation if we suspect issues.

Given Kidsgrove's position within the former coal mining area, we pay particular attention to signs of subsidence or structural movement. Diagonal cracks wider than 3mm, sloping floors, and doors and windows that stick are all indicators that require further investigation. While not all properties will have these issues, the mining legacy means that our surveyors approach every inspection in Kidsgrove with an awareness of the potential risks.