RICS Level 2 Survey in Mattersey

Our RICS Level 2 Survey in Mattersey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing both the interior and exterior of the building. The survey examines the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as the roof, chimneys, gutters, and drainage systems. We check for signs of damp, rot, timber defects, structural movement, and other common issues that affect properties in the Nottinghamshire region. The report uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element, making it easy for you to understand which areas require immediate attention.

Given Mattersey's geology, which features clay-rich superficial deposits overlying Sherwood Sandstone, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of subsidence, heave, or movement that can affect properties on shrink-swell prone soils. We examine external walls for crack patterns that may indicate foundation movement, check floor levels for unevenness, and assess doors and windows for sticking that could suggest structural shift. The clay soils common throughout the Bassetlaw district expand and contract with moisture changes, and properties with large trees nearby or inadequate drainage are particularly vulnerable. Our surveyors will identify these risks and advise whether you need a specialist structural engineer's assessment.

We also assess the flood risk associated with the River Idle, which runs near the village, checking for any evidence of previous flooding or water damage. Parts of the Mattersey parish, particularly low-lying areas close to the river and its tributaries, are identified as having a risk of flooding from rivers and surface water. We look for water marks, damaged plasterwork at lower levels, and any signs of damp at ground floor height that might indicate historical flooding issues. Properties in the Conservation Area or those that are listed may require additional consideration, and we will advise you accordingly if our inspection suggests a more detailed survey is necessary.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and structure
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Exterior finishes and pointing
• Chimneys and flues
• Garages and outbuildings

Properties in Mattersey represent a diverse mix of construction periods, from historic cottages dating back to before 1919 through to modern developments from the post-1980s era. This varied stock means our surveyors frequently encounter a range of typical defects. Older properties, which make up a significant proportion of the village's housing, often suffer from damp issues due to solid wall construction lacking modern damp-proof courses. Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation are common findings, particularly in properties with inadequate ventilation or compromised external renders. The traditional brick properties throughout the Bassetlaw district were built without cavity walls, making them more susceptible to damp penetration, especially where pointing has deteriorated over time.

The clay-rich geology around Mattersey presents a moderate to high shrink-swell risk, meaning we regularly inspect for signs of subsidence or foundation movement. Properties with large trees nearby or those with older shallow foundations are particularly susceptible. We examine brickwork for characteristic crack patterns that indicate foundation movement, check internal floors for levelness, and assess whether doors and windows open and close properly. The superficial deposits of alluvium and glaciofluvial sand and gravel overlying the Sherwood Sandstone can behave unpredictably with moisture changes, and poor drainage around properties can exacerbate these issues. If we identify significant concerns, we will recommend a structural engineer's inspection.

Roof conditions also feature prominently in our reports, with slipped tiles, perished felt, failing leadwork, and chimney pointing issues frequently identified, especially on older properties that have not been maintained to modern standards. Many properties in Mattersey feature traditional clay tile or slate roofs that are now reaching an age where regular maintenance is essential. We inspect roof slopes from ground level and within accessible loft spaces, looking for broken or slipped tiles, deteriorated ridge tiles, and signs of past or current leaks. Chimney stacks are particularly vulnerable in this area, with pointing deterioration and damaged flashing common issues on properties exposed to prevailing winds.

Electrical wiring in properties built before the 1980s often does not meet current regulations, and our surveyors will note any visible electrical concerns that should be investigated by a qualified electrician. We cannot remove socket covers or test circuits, but we will visually inspect consumer units, wiring colours, and the condition of visible cabling. Given the village's proximity to the River Idle, we also check for signs of flood damage or water ingress in lower-lying properties, ensuring you are aware of any flood risk before completing your purchase. Properties near the river floodplain may have flood resilience measures in place, or may have suffered from historical flooding that has caused damage to lower floors and plasterwork.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile slippage and felt failure
• Subsidence and foundation movement
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Chimney and leadwork deterioration
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Drainage and guttering issues
• Window and door deterioration