RICS Level 2 Survey in S70 1 Barnsley

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's visible and accessible elements. We check the condition of the roof, walls, foundations, damp proof course, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems where visible. The survey includes an assessment of any urgent defects that require immediate attention, as well as less critical issues that may need future maintenance. Our surveyor will move through every room, examine the loft space where accessible, and inspect the exterior of the building from ground level.

For properties in S70 1, our inspectors pay particular attention to the common issues affecting local housing. Given the prevalence of terraced properties built before 1919 and between 1919-1945, we specifically look for signs of damp, structural movement, and timber decay. Many properties in this area have solid brick walls rather than cavity walls, which can be more susceptible to penetrating damp if the external render has deteriorated. We check for evidence of previous damp treatment and assess whether existing damp proof courses are still effective, particularly in ground floor rooms.

The survey also examines the condition of roof coverings, which are often original on older properties and may show signs of deterioration. We inspect roof tiles or slates for damage, check chimney stacks for stability, and examine flashings around roof windows and dormer conversions. On properties with flat roofs, common on extensions and garage conversions, we pay extra attention to the condition of the felt or rubber membrane, as these have a limited lifespan. We also check gutters and downpipes, as blocked or damaged drainage can lead to water ingress that causes significant damage over time.

We provide a clear, colour-coded traffic light rating system in our reports: red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects that need future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. Each section of the property receives a rating, making it easy to prioritises repair work. The report also includes our professional opinion on the property's value and specific advice on any further investigations that may be needed. If we identify issues that require specialist input - such as timber infestation requiring a pest control expert, or suspected structural movement needing a structural engineer - we will clearly recommend this in your report.

• Roof and chimney inspection
• Wall and foundation assessment
• Damp and timber condition
• Window and door operation
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Drainage and drainage coverage

Properties in S70 1 face several area-specific challenges that our inspectors are trained to identify. The geology of South Yorkshire includes clay-rich soils that are susceptible to shrink-swell behaviour. This means the ground expands when wet and contracts during dry periods, which can lead to subsidence or foundation movement. Our surveyors specifically check for signs of this type of structural stress, including cracking patterns in walls that form in a stepped or diagonal pattern, and doors that stick or don't close properly. We also look for evidence of previous underpinning or foundation repair work that may indicate past movement issues.

Barnsley's mining legacy is another factor that affects properties in the S70 1 area. Historical mining activity can cause ground instability, even decades after operations ceased. The South Yorkshire Mining Advisory Service is regularly consulted for planning in the wider Barnsley area, highlighting the ongoing relevance of this issue. Our inspectors look for evidence of past mining activity and can recommend further investigations if needed. This is particularly important for properties in areas close to former colliery sites or where historical maps show mining features. If we identify potential mining-related issues, we will recommend you consult the Coal Authority or a specialist mining engineer.

The majority of properties in S70 1 are terraced houses built before 1945, with many dating back to the Victorian era when Barnsley's coal industry was at its peak. These older properties often have traditional construction methods including solid brick walls, original timber floors, and lathe and plaster internal walls. While these buildings have character, they can harbour hidden issues such as rising damp due to failed or absent damp proof courses, outdated electrical wiring that does not meet current regulations, and worn roof coverings that may be approaching the end of their useful life. Our Level 2 survey is specifically designed to identify these common problems in properties of this age and construction type.

In addition to the main property, we also inspect any outbuildings, garages, and boundaries that fall within the property curtilage. Many terraces in S70 1 have long rear gardens that may contain shared drainage or other infrastructure. We note the condition of boundary walls, which are often the responsibility of the property owner, and check for any signs of instability that could pose a safety risk. Our comprehensive approach means you won't get any unpleasant surprises after completing your purchase.

• Subsidence from clay soil movement
• Mining-related ground instability
• Victorian terraced property issues
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Outdated electrical systems
• Roof and chimney deterioration