RICS Level 2 Survey in Stone ST12

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. The surveyor examines the main elements of the building including walls, roofs, floors, doors, windows, and permanent fixtures. In Stone, where many properties feature traditional brick construction dating from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues such as rising damp, deterioration of external render, and the condition of original timber windows that characterise much of the town's housing stock. We inspect each element systematically, documenting our findings with photographs and clear descriptions that help you understand exactly what we have found.

The survey includes an assessment of the property's services, reviewing electrical, gas, water, and drainage installations that are visible and accessible. Our inspectors note any obvious defects or areas requiring specialist attention. For properties in Stone, this often includes evaluating older electrical systems that may date from the 1960s or 1970s, checking for adequate ventilation in converted buildings, and assessing the condition of coal fireplaces or flues that may still be present in period properties. We flag any electrical installations that do not meet current regulations and advise on the need for a qualified electrician to carry out further testing.

Following the inspection, you receive a detailed RICS Condition Report that clearly identifies any issues using traffic light ratings - red for serious defects requiring urgent attention, amber for issues needing future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. The report includes practical guidance on maintenance matters and estimates of the likely cost for repairing any significant defects discovered during the inspection. We provide these cost indications based on our experience with similar properties in the Stone area, helping you budget for any work that may be needed after completion.

• External walls and roof structure
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Services and utilities inspection
• Floors, stairs, and ceilings
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

Stone sits on geology featuring Mercia Mudstone, a clay-rich formation that creates potential for subsidence and heave issues, particularly during dry summers or where mature trees are close to foundations. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of movement such as cracking to walls, doors that stick, and uneven floors that may indicate foundation problems. The clay geology also affects drainage, as clay soils have low permeability and can lead to surface water pooling and drainage system stress after heavy rainfall. We examine the grounds around the property for evidence of tree roots near foundations, old drainage systems, and any signs of past movement that might indicate ongoing structural concerns.

The River Trent flows near Stone, and properties in low-lying areas close to the river and its tributaries may be at risk of fluvial flooding. Surface water flooding can also occur in urbanised parts of the town where drainage systems become overwhelmed during intense storms. Our surveyors note the location of the property in relation to flood risk and advise on any flood resilience measures that may be present or needed. We check for flood barriers, the position of electrical sockets at lower levels, and any evidence of previous flooding such as water marks or damp staining at lower levels.

Properties in Stone town centre may fall within the Conservation Area, which brings specific considerations for any future alterations or extensions. Our surveyors are familiar with the local planning context and will flag if the property is listed or within a conservation area, where special permissions may be required for works. Many period properties in Stone feature traditional construction methods including solid brick walls, original timber sash windows, and decorative stone detailing that requires specialist knowledge to assess accurately. We understand the significance of these features and can advise on their condition and any implications for maintenance or renovation.

The housing stock in ST12 shows a mix of ages, with the historic core containing properties pre-1919, significant post-war expansion, and more recent developments from the 1980s onwards. Older properties commonly exhibit defects including deteriorated roof coverings, failing damp proof courses, rot in timber windows and floor joists, and outdated electrical systems that may not meet current regulations. Our detailed inspection provides you with a clear picture of the property's condition regardless of its age or construction type. We have extensive experience with the various construction methods used in Stone properties, from traditional solid wall Victorian terraces to more modern cavity wall constructions.

Stone's housing market reflects its history as a prosperous market town, with a diverse range of properties that appeal to different buyers. The historic town centre features Victorian and Edwardian terraced properties along streets such as the High Street and surrounding roads, many of which retain original features like sash windows, decorative plasterwork, and period fireplaces. These properties were typically constructed with solid brick walls, either single-skin or with narrow cavities, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration than modern cavity wall construction.

Semi-detached houses form a significant portion of the residential stock in Stone, particularly in areas developed during the post-war period through to the 1970s. These properties often feature cavity wall construction with brick external elevations and tile or slate roofs. While generally in reasonable condition, our surveyors frequently identify issues such as deterioration of roof tiles, cracked render, and original windows requiring attention. The garage structures commonly attached to or detached from these properties also require inspection, as they often show signs of age-related wear.

More recent residential development in and around Stone has brought modern housing estates built primarily from the 1980s onwards. These properties typically feature UPVC windows, modern heating systems, and cavity wall insulation. However, they are not without their own potential issues, including problems with build quality on some developments, inadequate insulation in lofts or walls, and drainage issues related to the compact nature of modern builds. Our Level 2 Survey addresses all these property types, providing you with a thorough assessment regardless of the property age.