RICS Level 2 Survey in ST14 Uttoxeter

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition, focusing on all readily accessible parts of the building. The survey includes a thorough inspection of the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, and permanent fixtures. We examine both the interior and exterior of the property, checking for defects that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Our surveyors climb into loft spaces where safe access allows, check under floorboards where accessible, and assess all visible and accessible elements.

For properties in ST14, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues common in the local area. The geology around Uttoxeter consists of Mercia Mudstone, which contains clay that can expand and contract with moisture changes. This shrink-swell potential can cause subsidence, particularly in older properties with shallower foundations. Our surveyors specifically look for signs of movement, cracking, or settlement that might indicate foundation problems. We've found diagonal crack patterns extending from window and door frames, which often signal foundation movement in properties built on this clay-rich soil.

The ST14 area also includes properties near the River Dove, where flood risk is a consideration. Our inspectors assess the property's vulnerability to flooding and advise on any visible signs of previous water damage. We also check the condition of rainwater goods, which is particularly important given the mix of older properties with traditional brick construction and newer homes with modern cavity wall systems. In our experience, properties along Alexandra Road and near the racecourse can be particularly vulnerable to surface water flooding during heavy rainfall.

For new build properties at developments like Bramshall Meadows, The Pastures, Bramshall Green, and Dove Manor, our surveyors check for common construction defects that can affect newly built homes. We assess the quality of brickwork, window installations, roof tiling, and the general standard of workmanship that may not be apparent to buyers excited about their new home.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Foundations and signs of subsidence
• Flashing and drainage
• Fire and safety hazards

Properties in the ST14 area present various challenges that our surveyors regularly identify. Traditional older properties in Uttoxeter, particularly those built before 1919, often have solid walls without cavity insulation, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration. Rising damp due to failed or non-existent damp proof courses is a common finding, as is penetrating damp caused by degraded pointing, porous brickwork, or defective rainwater systems. We've inspected numerous properties on Carter Street, High Street, and the surrounding conservation area where damp has caused significant damage to internal plasterwork and timber joinery.

Timber defects are another frequent issue in older ST14 properties. Woodworm and rot can affect roof timbers, floor joists, and window frames, particularly in properties that haven't been well maintained. Our surveyors carefully inspect these elements and note any signs of deterioration that could require costly repairs. In properties with original timber sash windows, we often find decay to the bottom rails and sills where moisture has collected over years of condensation and rain penetration.

For properties with clay-rich soils (Mercia Mudstone), we specifically assess foundation conditions and look for evidence of subsidence or heave. Cracking to walls, especially diagonal cracks extending from windows and doors, can indicate movement related to shrink-swell clay. We also check for trees close to the property, as vegetation can exacerbate soil movement and lead to foundation problems. In our experience, properties with large deciduous trees within 15 metres of the building are particularly at risk, especially during prolonged dry periods when the clay soil shrinks away from foundations.

Electrical safety is another important consideration. Properties over 50 years old often have outdated wiring that doesn't meet current regulations. While our survey is visual and non-invasive, we note any obvious electrical concerns that should be investigated by a qualified electrician. We've found exposed wiring, old consumer units with rewireable fuses, and lack of earthing in numerous older properties across ST14 that require immediate attention from a qualified electrician.

The local housing stock also includes properties with original cast iron gutters and downpipes that have corroded over decades of exposure to Staffordshire weather. These defects can lead to water penetration and associated damp problems if not addressed promptly. Our surveyors check all rainwater goods carefully and note any blockages, leaks, or signs of corrosion that suggest the system needs replacement or repair.