RICS Level 2 Home Survey in Staffordshire

Our inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, inside and outside. This includes the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, as we assess the overall structural integrity and condition of the building. We examine the condition of the roof, including tiles, flashing, and chimneys, and report on any signs of damage, wear, or potential water ingress that could lead to costly repairs. The survey uses the RICS traffic light rating system, with red indicating urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for matters needing future repair, and green for satisfactory condition.

The survey covers all major building services including the plumbing system, electrical wiring, heating installation, and drainage. Our surveyors test accessible switches and sockets where it is safe to do so, and note the age and condition of the boiler and heating system. In Staffordshire's older properties, dating from the Victorian and Edwardian periods common in areas like Leek, Cheadle, Lichfield, and the market towns throughout the Moorlands, we pay particular attention to the condition of original features and any alterations that may have been carried out over the years. We check for outdated electrical installations that may not meet current regulations and assess whether the heating system is adequate for the property size.

We also assess the condition of any outbuildings, garages, and boundaries, as well as the general environment around the property including potential flood risks and ground conditions. Staffordshire's geology, which includes areas of clay soil prone to shrink-swell movement, means our surveyors pay close attention to signs of subsidence or movement in the property's foundations, particularly in properties with trees or hedgerows nearby. The sandstone geology visible along the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal also influences foundation conditions in certain areas, and we tailor our inspection accordingly.

Our RICS Level 2 survey includes a market valuation and rebuild cost assessment, which is particularly useful for insurance purposes and mortgage requirements. This valuation helps you understand if the property is priced appropriately for its condition and location within the Staffordshire market. The report also includes a floorplan of the property, giving you a clear visual reference of the layout and the areas surveyed.

• Structural condition assessment
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Damp and timber decay analysis
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Heating system assessment
• Boundary and outbuilding review
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Property floorplan

Our surveyors regularly identify several common issues when inspecting properties across Staffordshire. In older Victorian and Edwardian properties, particularly those in areas like Leek, Cheadle, Stone, and Lichfield, we frequently find aging roofs with slipped tiles, deteriorating chimneys, and original leadwork that requires attention. The traditional construction methods used in these period properties, including solid wall construction and lime-based mortars, require specific knowledge to assess correctly, and our surveyors understand how these materials perform over time.

Damp is a common issue in Staffordshire properties, particularly in solid-walled Victorian terraces where penetrating damp and rising damp can affect internal walls and timber elements. Our surveyors use their experience to identify the source of dampness and recommend appropriate remediation. In properties with cellars or basements, which are common in older terraced houses, we check for water ingress and ventilation issues that can lead to damp and mold problems.

In newer properties, particularly those built in the last 20 years, we often identify issues with window installations, roof valley detailing, and the integration of modern building materials. Properties with concrete tile roofs, which are common in 1970s and 1980s developments throughout Staffordshire, may show signs of weathering and deterioration that require monitoring or repair. Our detailed reports flag all these issues with clear condition ratings so you know exactly what attention is needed.

Foundation and subsidence issues are particularly important in Staffordshire due to the clay soils found throughout the county. Properties with trees or hedgerows nearby are at risk of ground movement as tree roots draw moisture from the soil, causing it to shrink during dry periods. Our surveyors carefully examine walls, floors, and external areas for signs of cracking or movement that may indicate foundation issues requiring further investigation by a structural engineer.

The Staffordshire property market has seen significant activity, with over 13,500 transactions in the past year and prices increasing by approximately 3%. Given the investment involved in purchasing property here, a RICS Level 2 survey provides essential protection and information. Our report highlights any issues that could affect the property's value or require expensive repairs, giving you leverage to negotiate a lower price or request that the seller carries out repairs before completion. With the average property price at £251,000, identifying even minor issues can save you thousands in future repair costs.

Many properties in Staffordshire present unique challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. The county's older housing stock, particularly in areas like Lichfield, Stone, and the market towns throughout the Moorlands, often features traditional construction methods and materials that may require specific knowledge to assess properly. Properties near the River Stour or in low-lying areas may have flood risks that our surveyors will investigate and report on. We check the property's proximity to watercourses and assess any existing flood mitigation measures.

New developments across Staffordshire, such as those in Curborough near Lichfield, Stone, and Burton upon Trent, feature modern construction techniques including air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, and sustainable timber frame builds. Our surveyors are familiar with these contemporary building methods and can identify any defects or installation issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. With new build prices ranging from around £172,000 for starter homes to over £540,000 for larger properties at developments like St John's Grange and Curborough Lakes, ensuring your investment is sound is more important than ever.

• Avoid costly repair bills after purchase
• Negotiate a fair price based on property condition
• Identify serious defects before exchange
• Plan for future maintenance costs
• Understand the true cost of your purchase