RICS Level 2 Survey in Streethay

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed assessment of the property's condition, focusing on any issues that might affect its value or require future maintenance. We inspect the roof structure, walls, windows and doors, plumbing and electrical systems, damp levels, and the overall integrity of the building. The survey includes a visual inspection of accessible areas, meaning we do not undertake invasive investigations but we do look behind accessible panels and into loft spaces where it is safe to do so. Our surveyors will move furniture where necessary to inspect behind items and check the condition of hidden areas where accessible.

For properties in Streethay, our surveyors pay particular attention to the construction methods used in the area. Many homes here were built using traditional brick and block techniques, while newer developments may feature modern brick, render, or timber cladding. We check for signs of movement, damp penetration, and structural concerns that are particularly relevant given Staffordshire's geology, which includes areas of Mercia Mudstone that can be susceptible to shrink-swell issues in clay-rich soil. This is especially important for properties with shallow foundations that may be affected by seasonal moisture changes in the ground.

The Level 2 report includes a clear traffic light rating system that highlights the condition of each element inspected. Red indicates urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber flags matters that should be investigated further, and green confirms that elements are in satisfactory condition. We also provide practical advice on estimated repair costs and recommended next steps, helping you plan financially for any remediation work identified during the inspection. Each section of the report includes clear photographs showing any defects we have identified, so you can see exactly what our surveyors found.

Our inspection covers all key building elements systematically. We examine the roof from both inside the loft space and externally where visible, checking for missing tiles, damaged flashing, and signs of past or current leaks. Walls are assessed for cracking, movement, and the condition of any render or cladding systems. Windows and doors are tested for operation and sealing, while we also inspect the condition of sealants and ironmongery. We visually inspect accessible electrical and plumbing installations, though we do not test them or certify their compliance with current regulations.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proof course, and insulation
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical installations
• Damp and timber condition
• Boundaries, outbuildings, and grounds

Properties in Streethay reflect the varied development history of this growing suburb, with construction methods ranging from traditional brick-built homes to modern timber-frame developments. The newer housing that has transformed parts of the village, particularly around the Cathedral View development and other recent schemes, typically uses modern building techniques including brick outer leaves with cavity insulation and concrete tile or slate roofing. These modern construction methods generally perform well, but our surveyors have identified common issues in newbuild properties including inadequate sealing around windows, insufficient ventilation in roof spaces, and minor defects in fixtures that may not be immediately apparent to untrained buyers.

Older properties in Streethay, particularly those built before 1980 along established roads like Burton Road and near the village centre, were constructed using traditional solid wall methods that differ significantly from modern cavity wall construction. These older properties may lack existing damp proof courses or have older style systems that have reached the end of their effective lifespan. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing the condition of these traditional structures and identifying issues such as rising damp, penetrating damp through degraded pointing, and the condition of original roof structures that may contain aging timbers.

The underlying geology in this part of Staffordshire includes clay-rich soils that can experience volume changes with moisture variations. While this does not necessarily cause problems for most properties, our surveyors pay close attention to signs of movement or settlement that might indicate the property is affected by shrink-swell behaviour in the underlying clay. We look for cracking patterns in walls, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, and other indicators of structural movement that might require further investigation or specialist input.

Streethay sits within the WS13 postcode area and has experienced considerable development activity in recent years. While the area includes newerbuild properties on developments that have transformed parts of the village, there are also established residential areas featuring properties from various eras. A Level 2 Survey is valuable for both new and older properties, though the nature of issues identified often differs between them. The mix of housing stock in Streethay means that buyers need professional guidance tailored to the specific property type they are considering.

Newer properties in Streethay, such as those on modern developments near the Cathedral View area, may still present issues despite their relative youth. Common findings in newbuild properties include snagging items such as sealant gaps around windows, minor damp issues caused by inadequate ventilation during the drying-out process, and cosmetic defects in fixtures and fittings. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying these issues and distinguishing between minor snags and more serious defects that may require attention from the developer. We understand that newbuild warranties are not always comprehensive and that some defects may not become apparent until the property has been occupied for some time.

Older properties in Streethay, particularly those along established roads, may present different challenges. Properties built before 1980 can suffer from aging roof structures, outdated electrical installations that may not meet current regulations, and potential issues with damp proof courses that have reached the end of their effective lifespan. The clay-rich soils found in parts of Staffordshire can also contribute to movement in properties over time, making it important to have a professional assessment of the structural condition. Our surveyors are familiar with the typical defects found in properties of various ages and can advise on the significance of any issues identified.

Given that house prices in Streethay are currently 10% above the 2022 peak of £384,400, purchasing a property represents a significant financial commitment. A Level 2 Survey helps ensure you understand exactly what you are buying and any financial implications of defects or required repairs before you complete the purchase. The information in our report can be used to renegotiate the purchase price if significant issues are found, or to budget for any remedial works that may be required. Many buyers have found that the cost of a survey is money well spent when it reveals issues that would otherwise have been a surprise after completion.