RICS Level 2 Survey in Sturton le Steeple

The RICS Level 2 survey, commonly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a thorough inspection of a property's condition while remaining suitable for conventional properties in reasonable condition. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe access is possible, the exterior walls, windows and doors, damp-proof courses, and critical fixtures like kitchens and bathrooms. The survey produces a clear traffic light rating system that instantly highlights conditions requiring immediate attention, those needing future repair, and areas that are satisfactory. This systematic approach ensures you receive a clear picture of the property's condition without overwhelming technical jargon.

For properties in Sturton le Steeple, our surveyors pay particular attention to the local construction methods and materials. Many homes in this area feature traditional brick or stone construction with pantile or slate roofs, and our reports specifically address the condition of these elements. The village centre around St Peter and St Paul church contains numerous stone buildings dating back to the 17th to 19th centuries, with some incorporating fragments of Roman brick in their construction. Our inspectors understand these traditional building methods and can identify defects common to historic properties in the area, from deteriorating stonework to aging roof coverings.

Given that the village sits on Mercia Mudstone, a clay-rich geology known for its shrink-swell characteristics, our inspectors carefully assess foundations and structural elements for signs of movement or subsidence that could affect properties in the area. The Permo-Triassic rocks underlying Sturton le Steeple create a notable shrink-swell hazard, particularly for older buildings with shallow foundations. We examine walls for characteristic cracking patterns, check door and window operation for signs of structural movement, and note any previous repairs that may indicate historic subsidence issues.

The Level 2 survey includes a comprehensive assessment of damp and timber defects, which are particularly relevant given the age of much of the housing stock in Sturton le Steeple. Properties without modern damp-proof courses or with original timber elements receive detailed reporting on their current condition and recommendations for any remedial works required. Our reports also cover electrical and plumbing installations, highlighting where systems may not meet current regulations or where maintenance is needed. We specifically look for outdated electrical Consumer Units, the presence of old rubber or fabric-covered wiring, and lead water pipes that remain in many older properties throughout the village.

• Foundation and structural assessment
• Damp and timber condition evaluation
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Surface water flooding risk analysis
• Energy efficiency considerations

Properties in Sturton le Steeple face several area-specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify and assess. The underlying geology consists predominantly of Permo-Triassic rocks, specifically the Keuper Marl Formation, which creates a notable shrink-swell hazard. This clay-rich soil expands and contracts with moisture changes, potentially causing subsidence and structural movement in properties with shallow foundations, which is common in older buildings throughout the village. Our surveyors specifically examine walls for crack patterns that may indicate this type of ground movement, particularly in properties with trees or large shrubs nearby that can draw moisture from the clay soil.

Surface water flooding represents a genuine risk in certain parts of Sturton le Steeple. The Environment Agency has identified specific areas at risk, particularly at the crossroads at the southern end of Cross Street and at the bottom of Springs Lane, where runoff from higher land channels along roads and ponds at low points. Our surveyors inspect properties for evidence of previous flooding and assess the drainage characteristics of the site, providing valuable information about flood risk that may not be apparent from the property itself. We examine external ground levels, boundary treatments, and the gradient of adjacent land to determine whether the property may be susceptible to surface water accumulation during heavy rainfall.

The village's mining and quarrying history also warrants consideration. Aggregate Industries acquired mineral rights for sand and gravel extraction at Sturton le Steeple Quarry in 2023, with extraction planned until 2035. While active quarrying creates its own considerations, the historical extraction activities in the area may have affected ground conditions in some locations. Our surveyors are aware of these local factors and include appropriate assessments in their reports, noting any evidence of ground instability or historical mining activity that could affect the property. We also consider the proximity of the Steeple Renewables Project solar farm development, which occupies over 200 acres north and west of Field Farm on Wood Lane.

Additionally, the proximity of the River Trent means parts of Sturton le Steeple fall within Environment Agency flood zones 1, 2, and 3, indicating varying probabilities of river flooding. Although flood defences exist along the Trent, our surveyors assess the specific flood risk for each property and note any evidence of previous flood damage or water ingress. The eastern part of the village, particularly areas near Catchwater Drain, may face additional reservoir flooding risks when combined with river flooding scenarios. This information proves invaluable for informed purchasing decisions and may affect insurance requirements.