RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Wallasey (CH46)

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey provides an exhaustive examination of all visible and accessible elements of the property. Unlike the more basic Level 2 survey, this inspection goes significantly deeper into the structural integrity of the building. Our inspectors assess the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, stairs, and ramps, examining them for signs of movement, damp, rot, or other defects that could affect the property's stability or habitability. We take particular care to identify any structural movement that may have occurred over the life of the building, which is especially important in older properties where settlement is common.

The survey includes a thorough inspection of the roof structure, covering the condition of tiles or slate, flashing, gutters, and chimneys. Our inspectors will access the roof space where safe and practical to do so, examining the rafters, joists, and insulation. In Wallasey, where properties range from Victorian-era terraced houses in areas like Sefton and New Brighton to more modern developments, understanding the condition of the roof is particularly important given the exposure to coastal weather conditions. Salt-laden air from the Irish Sea can accelerate the degradation of roofing materials, making regular inspection crucial.

We also inspect the external fabric of the building in detail, including brickwork, pointing, render, and any cladding. The inspector will look for cracks, bulges, or signs of movement that might indicate structural issues. They will examine windows and doors for condition and operation, and check the condition of any extensions or modifications that may have been made to the original property. In the CH46 area, where many properties have been extended over the years to accommodate growing families, we pay particular attention to the quality of any alterations and whether appropriate building regulations approval was obtained.

Inside the property, we inspect the condition of all internal walls, floors, and ceilings, looking for signs of damp, cracking, or other defects. We examine the condition of kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and other fixtures. We also inspect the condition of any woodwork, including skirting boards, door frames, and window reveals. Our inspectors understand that internal finishes can sometimes hide more serious structural issues, which is why we take a methodical approach to examining every accessible area of the property.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Chimneys and flashings
• Floors, walls, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Kitchen and bathroom fittings
• Damp and rot assessment
• Electrical and plumbing visible defects

Wallasey's position on the Wirral peninsula means that properties in the CH46 area can be exposed to coastal weather conditions, including salt-laden air that can accelerate the deterioration of certain building materials. Our inspectors are experienced in identifying the signs of weather-related damage and can assess whether the property has been adequately maintained to withstand these local conditions. This is particularly important for external timber elements, mortar between bricks, and any metal fixtures which can suffer from accelerated corrosion in coastal environments.

The CH46 postcode includes a variety of property types, from older Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses in areas like Sefton and New Brighton to more modern semi-detached and detached properties. Each construction era brings its own typical defects and maintenance requirements. Our inspectors understand these patterns and know what to look for in each type of property common to the Wallasey area. For example, Victorian properties often have solid floors rather than suspended timber, while post-war properties may have different considerations around cavity wall construction.

With the average property price in CH46 being over £217,000 and the market showing positive growth, the cost of a comprehensive Level 3 Survey represents a small percentage of the property value but provides invaluable information and negotiation leverage. If significant defects are identified, you may be able to negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to cover remedial works. The local market has shown 3% growth over the past year and is 5% above the 2022 peak, making it especially important to ensure you're making a sound investment.

The local economy in the Wallasey area includes employers such as Holiferm, a biosurfactant company with operations in the area, as well as roles linked to Pilgrim's Europe and Premier Foods. This economic activity supports the local housing market and means properties in CH46 continue to attract buyers. However, with an average listing price currently around £242,498 and some properties showing price reductions from their peak, due diligence through a comprehensive survey is more important than ever.

Our experience surveying properties throughout the CH46 area has shown us that certain issues recur frequently in local properties. Understanding these common problems can help you know what to expect from your survey and why a comprehensive Level 3 inspection is particularly valuable in this area. The coastal location means that properties are subject to specific environmental factors that can affect building materials over time.

One of the most common issues we identify is damp penetration, particularly in period properties that were built before modern damp-proof courses were standard. The proximity to the coast means that properties can be more susceptible to penetrating damp, especially where maintenance has been neglected. Our inspectors will use moisture meters to assess the extent of any damp issues and determine whether they are likely to be historical or active problems requiring remediation.

Roof condition is another area of particular concern in the Wallasey area. The exposure to coastal weather can accelerate the deterioration of roofing materials, and we frequently find issues with roof tiles, pointing to chimneys, and condition of flashings. In older properties, the roof structure itself may show signs of past leaks or inadequate insulation. Given that roof repairs can be expensive, identifying these issues before you commit to a purchase allows you to budget accordingly or negotiate with the seller.

We also commonly find issues related to historic renovations and extensions. Many properties in the CH46 area have been modified over the years, and while some alterations may have been carried out to a high standard, others may have been done without appropriate building regulations approval or may have introduced structural problems. Our inspectors carefully assess any extensions or modifications and note any concerns about their construction or compliance with regulations.