RICS Level 3 Survey in Coppull

The housing stock in Coppull reflects its rich industrial heritage. Many properties in the area were built during the rapid expansion of the village after 1850, when rows of houses were constructed to accommodate coal miners and factory workers. These Victorian and Edwardian terraced properties, which represent the majority of sales in the village, often feature traditional construction methods that can present specific challenges. Our surveyors regularly inspect properties with original brickwork, aging roof structures, and older electrical and plumbing systems that may not meet current regulations. We have found that many of these older properties, while structurally sound, require ongoing maintenance that buyers may not have budgeted for.

The construction methods used in Coppull's Victorian terraces typically include solid brick walls without cavity insulation, which can be prone to damp penetration if pointing has deteriorated. Roof structures often feature traditional timber rafters with slate or clay tile coverings that may be original or have been replaced over the years. Our inspectors examine the condition of these elements carefully, checking for signs of rot in timber, deterioration in mortar pointing, and the condition of flashing around chimneys. We have found that properties on streets like Chapel Road and Preston Road frequently require attention to their roof coverings and parapet walls.

Coppull's mining history is another factor that requires careful consideration during property surveys. The village was home to several collieries, including Chisnall Hall Colliery and Coppull Hall Colliery, both now closed. Disused mine workings and deep shafts exist in the area, and while the risk of mining subsidence is generally low for modern properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of movement, cracking, or settlement that could indicate underlying issues. We examine wall surfaces for characteristic patterns of movement, check that door and window frames are not distorted, and assess floors for levelness. For properties in areas close to former mining activity, we recommend additional vigilance and may suggest specialist investigations.

The village also contains nine Grade II listed buildings, including Coppull Hall, Coppull Old Hall, and the historic Coppull Ring Mill. If you are considering purchasing a listed property, our surveyors can assess the specific challenges of maintaining period features while identifying any structural concerns. Listed buildings often require specialist knowledge of traditional construction methods and conservation requirements, and our team has experience evaluating these unique properties throughout the Chorley area. We understand that working on listed buildings requires a balanced approach, identifying essential repairs while respecting the historical character that makes these properties special.

Beyond the mining heritage, Coppull's older properties may also show signs of thermal inefficiency that our surveyors document in detail. Original single-glazed windows, solid brick walls without insulation, and older heating systems can all contribute to high energy costs. Our Level 3 Survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's current condition, enabling you to plan for improvements and understand the investment required to bring the property up to modern standards of comfort and efficiency.

Coppull continues to grow with new housing developments bringing modern properties to the village. The Church View development by Miller Homes offers 3 and 4-bedroom detached and semi-detached homes priced from £235,000 to £400,000. Located in the PR7 5AB postcode area, this development features contemporary designs with modern fixtures and fittings. Meanwhile, Story Homes' Elmbrook Park development features 3, 4, and 5-bedroom detached properties ranging from £425,000 to £535,000. These homes incorporate a variety of bricks and render on their exteriors, creating an attractive streetscape that has become popular with families looking to relocate to the area.

A further 118 new homes are planned at Blainscough Lane, with construction commencing in 2024. This development by Story Homes will include a mix of one-bedroom apartments and two- and three-bedroom affordable houses, alongside market properties with three to five bedrooms. The development sits adjacent to Blainscough Hall and represents continued growth in the Coppull area. For buyers considering these new properties, understanding what is planned in the surrounding area can be important for long-term investment considerations.

While new build properties benefit from modern construction methods and warranties, a Level 3 Survey remains valuable. Our surveyors can identify potential defects in recently constructed properties, check the quality of finishes, and ensure that all installations function correctly. We have inspected new build properties across the country and understand that even brand new homes can have issues that were not caught during the builder's quality control process. Common findings include incomplete snagging items, inadequate sealing around windows, and issues with mechanical ventilation systems. For buyers at Elmbrook Park and Church View, the survey provides independent verification that your new home has been inspected beyond the standard builder's warranty inspections. We can also advise on any outstanding warranty matters that should be taken up with the developer.

While Coppull benefits from generally low fluvial and tidal flood risk, surface water flooding represents a concern in certain areas. The village is bounded by several watercourses including Whittle Brook, Clancutt Brook, the River Yarrow, Eller Brook, Hic-Bibi Brook, and Stars Brook. These watercourses can contribute to localized flooding during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly where drainage systems are overwhelmed. The Central Lancashire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has identified specific areas, particularly southwest of the Coppull Enterprise Centre on Mill Lane, as having significant surface water flood risk. Our surveyors check these factors when inspecting properties in affected areas.

Our surveyors inspect drainage systems, check for signs of dampness or water staining, and assess the property's susceptibility to flooding. We examine gutters and downpipes for blockages or damage, look at the fall of external ground levels to ensure water flows away from the property, and assess the condition of any basement or cellar areas. For properties in identified flood risk areas, we provide specific recommendations for flood resilience measures and may suggest further investigations into the property's drainage infrastructure. This might include advice on non-return valves for drainage, flood barriers, or the installation of sump pumps.

Lancashire County Council has undertaken work to map drainage systems in Coppull, and our team stays informed about local flood risk assessments to provide accurate advice. We check the PR7 5WP postcode area specifically for real-time river and rainfall levels that can indicate current flood risk. When we survey a property near any of the brooks that flow through Coppull, we pay particular attention to the boundary treatments and any signs of past water damage. Understanding the history of flooding in a specific location can be crucial for making an informed purchase decision.