RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Gresham

The Gresham area presents unique challenges for buyers that make a RICS Level 3 Survey particularly valuable. Research indicates that nearly half of private homes in certain parts of this neighbourhood were classified as 'non-decent' according to council surveys, significantly higher than the Middlesbrough average. This statistic highlights the importance of getting a thorough structural assessment before purchasing. Our inspectors are familiar with the common defects affecting local properties, including damp penetration, timber decay, roof deterioration, and general wear and tear that often affects older terraced housing.

The housing stock in Gresham predominantly consists of traditional brick-built terraced properties, many of which were constructed before 1919. These older properties often feature solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls, which can present specific issues including damp ingress and reduced thermal efficiency. Our Level 3 surveys examine these construction methods in detail, identifying issues that might not be visible during a casual viewing. The area has also seen significant private rental growth, with owner-occupancy dropping from 78% in 1991 to around 32% by 2011, indicating a high proportion of rental properties that may have received less maintenance than owner-occupied homes.

Additionally, Gresham's proximity to Teesside University means many properties have been converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) for student accommodation. These conversions can introduce additional structural considerations, including altered floor plans, added plumbing and electrical systems, and increased wear on shared areas. Our surveyors assess these modifications thoroughly, ensuring you understand any impact on the property's structural integrity. With major regeneration projects bringing new developments to the area, including the Union Village project delivering 145 new affordable homes, Gresham offers a mix of old and new stock that requires expert assessment.

The ongoing Middlesbrough Development Corporation proposals represent a significant investment in the Gresham area, with plans for a 201-bed hotel, 238 build-to-rent apartments, and 459 student accommodation bedspaces in the first phase alone. This £194 million investment will transform parts of the neighbourhood, and our surveyors can help you understand how nearby regeneration might affect your specific property. purchasing near the proposed development sites or in established residential streets, we provide the local knowledge that helps you make a confident decision.

Our inspectors frequently identify several recurring issues when surveying properties in Gresham. Dampness is one of the most common problems, affecting both older solid-wall constructions and properties with compromised damp-proof courses. The traditional brickwork found throughout Gresham's terraced housing can allow moisture penetration, particularly in north-facing walls or areas with damaged pointing. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify both obvious signs of damp and underlying issues that might not be apparent to untrained observers. We check wall surfaces for staining, measure moisture levels, and assess the effectiveness of any existing damp-proof treatment.

Timber decay represents another significant concern in the area, with many older properties featuring original wooden joists, rafters, and floorboards that may have been affected by woodworm or wet rot over the decades. Our Level 3 Survey includes careful examination of all accessible timber elements, assessing their condition and identifying any areas requiring specialist treatment or structural reinforcement. We probe wood where accessible to check for softness indicating decay, and we identify signs of past infestation even where no active insects are present. This thorough approach ensures you know the true condition of structural timber before committing to purchase.

Roof issues are also commonly identified in Gresham property surveys, with missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated flashing, and inadequate ventilation all frequently noted. The pitched roofs on traditional terraced properties often show age-related wear, and our inspectors carefully examine tiles, ridge tiles, and pointing for signs of movement or deterioration. We also check gutter and downpipe condition, as blocked or damaged drainage can cause water penetration that leads to internal damp problems. With terraced properties showing a 4.8% price increase over the past year, understanding the true condition of your potential investment has never been more important.

The high proportion of properties converted to rental accommodation or student housing means our inspectors often find evidence of modifications that may not meet current building regulations. These can include removed internal walls, added bathrooms or kitchens, and electrical installations that would benefit from inspection by qualified electricians. Our survey reports highlight these concerns clearly, ensuring you have full information about the property's condition before completing your purchase. We note any works that appear to require building regulation approval but may not have received it, as this could affect your insurance or future saleability.