RICS Level 3 Building Survey in More

A RICS Level 3 Survey represents the most comprehensive inspection option available for residential properties in England. Our inspectors examine the entire visible structure of the building, including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and integral fixtures. We assess the condition of each element and identify any defects, whether they are minor cosmetic issues or major structural concerns that could affect the safety or value of the property. This level of detail is particularly important in More, where many properties are centuries old and may have undergone numerous alterations over the years.

For properties in More and the wider SY7 postcode area, our surveyors pay particular attention to issues common in rural Shropshire housing stock. This includes assessing timber-framed construction found in many historic properties, evaluating the condition of traditional slate and tile roofing, and checking for signs of damp or structural movement that frequently affect older buildings in this region. We also examine the specific challenges posed by solid wall construction, which is prevalent in older properties and lacks the cavity insulation found in modern builds. Our surveyors are trained to identify defects that might be hidden from view but could develop into significant problems over time.

The survey report we produce goes beyond a simple checklist. We provide detailed explanations of each defect discovered, including its cause, implications for the property, and recommended remedial actions. Where appropriate, we also advise on further specialist investigations that may be necessary, such as structural engineer's assessments or damp-proofing specialist evaluations. This comprehensive approach ensures you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your potential purchase in More.

• Full structural inspection of all visible elements
• Detailed defect analysis with remediation advice
• Assessment of roofing, walls, floors, and foundations
• Evaluation of damp, rot, and timber defects
• Checking of windows, doors, and joinery
• Review of plumbing and electrical visually
• Advice on urgent repairs and maintenance
• Market value assessment and insurance reinstatements

More sits within the picturesque landscape of south Shropshire, close to the borderlands between England and Wales. The village and its surrounding area feature a variety of property types that reflect the region's rich architectural heritage. Many homes in this part of Shropshire were constructed using local materials, including red brick, sandstone, and timber framing, which were readily available from nearby quarries and woodlands. The geology of this area, while varied, includes areas with superficial deposits such as clay, sand, and gravel that can contribute to ground movement in some locations, making structural assessment particularly important.

The housing stock in the More area includes substantial detached farmhouses dating back centuries, Victorian and Edwardian terraced cottages in the village centre, and more recent developments built during the latter half of the twentieth century. Each construction era brings its own characteristic defects and maintenance requirements. Period properties may exhibit signs of traditional building techniques that, while historically authentic, can present challenges for modern living standards and energy efficiency. Many older properties in the area also lack modern damp-proof courses, which can lead to damp penetration issues given the relatively high annual rainfall that this part of Shropshire experiences compared to more urban areas.

Shropshire has experienced a 4.3% increase in property values over the past year, with the average house price now standing at approximately £281,000 according to Plumplot data for 2025. This upward trend reflects strong demand for properties in the county's rural areas, particularly from buyers seeking the peaceful lifestyle that villages like More can offer. However, that transaction volumes have dropped by approximately 19.8% compared to the previous year, with around 5,200 properties sold in the county. This means buyers may have slightly more negotiating power than in previous years, making it even more important to understand the true condition of any property you are considering purchasing.

• Rural village location in South Shropshire
• Mix of historic and modern properties
• Traditional construction materials
• Strong local character and heritage
• Growing property market values
• Proximity to market towns of Ludlow and Church Stretton

Our experience surveying properties throughout the More area and broader Shropshire region has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp penetration represents one of the most frequently detected problems, particularly in older properties with solid wall construction that lacks modern damp-proof courses. The rural setting of More, with its relatively high annual rainfall compared to more urban areas, means that properties are regularly exposed to sustained wet weather conditions. We often find that properties located near watercourses, including tributaries of the River Clun and River Teme, may be particularly susceptible to damp-related issues due to higher ground moisture levels.

Timber defects also feature prominently in our survey findings for the area. This includes both wet rot and dry rot affecting window frames, door frames, and structural timbers, as well as woodworm infestation in properties of certain ages. Many properties in More feature traditional timber-framed construction or include significant timber elements that require careful inspection. Our surveyors are trained to identify the early signs of timber decay that might not be apparent to untrained observers. We pay particular attention to exposed timber frames, junction points where timber meets masonry, and any areas where water penetration could lead to rot over time.

Roof conditions consistently feature in our survey reports for the area. Traditional slate and tile roofs on older properties may have undergone partial repairs over the years using mismatched materials, while the supporting rafters and battens may show signs of age-related wear. Flat roof sections, where present, often require attention due to their limited lifespan compared to pitched roofing. Given that some parts of Shropshire have historical mining activity, we also check for any signs of structural movement that might be related to ground conditions, though specific mining reports would be needed for definitive assessment. Our inspectors thoroughly examine all accessible roof spaces and report on the current condition and expected remaining lifespan of roofing materials.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Roof tile or slate damage
• Structural movement and cracking
• Defective leadwork and flashing
• Poor or missing guttering
• Outdated electrical installations
• Inadequate insulation

When you receive your RICS Level 3 Survey report for your More property, you will notice it follows a clear, logical structure designed to help you understand the findings easily. The report begins with an executive summary that highlights the most important issues discovered during the inspection, followed by detailed sections covering each major element of the property from roof to foundations. Each defect is described in plain language, explaining what the issue is, what has caused it, and what implications it may have for the property and its occupants.

We include photographs throughout the report to illustrate key defects and help you visualise the issues being described. The report also provides priority ratings for recommended remedial work, categorising issues as urgent, important, or desirable. This helps you plan and budget for any work that may be needed both now and in the future. For properties in More that may be located in flood risk areas or near watercourses, we provide specific advice on flood resilience and any necessary protective measures that should be considered.

One of the most valuable aspects of the RICS Level 3 Survey is the market value assessment and insurance reinstatement figure we include. This information is particularly useful for mortgage purposes and for ensuring you have adequate buildings insurance coverage. The reinstatement figure reflects the cost of rebuilding the property from scratch, which may be significantly different from the market value, especially for older properties with traditional construction methods that could require specialist repair techniques.