RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Tunstall

The Tunstall property market has seen steady growth, with prices increasing by approximately 3% over the past year. With terraced properties averaging around £98,967 and semi-detached homes at approximately £149,619, purchasing a property represents a substantial investment. A RICS Level 3 Survey provides you with the detailed information needed to make an informed decision and negotiate with confidence if issues are identified. This level of survey is particularly valuable for older properties, those in need of renovation, or homes where you suspect potential structural concerns.

Our inspectors in the Tunstall area bring years of experience with the local housing stock. They understand how properties in this part of Staffordshire have been constructed and can identify issues that may not be apparent to an untrained eye. The detailed report includes photographs of any defects found, clear explanations of their significance, and prioritised recommendations for repairs and maintenance. We know that many homes in Tunstall were built during periods when building regulations were less stringent than today, and this knowledge shapes how we approach each inspection.

Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, which only confirms the property is worth the loan amount, a Level 3 Survey examines the actual condition of the building. This is particularly important in Tunstall where many properties date from the industrial era and may have hidden issues arising from decades of occupation and varying standards of maintenance. Our inspectors will check for signs of movement, damp penetration, timber decay, and structural weaknesses that could cost thousands to put right.

We also understand the local geology and how it affects properties in the Tunstall area. The underlying clay soils in parts of this region can cause foundation movement during dry spells, leading to structural cracks that need professional assessment. Our inspectors are trained to identify the signs of such movement and to determine whether it represents an ongoing issue or historic damage that has been stabilised.

• Thorough inspection of all accessible areas
• Detailed defect analysis with photos
• Prioritised repair recommendations
• Market valuation based on condition
• Advice on urgent and future repairs

The Level 3 Survey is designed to provide a complete picture of a property's condition. Our inspectors examine the main structural elements including foundations, walls, floors, and the roof structure. They also assess the condition of joinery, inspect for damp and timber decay, and evaluate the condition of windows, doors, and fittings. The report covers all accessible parts of the property and provides detailed commentary on any defects found, explaining what they are, why they occurred, and what repair work might be required.

For properties in Tunstall, our inspectors pay particular attention to common issues found in the local housing stock. This includes checking for signs of movement or subsidence, assessing the condition of older roofing materials, and examining the condition of walls in properties that may have been subject to past flooding or damp issues. The report includes a market valuation section that reflects the property's value based on its current condition, which can be invaluable when renegotiating the purchase price.

Each report includes a clear summary of the findings, highlighting any urgent defects that require immediate attention and any issues that may need future maintenance. This allows you to plan for both immediate costs and long-term property maintenance. The survey also includes an assessment of the property's energy efficiency and any significant environmental hazards where visible.

We also check the condition of services at the property, including plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems. While we are not electricians or plumbers, our inspectors will note any visible defects or concerns that should be checked by a qualified specialist. This can be particularly valuable in older properties where wiring or pipework may not meet current regulations.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout Tunstall and the surrounding ST6 area, we have identified several issues that frequently appear in local homes. Many properties in this area were built during the Victorian and Edwardian periods, meaning they often feature solid brick walls rather than the cavity walls found in more modern construction. These solid walls can be more susceptible to damp penetration, particularly if the original external render or pointing has deteriorated over time.

Roofing is another area where we commonly find issues in Tunstall properties. Many older homes still have their original roof coverings, which may have reached the end of their serviceable life. We check for missing or damaged tiles, signs of past leaks, and the condition of roof valleys and flashings. In some properties, we find that original slate roofs have been covered with modern concrete tiles, which can create structural issues due to the additional weight.

Foundation and subsidence concerns are also something we assess carefully in the Tunstall area. Properties built on clay soils can experience movement as the ground shrinks and swells with changes in moisture content. Our inspectors are trained to identify the signs of such movement, including cracks in walls, doors and windows that stick, and uneven floors. We will advise you on whether any movement appears to be active and what, if any, remedial work might be needed.

We also pay attention to the condition of chimneys, which are a common feature on period properties in Tunstall. Many chimneys have not been maintained and may have damaged flues, missing crowns, or deteriorating brickwork that could lead to water penetration or even structural failure. Our report will flag any concerns with chimney stacks and recommend appropriate specialist inspections where necessary.