RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Walden Stubbs

The RICS Level 3 Building Survey is designed for all property types but is particularly valuable in Walden Stubbs where the housing stock includes period properties, listed buildings, and older constructions. Our inspectors assess the structural integrity of the property, examining walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and foundations in detail. Unlike a basic valuation, this survey identifies defects, explains their causes, and recommends appropriate repairs. Our team has extensive experience with the traditional building methods found throughout North Yorkshire, including Magnesian limestone rubble construction and stone slate roofing.

For properties near the River Went, our surveyors pay particular attention to flood damage indicators, damp penetration, and drainage systems. The village experienced severe flooding in June 2007 when river levels reached 2.20m, making flood resilience a key consideration for properties in low-lying areas. Our report will highlight any signs of previous water damage and assess the effectiveness of existing damp-proof courses. We measure flood risk by checking floor levels, reviewing any existing flood resistance measures, and documenting evidence of previous water ingress that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

The survey also covers timber elements, checking for rot, woodworm infestation, and structural weakness in joists and beams. Given the agricultural nature of the area, with Friendship Estates and other farms nearby, properties may have been subject to past uses that affected their condition. Our detailed report typically runs to 30-40 pages, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision or negotiate repairs with the seller. The report includes clear condition ratings that make it easy to prioritse which issues require immediate attention versus those that can be monitored over time.

We also assess the condition of chimneys and flues, which is particularly important in period properties where original fireplaces may still be in use or have been converted. Our inspection covers electrical and gas safety observations, plumbing and drainage systems, and the condition of windows and doors. Each element is photographed and documented with specific recommendations for maintenance or repair.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Chimneys and flues
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Timber condition (rot, beetle)
• Drainage and plumbing
• Electrical and gas safety
• Windows and doors

The village of Walden Stubbs has a population of around 200 residents and falls within the DN6 postcode area. Recent property sales in the village include a three-bedroom semi-detached house at Dovecote House that sold for £340,000 in December 2023, and a two-bedroom semi-detached cottage that sold for £180,000 in August 2022. A terraced property at The Stables sold for £234,000 in 2017, while Pinfold Cottage, a four-bedroom detached property, achieved £300,000 in 2016. These figures demonstrate the premium that Walden Stubbs commands due to its rural character and proximity to Doncaster.

The area's mining heritage should also be considered. While Walden Stubbs itself is not known for active mining, the broader Hemsworth district has a mining history, and properties in former mining areas may have underlying stability concerns. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of mining subsidence or ground movement that could affect the property's long-term structural integrity. We examine walls for characteristic cracking patterns, check floor levels for unevenness, and assess the surrounding land for evidence of past mining activity.

Properties constructed before 1900, such as those dating to the 17th century like Stubbs Hall, present particular challenges. These buildings may have been constructed using non-standard methods, with materials that have deteriorated over centuries. A Level 3 survey is strongly recommended for any pre-1900 property in Walden Stubbs, as the report will identify issues specific to historic buildings and flag any work that may require listed building consent. The survey will also advise on the suitability of any existing renovations or extensions.

North Yorkshire geology can present specific challenges including gypsum dissolution and peat compression in certain areas. While Walden Stubbs is not specifically identified as a high-risk zone, the broader regional context means our surveyors pay close attention to ground conditions, drainage, and any signs of subsidence or heave. Properties on clay soils may be subject to seasonal movement, and our report will flag any indicators of this type of ground behaviour.

Flood risk is a significant consideration for property buyers in Walden Stubbs due to the village's proximity to the River Went. The river level at Walden Stubbs normally ranges between 0.16m and 1.05m, with low-lying land flooding possible above 1.10m. The highest level ever recorded at the Walden Stubbs monitoring station was 2.20m on 26 June 2007, which caused severe flooding throughout the village and surrounding area.

Our RICS Level 3 Survey includes detailed assessment of flood risk indicators. The surveyor will check for signs of previous water damage at lower levels, assess the condition of damp-proof courses, and evaluate the effectiveness of any existing drainage systems. We measure floor levels relative to external ground levels and note the presence of any flood resilience measures.

If the property is located in a flood risk area, our report will clearly flag this and provide recommendations for further investigation. This may include consulting the Environment Agency flood maps, reviewing any existing flood defence measures, and considering the installation of property-level flood protection. The report will also advise on insurance implications and potential future flood resilience improvements.