RICS Level 2 Home Survey in ST11

A RICS Level 2 survey suits homes in reasonable condition, usually built after 1900. In ST11 that covers most of what we see, from post-war semis in established residential streets to newer builds. We inspect all accessible parts visually, roof space where safe access allows, exterior walls, windows and doors, plus internal fixtures.

We look closely at walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows, then check for damp, rot, structural movement and other defects that often slip past an untrained eye. Across Staffordshire, our inspectors know the brick-built homes that make up much of the local stock.

After the inspection, you receive our RICS Home Survey report with a clear condition rating system. The codes are simple, 1 for urgent issues needing immediate attention, 2 for matters needing future attention, and 3 for points that call for further investigation. We also add maintenance advice and, where needed, recommendations for specialist follow-up.

In ST11 we often find the same trouble spots, roof coverings on taller properties, damp proof courses in older homes, and extensions that have not stood the test of time. Foundations matter too, especially on the clay soils common across this part of Staffordshire.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp proof course and membranes
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical fixtures
• Chimneys and flues
• Garages and outbuildings

ST11 includes a broad mix of homes, each with its own quirks. Semi-detached houses make up much of the sold stock, offering families decent value, but they can bring shared-wall and foundation issues. Our surveyors are used to movement in semi-detached properties and problems with shared drainage.

Some of the oldest homes in ST11 are rare period properties from the 16th and 17th centuries, and they call for extra care. Historic buildings can bring outdated electrical systems, original timber frames and traditional construction methods that sit well outside modern standards. We will pick out any concerns and suggest specialist inspections where they make sense.

In and around the conservation areas within ST11, there may be extra points to think about. A Level 2 survey is not a specialist conservation report, but we will note any visible damage to the property's character, along with alterations that could need listed building consent. If you are buying a period home, we can point you towards further specialist assessment where needed.

ST11 also has a spread of post-war properties built between 1945 and 1980, plus newer homes from the 1980s onwards. Each era tends to come with its own defects, and our surveyors know the patterns well. Post-war houses may have solid concrete floors or original windows needing attention, while 1970s and 1980s properties can have cavity wall insulation issues or early double glazing installations.

• Period properties (pre-1919)
• Post-war semis and terraces
• New build properties
• Properties in or near conservation areas

During surveys in ST11, damp penetration keeps cropping up. Older homes are the usual culprits, especially where the original damp proof course has failed or been bridged over time. We use moisture meters and thermal imaging equipment to find problems that are not obvious at first glance.

Roofs are another regular concern, particularly where old tile or slate coverings are still in place. Slipped tiles, damaged flashing and deteriorating ridge tiles can all let in water if they are left alone. Around Blythe Bridge and the neighbouring villages, roof structure deserves close attention because of the local weather patterns and exposure levels.

Many ST11 properties have been extended over the years, and those additions often reveal plenty during inspection. We check the junction between the original house and the extension for movement, water penetration and poor construction. Electrical safety matters too, and we often come across outdated consumer units, insufficient earthing or older wiring that may no longer meet current regulations.

Because parts of Staffordshire sit on clay soil, we pay close attention to foundation movement and signs of subsidence. Serious structural problems are fairly rare, but our surveyors are trained to spot early indicators such as cracking to internal walls, doors and windows that stick, and gaps around window frames. Those findings can be useful when it comes to negotiating the price or pressing for remedial works before completion.