Midlands Archives - Fourth Wall

The Architecture and History of Cheltenham: Styles, Costs, Comparisons, and Surveying Insights

June 16, 2025 by Pete Nichols

Cheltenham, known as the cultural heart of the Cotswolds, is famed for its stunning Regency architecture, rich heritage, and meticulous town planning. Whether you’re a property buyer, architecture enthusiast, or a homeowner planning a restoration, understanding the architectural styles of Cheltenham, and their historical and structural implications, is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we explore … Read more

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Birmingham’s Property Market

June 13, 2025 by Pete Nichols

Buying your first home is a major milestone and if you’re considering entering the Birmingham property market, you’re not alone. As one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities, Birmingham offers excellent value, strong rental yields, and a rich mix of heritage and regeneration zones. But navigating the local market as a first-time buyer in Birmingham can … Read more

Chemical Damp Treatments: When Are They Really Necessary?

June 19, 2025June 9, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

view of chemical damp proofing treatment in Sheffield

Chemical damp-proofing treatments are widely marketed as quick, affordable fixes for moisture problems in buildings—particularly rising damp. But in truth, they are frequently oversold, poorly applied, and often unnecessary, especially in older or traditionally built properties. In this article, we cut through the sales pitch to explore when chemical damp treatments are truly justified, how … Read more

Why ‘Rising Damp’ Is a Myth in Old Buildings—and What You Should Be Doing Instead

June 9, 2025 by Joshua Weston BSc (Hons) MRICS

“Rising damp” is one of the most misused and misunderstood terms in the world of property care and building pathology, especially when it comes to older buildings. Many homeowners, property buyers, and even some less experienced surveyors are led to believe it’s a common and inevitable defect. But is it really? As a Chartered Surveyor, … Read more

Architecture and History of Birmingham’s Most Desirable Homes | Residential Survey Insights

May 29, 2025May 29, 2025 by Pete Nichols

Birmingham is not only the UK’s second city; it’s also home to some of the most fascinating architectural stories in the country. From Victorian opulence to 20th-century garden suburbs, the city’s wealthiest areas offer a tapestry of styles, each with distinct construction methods and maintenance needs. As a chartered building surveyor specialising in residential surveys, … Read more