RICS Level 2 Home Survey in Arundel

Arundel's unique character as a historic market town means many properties require careful inspection before purchase. The town features a designated Conservation Area with numerous Listed Buildings, alongside modern developments that have transformed the housing market in recent years. With the median construction year of 1981, a significant proportion of homes in the area are now over 40 years old, meaning they have likely developed some of the common issues affecting older properties in West Sussex. Our Level 2 survey provides the detailed assessment you need buying a charming Victorian terrace or a newly constructed family home.

The geology of the Arundel area presents specific considerations for buyers. Located in South East England, the region features clay-rich soils that are susceptible to shrink-swell behaviour, particularly during periods of drought or heavy rainfall. This ground movement can affect foundations, especially in properties built before modern building regulations came into effect. Our surveyors understand these local ground conditions and know what to look for when assessing potential subsidence or movement, checking for tell-tale signs like diagonal cracks in walls, distorted door frames, and gaps around skirting boards that might indicate foundation problems.

Properties in Arundel also face flood risk from the River Arun, which is tidally dominated and flows through the town. The Environment Agency has identified areas at risk, particularly near River Road and Warningcamp, and has implemented a tidal defence scheme to protect approximately 130 properties. Our Level 2 survey includes assessment of flood risk and can identify signs of previous water damage or dampness that might not be apparent during a casual viewing. Given that Arundel's population of approximately 3,500 residents includes many living in properties with long-term flood risk, understanding these environmental factors is crucial for any prospective buyer.

The combination of historic construction methods and modern developments means Arundel properties present diverse inspection challenges. From solid-walled Victorian properties lacking cavity insulation to contemporary homes with complex roof designs, our surveyors have the expertise to assess all property types. We provide you with a comprehensive report that highlights defects, explains their implications, and prioritises any urgent repairs needed to protect your investment in this desirable West Sussex town.

• Flood risk assessment
• Foundation and subsidence checks
• Damp and timber condition
• Roof and structural inspection
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Energy efficiency advice

The Arundel housing market has seen significant new development in recent years, with the Arundel Gate development on Ford Road bringing 90 new homes to the area. This prestigious development by Esquire Developments Ltd includes properties ranging from £329,999 for a two-bedroom home to £1,250,000 for a four-bedroom detached showhome. The development also includes 20 social rented homes and 7 shared ownership properties, providing housing options across the price spectrum. While new builds come with the protection of NHBC warranty, a Level 2 survey can still identify snagging issues and any defects that may have emerged since construction.

Even in recently constructed properties, our surveyors check for common issues such as inadequate insulation in roof spaces, poorly fitted windows, cracks in plasterwork due to settlement, and any signs of water penetration. The Arundel Gate development emphasises traditional design with modern sustainable living, but even with contemporary construction methods, defects can occur. Our survey provides you with documented evidence to pass to the developer if issues are found, giving you leverage to request repairs under the NHBC warranty scheme.

For properties in nearby Walberton at the Silvan Meadows development by David Wilson Homes, or in neighbouring villages like Yapton and Angmering, our surveyors are familiar with the construction techniques used by national house builders. We can identify any recurring issues specific to these developments and ensure your investment is sound. buying in Arundel itself or the surrounding villages in the BN18 area, we have the local knowledge to provide a thorough and accurate assessment.

Arundel's conservation area encompasses much of the town centre, including properties around the castle and along the historic high street. These older buildings often feature traditional construction methods and materials that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors understand the unique characteristics of historic West Sussex properties, including the use of local stone, flint, and traditional brickwork. Many properties in the conservation area date back to the Georgian and Victorian periods, featuring original sash windows, decorative plasterwork, and traditional roofing materials like slate and clay tiles that require careful inspection.

If you're purchasing a Listed Building in Arundel, you should be aware that standard surveys may not fully capture the complexities of historic property ownership. Listed Building Consent is required for many alterations, and special considerations apply to maintenance and repair. While a Level 2 survey provides valuable information, we may recommend a RICS Level 3 Building Survey for particularly complex or historically significant properties. Our team can advise you on the most appropriate survey type based on the specific property and guide you on the additional considerations that come with owning a heritage asset in a conservation area.

The shrink-swell risk from clay soils affects many older properties in the Arundel area, particularly those with shallow foundations or trees nearby. Our surveyors inspect for signs of foundation movement, including cracking patterns in walls, door and window frame distortion, and gaps around skirting boards. Understanding these issues before purchase allows you to negotiate appropriate repairs or price adjustments with the seller. Given that Arundel sits in the South East England region with particularly clay-rich soils, this is one of the most important aspects of any property assessment in the area.

The town also contains several Scheduled Ancient Monuments, including the Maison Dieu and earthworks at Madehurst and Dalesdown Wood, indicating the rich archaeological heritage of the area. While these don't directly affect property surveys, they do highlight the historical significance of the Arundel area and why many properties in and around the town have protected status that affects what owners can and cannot do to their buildings.