RICS Level 2 Survey in Bilsington

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a detailed assessment of the property's condition, focusing on the main structural elements and any visible defects. We inspect the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and important systems like plumbing and electrical work where accessible. The survey includes a thorough examination of both the interior and exterior of the property, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what you are buying. Our inspectors examine every accessible area, from the loft space to the foundations, ensuring nothing significant is overlooked.

In Bilsington, where many properties feature traditional construction methods such as solid walls, white weatherboarding, and original peg tile or slate roofing, our surveyors know exactly what to look for. We check for common issues in older properties, including dampness, timber defects, and the condition of historic features. The survey also covers the property's exposure to environmental risks, which is particularly relevant given Bilsington's position on clay hills near the Royal Military Canal. We understand that properties in this area may haveragstone rubble walls with ashlar dressings, a construction method seen in significant local buildings like Bilsington Priory, and we know how to assess these traditional materials properly.

After the inspection, you will receive a detailed report that clearly explains our findings using traffic light ratings. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that need negotiating with the seller, and red flags serious issues that may affect the property's value or safety. We include practical guidance on what to do next, whether that means requesting repairs, adjusting your offer, or seeking specialist advice for more complex problems. The report also includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost estimate, which are essential for mortgage purposes and insurance planning.

Our survey service covers all key property elements systematically, ensuring nothing is missed during the inspection process.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, dampness, and structural condition
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors and staircases
• Plumbing and electrical accessible systems
• Boundaries, outbuildings, and grounds
• Conservation area considerations

Bilsington's position on clay geology presents specific challenges for property owners. The clay soil beneath much of the village can expand and contract with changes in moisture content, potentially leading to subsidence or movement in foundations. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying signs of this type of movement, including cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors or windows that no longer close properly. We pay particular attention to properties with shallow foundations or those with trees planted close to the building, as these are particularly vulnerable to clay-related subsidence. Properties near the Royal Military Canal and lower-lying areas may have additional foundation considerations due to the proximity to marshland.

The village's proximity to the Royal Military Canal and Romney Marsh means that flood risk is a consideration for some properties, especially those in lower-lying areas near the canal. We assess the property's flood risk exposure and check for signs of previous water damage or dampness that might indicate a problem. Our inspection also covers drainage systems, which is important given the clay soil's relatively poor drainage characteristics. We examine guttering and downpipes carefully, as issues with these can lead to penetrating damp, a common problem in older Bilsington properties.

Many properties in Bilsington feature traditional construction methods that predate modern building regulations. Solid walls, original timber frames, and historic roofing materials all require specialist knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors understand these construction methods and can identify issues such as deteriorating mortar in ragstone rubble walls, damaged peg tiles, or rot in original timber elements. We also check for any alterations or extensions that may have been carried out over the years, ensuring they were done properly and do not compromise the property's structural integrity. Properties like the 17th-century Lanary Barn or historic cottages throughout the village require careful assessment of their traditional building materials.

The age of much of Bilsington's housing stock means that outdated electrical systems and plumbing are common concerns. Properties built before modern standards may still have original wiring or lead pipework, which represents both a safety hazard and a potential expense for buyers. Our survey highlights these issues clearly so you can factor them into your purchasing decision and budget for necessary upgrades. We also check for adequate insulation, as many older properties lack the thermal efficiency expected in modern homes, which can affect both comfort and ongoing energy costs.

Our local experience means we understand the specific issues affecting Bilsington properties, from the distinctive white weatherboarding seen on many cottages to the ragstone construction of older buildings. We have surveyed properties throughout the village, including the council-built Cosway Cottages from the 1940s and 1950s, modern bungalows, and 1960s chalet bungalows. This local knowledge enables us to provide accurate, relevant advice that you can trust.