RICS Level 2 Survey in BN13 2 Worthing

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's accessible areas. The surveyor examines the roof structure, walls, floors, doors, and windows, along with the condition of the kitchen, bathroom, and other sanitary installations. We assess the property's overall condition and identify any defects that could affect its value or require urgent attention. The report uses a clear traffic light system to highlight issues - red for serious defects requiring urgent attention, amber for items needing future repair, and green for areas in satisfactory condition.

In the BN13 2 area, many properties were constructed during the mid-century period between 1936 and 1979, meaning our surveyors frequently assess homes with original features that may show signs of age-related wear. We check for common issues in properties of this age, including roof condition, damp penetration, and the integrity of window frames. The survey also includes a market valuation if you request this as an additional service, helping you understand whether the asking price reflects the property's true worth in the current market.

Our Level 2 survey reports cover the main building, garage, and other permanent structures within the property boundaries. We inspect both the interior and exterior accessible areas, looking for signs of structural movement, timber defects, and any potential issues with the property's fabric. Each report includes clear recommendations for further investigations if our surveyor identifies any areas of concern that require specialist assessment. For example, if we notice signs of subsidence or significant structural movement, we'll recommend a structural engineer's assessment before you proceed with the purchase.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Kitchen and bathroom fittings
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and gas safety
• Exterior finishes
• Garages and outbuildings

With over 65% of properties in the BN13 2 postcode sector now exceeding 50 years of age, a RICS Level 2 survey is particularly valuable for buyers in this area. These mid-century homes were built to different standards than today's regulations require, and many original features are now reaching the end of their natural serviceable life. We've found that properties in Salvington and High Salvington frequently present with roofing that hasn't been replaced since the property was first constructed, meaning tiles, flashing, and underfelt may be deteriorating.

Worthing's coastal location means properties in the BN13 area are exposed to moisture-laden air and salt spray, which can accelerate the degradation of external render, timber window frames, and fence posts. Our surveyors know to pay particular attention to these elements when inspecting homes in this area. We've seen numerous properties where render has cracked and allowed damp penetration, or where timber windows have rotted at the bottom rails due to prolonged exposure to coastal weather conditions.

The underlying geology in parts of West Sussex includes clay soils that can cause shrink-swell movement, particularly during periods of drought or heavy rainfall. While BN13 2 isn't in a high-risk subsidence zone, our surveyors remain vigilant for signs of structural movement, cracking, or differential settlement that might indicate foundation issues. We check interior and exterior walls for characteristic patterns of movement and note any concerns in our report.

• Properties over 50 years old with aging features
• Coastal weather exposure affecting external elements
• Clay soil shrink-swell potential
• Original roofing nearing end of life
• Outdated electrical and heating systems

Properties throughout the BN13 2 postcode sector predominantly feature traditional brick and block construction with pitched, tiled roofs - typical of the mid-century builds that dominate this area. We understand these construction methods intimately, which means we know exactly where to look for potential defects. The cavity wall construction used in most homes built between 1936 and 1979 generally provides good thermal performance, but we check that the cavity hasn't been filled with insulation that might have settled or created bridging that leads to damp issues.

Many homes in the High Salvington area feature detached designs with integral garages, a popular layout during the mid-century building boom. These properties often have original concrete tile roofs that may have become brittle over decades of exposure to the elements. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing the condition of these concrete tiles, checking for cracking, surface erosion, and the integrity of ridge tiles and mortar pointing.

The semi-detached properties common throughout BN13 2 were typically built with shared walls, meaning our surveyors pay attention to the condition of these dividing structures. We check for signs of damp penetration through shared walls, inspect the condition of any fire separation elements, and assess the overall structural integrity of the party wall arrangements. This is particularly important for buyers considering properties adjacent to older extensions or alterations.

• Traditional brick and cavity wall construction
• Pitched tiled roofs (concrete and clay)
• Concrete floor slabs typical of the period
• Original timber windows and doors
• Gas-fired central heating systems

Our experience surveying properties throughout the BN13 2 postcode sector means we're familiar with the typical issues affecting homes in this area. Properties built during the mid-century period often present with original roofing that may be reaching the end of its serviceable life. We frequently identify tiles that have shifted, deteriorated mortar in chimneys, and flashing that requires attention. The pitched tiled roofs common in this area benefit from our surveyors' expertise in identifying potential leak sources and structural concerns.

Given Worthing's proximity to the coast, properties in the BN13 area can experience issues related to moisture and salt air exposure. Our surveyors pay particular attention to external render condition, window frames, and timber elements that may be susceptible to rot in this environment. We also assess the condition of any boundary walls or fences, which can be affected by coastal weather conditions over time. Properties with timber-clad extensions or decorative timber features require especially careful inspection.

Many homes in the BN13 2 area will have been fitted with gas heating systems and electrical installations that date from different periods of the property's history. While our survey is visual and non-invasive, we note the apparent age and condition of these installations and recommend they be inspected by qualified gas and electrical engineers before completion. This helps you budget for any necessary updates or safety certificates required after purchase.

We've also identified instances of structural movement in some properties, typically manifesting as cracking in internal plasterwork or external brickwork. While usually not serious, these patterns require documentation and may warrant a structural engineer's opinion. Our reports clearly document any such findings and provide appropriate recommendations, ensuring you're fully informed before committing to the purchase.