Detailed property inspections by RICS chartered surveyors








Our team of RICS chartered surveyors provides comprehensive Level 2 Home Surveys throughout CT20 and the surrounding Folkestone area. Whether you are purchasing a Victorian terrace in the town centre, a modern apartment near the harbour, or a period property in Sandgate, our experienced inspectors deliver detailed assessments that help you understand exactly what you are buying.
The RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, strikes an excellent balance between thoroughness and accessibility. We inspect all accessible areas of the property, from the roof space to the foundation walls, and provide you with a clear, jargon-free report that highlights any issues, from minor defects to serious structural concerns. Our local knowledge of Folkestone properties means we understand the specific challenges that affect homes in this coastal area.

£303,878
Average House Price
1,450+
Properties Sold (Last Year)
Terraced, Detached, Flats
Property Types
Victorian to New Build
Typical Age
Folkestone's housing stock presents a fascinating mix of architectural styles that our surveyors encounter regularly. The town centre features numerous Victorian and Edwardian terraces, many of which retain their original features but may have hidden issues arising from age and previous alterations. Moving towards the seafront, you will find period properties that have been exposed to coastal weather conditions for decades, while newer developments around the harbour area offer modern construction with their own considerations.
Our Level 2 Survey specifically addresses the concerns that affect Folkestone property buyers. The survey includes a thorough visual inspection of the property's condition, assessing the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and essential services. We examine both the interior and exterior, gaining access to areas such as the roof space, sub-floor voids, and outbuildings where it is safe and practical to do so. The resulting report provides a clear red, amber, or green rating for each major element of the property, making it easy to identify which issues require immediate attention.
One of the key advantages of the Level 2 Survey is its focus on providing practical, actionable advice. Rather than simply listing defects, our inspectors explain the implications of their findings and recommend appropriate next steps. If we identify a potential problem with the roof structure of a Victorian property in CT20, we will explain what this means for the property's long-term integrity and suggest whether you should seek specialist advice before proceeding with your purchase.
Source: Zoopla/Rightmove property data 2024
Enter your property postcode CT20 and select the RICS Level 2 Survey option. Our system instantly matches your request with surveyors operating in the Folkestone area.
Select from available inspection dates that suit your timeline. Our chartered surveyors operate throughout CT20 and surrounding areas, often offering appointments within days of your booking.
Our surveyor visits your Folkestone property and conducts a comprehensive visual inspection. The inspection typically takes 1-2 hours depending on property size and complexity.
Your detailed RICS Level 2 report arrives within 3-5 working days of the inspection. The report includes condition ratings, photographs, and clear recommendations.
Properties in Folkestone face unique challenges due to their coastal location. Salt air can accelerate corrosion of metal elements, while the local geology can affect foundation conditions. Our surveyors are familiar with these local factors and include specific observations about coastal weathering in your report.
Our chartered surveyors bring extensive experience of Folkestone's diverse property stock. When inspecting a Victorian terrace in the town centre, we pay particular attention to the condition of original features such as sash windows, which often require restoration in properties of this age. We check for signs of damp penetration, which can be particularly problematic in older properties where original breathability has been compromised by modern retrofitting.
For properties near the seafront in CT20, our inspectors assess the impact of coastal exposure on building materials. Salt-laden air accelerates the deterioration of external render, timber windows, and metal fixings. We examine parapet walls and flat roof areas particularly carefully, as these elements are most exposed to wind-driven rain. Any signs of structural movement or previous repair work are documented in detail, as Folkestone's clay soil can cause foundation movement in periods of dry weather.
Modern developments in CT20, particularly those built in the past twenty years, receive equally thorough attention. While newer properties generally require less maintenance, our surveyors check for common issues in modern construction such as inadequate insulation, window installation defects, and issues with recently-installed building systems. We also verify that any guarantees or warranties remain valid and transferable.
Properties in areas like Sandgate and Hythe, which fall within the CT20 postcode, often include historic flint-walled buildings that require specialist assessment. Our surveyors understand the traditional construction methods used in these properties and can identify when walls may require repointing or other maintenance work. We also check the condition of boundary walls and outbuildings, which are a common feature of properties in these villages.
Even new build properties in Folkestone can benefit from a Level 2 Survey. While major structural defects are less likely, our inspectors identify minor defects, snagging issues, and any areas where the property falls below the standard you would expect from a new development. Many buyers are surprised at what our surveyors find in properties across CT20, from missing insulation to inadequate ventilation.
The inspection itself typically takes 1-2 hours for a standard property in the Folkestone area. Larger homes or those with complex layouts may require longer. We schedule ample time to ensure a thorough examination of all accessible areas, including the roof space, sub-floor voids, and outbuildings. You do not need to be present during the inspection, though many buyers in CT20 choose to meet the surveyor on-site.
If our Level 2 Survey identifies serious defects in a CT20 property, your report will clearly flag these with red ratings and provide specific recommendations. You may choose to request a quote for remedial work from contractors, renegotiate the purchase price with the seller, or in some cases, withdraw from the sale entirely. Your solicitor can use the survey report to negotiate terms with the vendor.
Yes, our Level 2 Surveyors regularly inspect leasehold flats throughout CT20. For leasehold properties, we assess the internal condition of the flat itself, but we also note any obvious issues with the building's common areas that may be visible during the inspection. It is worth noting that for leasehold properties, you should also obtain a copy of the lease and any management company accounts.
We typically offer inspection appointments within 3-5 working days of your booking, often sooner. Our surveyors maintain a regular presence throughout the Folkestone area and can usually accommodate urgent requests if your purchase timeline requires fast completion. Simply select your preferred date during the booking process.
The Level 2 Survey is designed for properties in reasonable condition and provides a clear, accessible assessment with traffic light ratings. The Level 3 Survey offers a more detailed investigation suitable for older properties, those with obvious defects, or buildings of non-traditional construction. For most properties in CT20, the Level 2 Survey provides the ideal balance of thoroughness and value.
Our Level 2 Survey includes a visual assessment for Japanese knotweed and other invasive plant species. While this is not a definitive survey, our surveyors are trained to identify signs of Japanese knotweed in gardens and adjacent areas. If we identify any concerns, we will recommend a specialist survey. This is particularly relevant in parts of Kent where Japanese knotweed has been reported.
The standard RICS Level 2 Survey does not include a market valuation. However, if you require a valuation for mortgage purposes, we can arrange this alongside your survey. Our team can provide a combined survey and valuation service that meets all your lender's requirements while saving you time and money.
From £600
Comprehensive structural survey for older, complex, or potentially problematic properties in the Folkestone area.
From £300
Official valuation required by mortgage lenders for properties in CT20 and surrounding Kent areas.
From £80
Energy Performance Certificate required for all property sales and rentals in England and Wales.
RICS Level 2 Surveys In London

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Plymouth

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Liverpool

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Glasgow

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Sheffield

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Edinburgh

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Coventry

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Bradford

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Manchester

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Birmingham

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Bristol

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Oxford

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Leicester

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Newcastle

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Leeds

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Southampton

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Cardiff

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Nottingham

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Norwich

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Brighton

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Derby

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Portsmouth

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Northampton

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Milton Keynes

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Bournemouth

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Bolton

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Swansea

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Swindon

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Peterborough

RICS Level 2 Surveys In Wolverhampton

Detailed property inspections by RICS chartered surveyors
Get A Quote & BookMost surveyors take 1-2 days to quote.
We'll price your survey in seconds.
Most surveyors take 1-2 days to quote.
We'll price your survey in seconds.





Homemove is a trading name of HM Haus Group Ltd (Company No. 13873779, registered in England & Wales). Homemove Mortgages Ltd (Company No. 15947693) is an Appointed Representative of TMG Direct Limited, trading as TMG Mortgage Network, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 786245). Homemove Mortgages Ltd is entered on the FCA Register as an Appointed Representative (FRN 1022429). You can check registrations at NewRegister or by calling 0800 111 6768.