RICS Level 2 Survey in East Dean and Friston

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our surveyors examine the condition of the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of built-in fixtures and fittings. They assess the general state of the plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems, noting any obvious defects or areas that do not meet current regulations. The survey also includes an evaluation of the property's overall energy efficiency, giving you insight into potential running costs and improvement opportunities.

In East Dean and Friston, our inspectors frequently encounter issues related to the age and construction of local properties. Many homes in this area were built before 1919, with solid brick or flint walls that lack modern cavity construction. These older properties often suffer from rising damp, particularly where original damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed. Penetrating damp is also common, especially in properties with weathered pointing or damaged roof coverings that allow rain to penetrate the fabric of the building.

The chalk geology underlying most of East Dean and Friston is generally stable, but our surveyors remain alert to localized issues. Where superficial deposits contain clay, such as in areas with Clay-with-flints, shrink-swell movement can affect foundations, particularly where trees or large shrubs are present close to the property. Surface water flooding can also occur in low-lying spots after heavy rainfall, and our reports will flag any specific flood risks identified during the inspection.

Our surveyors pay particular attention to the distinctive flint construction found throughout the village. Flint walls require specific expertise to assess properly, as the way individual flints are bonded together can deteriorate over time. We check for loose or missing flints, deterioration of the mortar between flints, and any signs of structural movement that might indicate underlying problems with the wall's integrity.

• Wall condition and structural movement
• Roof coverings, flashings, and gutters
• Damp and timber condition
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Energy efficiency assessment

Based on our experience surveying properties across East Dean and Friston, several defect categories appear regularly in our reports. Damp is perhaps the most frequent issue, affecting both older solid-walled properties and newer homes where ventilation is inadequate. Rising damp occurs when the damp-proof course has failed or been bridged, while penetrating damp results from defects in the roof, walls, or render. Condensation is common in properties with poor ventilation, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms where moisture is generated daily. In flint-walled properties, moisture can track through the mortar joints more easily than through solid brick walls, making the condition of pointing particularly important.

Roof condition is another area where our surveyors frequently identify problems. The clay and concrete tile roofs common across the area suffer from wear and tear over time. Tiles can crack, slip, or become porous with age, while lead flashings deteriorate and gutters become blocked with moss and debris. Defective roof coverings allow water ingress that leads to damp, rot, and damage to internal decorations. Our surveyors carefully examine all accessible roof areas, including loft spaces where present. In properties close to the coast, salt-laden winds can accelerate the deterioration of roof tiles and mortar, requiring more frequent maintenance.

Timber defects are also prevalent, particularly in older properties with suspended wooden floors and traditional timber-framed construction. Wet rot and dry rot can affect floorboards, joists, and structural timbers, often as a result of ongoing damp problems or plumbing leaks. Woodworm infestations are sometimes found in older timber elements, and our surveyors will note any signs of active infestation that require treatment by a specialist contractor.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older properties often require particular attention. Many homes built before the 1970s may have original wiring that does not meet current regulations, and plumbing systems may use materials such as lead or galvanised steel that are now considered outdated. Our surveyors will note any visible electrical consumer units, the presence of older-style rubber or fabric-covered cabling, and the type of plumbing materials visible at accessible points.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Cracked or slipped roof tiles
• Wet rot and dry rot
• Woodworm infestations
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Defective guttering and flashings