RICS Level 2 Survey in Fawkham

Fawkham presents a unique property landscape that makes professional surveying particularly valuable. The village is dominated by detached properties, which account for 71.6% of all dwellings according to the latest census data. These larger homes often have complex roof structures, multiple floors, and extensive plumbing and electrical systems that can hide underlying problems. Our inspectors examine every accessible area of the property, from the foundations to the chimney stacks, ensuring you know exactly what you are buying.

The area has seen considerable new build activity in recent years, with developments such as Fernham Homes at Fawkham offering 3 and 4-bedroom properties from £500,000 and the Orchard Farm development providing 3-bedroom detached bungalows at £595,000. While new builds might seem less risky, even properties on these modern developments can have defects that only a trained eye will spot. Our surveyors check the quality of workmanship, ventilation, and building regulations compliance that may not be apparent to the average buyer.

Many properties in Fawkham are located within or near the Baldwins Green Conservation Area, and the village contains one Grade I listed building (the 12th-century St Mary's Church) alongside 12 Grade II listed buildings. These historic properties often require specialist knowledge to assess correctly. Our surveyors understand the implications of listed building status and can identify issues specific to older construction methods, including flint and brickwork found in buildings like Fawkham Manor, or the stuccoed walls typical of early 19th-century properties like Pennis House.

The proximity of Brands Hatch motor racing circuit to Fawkham means some properties may have been exposed to higher noise levels or vibration over the years, which can affect building fabric. Additionally, properties along flight paths or near major roads may have different wear patterns. Our inspectors take these local factors into account when assessing your potential new home. The chalk geology underlying the area can also create specific ground conditions that affect foundations, particularly in older properties where traditional shallow foundations may have settled differentially over time.

One development to be aware of is Fawkham Manor on Manor Lane, which combines luxury apartments in a converted Grade II listed building (originally built in 1866-1867) with 18 new 4-bedroom houses. These developments present unique surveying challenges, as the converted historic building may have different structural characteristics than the new construction element. Our team has experience assessing such properties and can identify any issues arising from the conversion work or integration of old and new building elements.

• Detached property specialist assessments
• Conservation area property surveys
• Listed building condition reports
• New build snagging inspections
• Valuation and insurance rebuild costs

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides comprehensive coverage of the main elements of your property. Our inspector examines the walls, looking for signs of cracking, damp penetration, or structural movement that might indicate foundation issues. In Fawkham, where properties range from historic buildings with traditional flint and brick construction to modern homes, understanding the wall structure and its condition is particularly important. The mix of solid wall construction in older properties and cavity wall construction in newer homes requires different assessment approaches, and our surveyors understand these distinctions.

The roof receives detailed attention, with our surveyor checking the tiles or slates, flashing, gutters, and any chimneys. Many detached properties in Fawkham have complex roof designs with multiple valleys and dormer windows, which can be prone to leaking if not properly maintained. We identify any missing or damaged tiles, signs of previous repairs, and assess the overall life expectancy of the roofing materials. In older properties with traditional clay tiles, we also check for signs of frost damage or mortar deterioration that can lead to water ingress.

We also inspect the property's damp proof course, ventilation, and insulation. Poor ventilation can lead to condensation and damp problems, which are particularly concerning in older properties that may have solid walls rather than cavity walls. Our report highlights any concerns and recommends appropriate action, whether that involves improving ventilation, installing a new damp proof course, or seeking specialist advice for more significant issues. In properties with significant damp problems, we may recommend a follow-up survey by a damp specialist to assess the extent of any timber decay or structural affectedness.

The report includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost, which is essential for ensuring you have appropriate buildings cover. With Fawkham's average property values exceeding £700,000, having an accurate rebuild cost ensures you are not underinsured. We also highlight any obvious discrepancies between the asking price and our valuation, giving you valuable leverage in price negotiations. For properties in the Baldwins Green Conservation Area or listed buildings, we can advise on any additional considerations for insurance and maintenance that may apply.

Our inspection also covers the property's electrical and plumbing systems, though we can only comment on what is visible rather than testing behind walls or under floors. We note the age and condition of visible wiring, consumer units, and plumbing fixtures, flagging any obvious concerns that would warrant further investigation by a qualified electrician or plumber. For newer developments like those on the Fernham Homes site, we also check that building regulations compliance documentation is in place where visible.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Damp proof course and dampness
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible fixtures
• Insulation and ventilation
• Garage and outbuildings
• Boundary walls and fences