RICS Level 2 Survey Findon, Arun

The housing stock in Findon presents unique considerations for prospective buyers. With approximately 60% of properties being detached and a significant number dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, alongside developments from the 1950s and 60s, the village offers a diverse mix of property types. Our RICS Level 2 survey is specifically designed to identify the issues most commonly found in these older properties, including damp penetration, roof condition deterioration, outdated electrical systems, and potential structural movement that might not be visible during a standard mortgage valuation.

The presence of Grade II listed cottages in the village, particularly those overlooking Nepcote Green, indicates that certain properties in Findon may require additional consideration beyond a standard survey. Our chartered surveyors understand the specific requirements for older properties and will flag any issues relating to historic building materials, conservation considerations, and maintenance requirements typical of period homes in this area of West Sussex. We know which properties fall within potential conservation boundaries and can advise on the implications for your intended renovations or modifications.

Findon's location on the South Downs brings specific geological considerations. While the chalk geology generally presents low shrink-swell potential compared to clay-heavy areas, older properties in the village may still experience foundation issues, particularly if they were built with traditional shallow footings common to the period. Our inspectors examine the full structure, from foundation to roof, ensuring you receive a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition. We pay particular attention to any signs of movement or settlement that might indicate foundation concerns, especially in properties built on the slopes of the South Downs.

The village's position along the A24 corridor makes it popular with commuters, which means many properties have been subject to various renovations and extensions over the years. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying where alterations have been carried out, checking whether appropriate building regulations approval was obtained, and assessing the quality of any extensions or conversions. This is particularly important for properties that have been converted into larger family homes or modified to create additional living space.

• Identification of structural issues
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Roof and ceiling inspection
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Thermal efficiency evaluation
• Legal compliance verification

Your RICS Level 2 survey report provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition, presented in a clear, easy-to-understand format. The report uses a traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each major element: red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects that need attention but are not urgent, and green for satisfactory condition. This clear system helps you prioritise any repair work and understand the overall investment required for the property.

For properties in Findon, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of traditional roofing materials, which are common on the older village properties. We inspect for missing or damaged tiles, signs of past leaks, and the condition of ridge tiles and flashing. Many period properties in the area feature traditional slate or clay tiles that can deteriorate with age, and our experienced surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing these materials. We also examine the condition of any chimneys, which are a common feature on Findon's older properties and can be a source of hidden defects.

Given the flint-faced construction common to many period cottages in the area, we examine the external wall fabric for any signs of decay or movement that might indicate structural issues. Flint walls require specific maintenance approaches, and our surveyors understand the potential for moisture penetration that can affect these traditional walls. We also assess the condition of pointing and any repairs that may have been carried out over the years, flagging any areas where repointing or further investigation may be required.

The electrical and plumbing sections of our report are particularly important for older Findon properties. Properties built before the 1970s may still have original wiring that does not meet current regulations, and outdated consumer units can pose a fire risk. Our surveyors visually inspect the electrical consumer unit, wiring condition where visible, and note any obvious deficiencies. For plumbing, we check the condition of visible pipework, note the age of any hot water systems, and identify materials such as lead pipes that may require replacement. These issues are commonly found in Findon's older housing stock and can represent significant unexpected costs if not identified before completion.

Based on our extensive experience surveying properties throughout Findon and the wider Arun district, we've identified several defect patterns that commonly affect homes in this area. Understanding these typical issues can help you know what to expect from your survey and prioritise any remediation work following purchase. Our knowledge of local construction methods and materials means we know exactly where to look for potential problems.

Damp-related issues are among the most frequently identified defects in Findon's older properties. The combination of solid walls, traditional construction methods, and the local climate can lead to moisture penetration that requires ongoing management. Our surveyors use professional damp meters to assess moisture levels in walls and floors, identifying both existing damp problems and conditions that could lead to future issues if not properly addressed.

Roofing defects represent another common finding in Findon, particularly on period properties with original roofing materials that may be approaching the end of their functional life. We assess the condition of tiles or slates, examine flashing details around chimneys and valleys, and check the condition of felt or sarking materials beneath the roof covering. Many older properties in the village have roofs that have been partially re-tiled over the years, and we can identify wherepatch repairs may have been carried out.

Electrical deficiencies are frequently identified in Findon properties, particularly those that have not been updated since the 1970s or earlier. We visually inspect the consumer unit, check for the presence of modern circuit protection, and note any visible wiring that appears outdated or damaged. While we cannot test electrical installations, we can identify obvious concerns that should be investigated by a qualified electrician before you proceed with the purchase.