RICS Level 2 Survey in Ford, West Sussex

The RICS Level 2 survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, is our most popular survey option for properties in reasonable condition. Our inspectors examine the accessible parts of the property including walls, floors, ceilings, roof spaces, and services, identifying any defects that might affect the value or safety of the home. In Ford, where properties range from 1980s-built homes on the Peregrines estate to older character properties near the River Arun, this survey type provides essential insight into the property's condition. We assess everything from the foundations to the roof, ensuring you have a complete picture before you buy.

Our surveyors check for common issues prevalent in West Sussex properties, including damp penetration (particularly relevant given the area's proximity to the River Arun and its flood risk), roof condition, structural movement, and the condition of windows and doors. We also assess the condition of electrical and plumbing installations, providing you with a clear picture of any remedial work that may be needed. Given Ford's geology, which includes clay deposits typical of West Sussex, we pay particular attention to any signs of subsidence or shrink-swell movement that can affect properties built on clay soil. For properties in Ford Lane, where average prices reach £857,500, this detailed assessment is particularly valuable given the investment involved.

The RICS Level 2 survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected: green for satisfactory condition, amber for requiring attention, and red for requiring urgent repair. This straightforward format helps you quickly identify the most serious issues while understanding the overall scope of any work required. We provide clear recommendations alongside each rating, so you know exactly what action to take. The report also includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost if you request these additions, giving you a comprehensive understanding of your investment.

The survey covers all key building elements including external walls, roof structure and chimneys, windows, doors and joinery, dampness and timber defects, plumbing and electrical installations, floors, ceilings and walls, insulation and drainage systems. Our chartered surveyors use their expertise to identify defects that might not be visible to the untrained eye, providing you with professional insight into the true condition of the property. This comprehensive approach ensures you won't face unexpected repair bills shortly after moving in.

• External walls, roof, and chimneys
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Dampness and timber defects
• Plumbing and electrical installations
• Floors, ceilings, and walls
• Insulation and drainage

The Ford property market offers a diverse range of homes, from executive detached properties in prestigious locations to more affordable options on established estates. Given the variety of property types and ages in the area, a RICS Level 2 survey provides appropriate inspection depth for most buyers. Properties on the Peregrines estate, built in the 1980s, typically respond well to this survey level, as do traditional brick-built homes throughout the village. With prices ranging from around £278,000 on Ford Road to £857,500 on Ford Lane, a survey is a small investment that protects your significant purchase.

For those considering properties near Ford Manor House or other historic buildings, listed properties may require a more comprehensive RICS Level 3 Building Survey due to their age and construction complexity. Our team will advise you if we believe a Level 3 survey would be more appropriate for your particular property. We always recommend the survey type that best serves your needs based on the property's age, construction, and condition. Properties with listed building status often have unique construction challenges that warrant the more detailed Level 3 inspection.

The ongoing Ford Airfield development by Abri and Vistry is transforming the area, with approximately 1,500 new homes, affordable housing, a care home, and new community facilities planned. This significant investment in the area makes it an exciting time to buy in Ford, but also underscores the importance of a professional survey to understand exactly what you're purchasing, especially if considering older properties in the vicinity of new construction works. With completion expected by 2037, this development will substantially change the character of the area, making it essential to understand how this might affect your property investment.

Ford's location near the River Arun means flood risk is a consideration for some properties, particularly those in lower-lying areas around 2-7 metres above sea level. Our surveyors pay particular attention to dampness, drainage, and any signs of water damage when inspecting properties in the village. We also note the agricultural nature of the surrounding area, with high-quality arable farmland that can indicate soil conditions affecting foundations. Understanding these local factors helps us provide a more thorough and relevant assessment of your potential new home.

• Clear, traffic-light rated findings
• RICS qualified chartered surveyors
• 3-5 day turnaround
• Email and hard copy reports
• Competitive pricing from £350
• Suitable for properties under 100 years old