RICS Level 2 Survey in Kennington, Ashford

A RICS Level 2 survey, also known as a Homebuyer Survey, provides a detailed inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our surveyor will assess the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, damp-proof courses, and services like plumbing and electrics. The report includes a condition rating system and specific advice on any defects found, with recommendations for repairs or further investigation where necessary. In Kennington specifically, we pay attention to the condition of red brickwork common in properties like Kennington Hall and Kennington Lodge, as well as checking for any signs of movement or structural issues that may affect period properties.

RICS Level 2 survey costs in Kennington typically range from £400 to £800 depending on the property size, type, and value. For properties in Kennington with average prices around £373,213, you can expect to pay approximately £450-£550 for a standard survey. Larger properties, those with complex features, or listed buildings may incur higher fees due to the additional time and expertise required. We offer competitive pricing with no hidden costs, and our quotes are transparent based on your specific property details. Properties at the higher end of the market, such as detached homes in the £492,000 average range, will typically be at the upper end of the survey cost scale.

While new build properties like those at Crown Hill View are typically covered by NHBC warranty, a RICS Level 2 survey is still recommended. Our inspection can identify any snagging issues, construction defects, or problems with fixtures and fittings that may not be immediately apparent. This is particularly valuable for new builds where the property may have been completed quickly and minor issues could be present. The modern construction methods used at Crown Hill View, including air source heat pumps and underfloor heating, are relatively new technologies that our surveyors can assess for proper installation and potential future maintenance concerns.

Parts of Kennington, particularly areas near the River Great Stour, have identified flood risk. The Environment Agency has noted that land close to the river has historically been left undeveloped due to flood risk, with some areas acting as flood storage. Our surveyors will check for signs of previous flooding, water damage, and damp issues during the inspection, and will report on any known flood risk affecting the property. If you are considering a property in a low-lying area near the river, we strongly recommend our survey as it will specifically look for evidence of previous flooding and advise on any mitigation measures that may be in place, such as the concrete stilts foundations that some newer developments have used.

Yes, properties within the Kennington Conservation Area (covering Faversham Road, The Street, Upper Vicarage Road, and Ball Lane) may have specific restrictions on alterations. If you are considering making changes to a property in this area, our survey report will flag any conservation area considerations. For listed buildings (of which there are 46 in Kennington), we may recommend a more comprehensive Level 3 survey due to the complexity of assessing historic features. The conservation area in Kennington is primarily urban and residential, with the Ball Lane part being distinctly rural, so the implications for your property will depend on its specific location within the designated area.

We aim to deliver your RICS Level 2 survey report within 3-5 working days of the property inspection. In most cases, reports are completed within this timeframe, allowing you to proceed with your purchase decision promptly. We understand that buying a property involves tight timelines, and we prioritise quick turnaround without compromising on quality. Our efficient turnaround is particularly valuable in the Kennington market where property transactions can move quickly given the area's popularity with commuters seeking access to London via Ashford International.

Yes, our RICS Level 2 survey includes a structural assessment that looks for signs of subsidence, movement, or structural instability. The surveyor will examine walls, foundations, and load-bearing elements for cracks, distortion, or other indicators of structural issues. While a Level 2 survey is a visual inspection only, any concerns will be clearly reported with recommendations for further investigation if necessary. In Kennington, where clay soils can cause shrink-swell issues, our surveyors are particularly vigilant for signs of movement in walls and foundations, especially in older properties that may have been subject to seasonal ground movement over many years.

If the survey reveals significant issues, the report will provide detailed information about the problem, its cause, and recommended actions. You can then use this information to negotiate a price reduction with the seller, request repairs before completion, or in some cases, reconsider the purchase entirely. Our team is available to discuss the findings and advise on the best course of action. Given that the average property price in Kennington is £373,213, discovering issues early can save you thousands of pounds in unexpected repair costs, making the survey investment highly valuable.

The Level 2 survey is most suitable for conventional properties in reasonable condition, which covers the majority of housing stock in Kennington. This includes the post-1960s properties that make up much of the village's housing, as well as more recent developments like Crown Hill View. Properties over 100 years old, those showing significant defects, or listed buildings may benefit from a more comprehensive Level 3 Building Survey. Our team can advise you on the most appropriate survey type based on the specific property you are purchasing, taking into account its age, construction type, and any known issues.