RICS Level 2 Survey in Kings Worthy

Kings Worthy offers an eclectic mix of property types and ages that reflects its long history as a settlement. The village features a designated Conservation Area, established in 1985, which encompasses the historic core around London Road and Church Road. This area contains approximately 40 residential buildings and several commercial properties, many of which are listed. Properties in this Conservation Area may feature exposed timber frames with brick and plaster infill, weatherboarding, colour-washed brickwork, and traditional clay tile or thatched roofs. If you are purchasing a property within the conservation area, our RICS Level 2 survey will identify any issues relating to these traditional construction methods.

Beyond the historic core, the village expanded significantly during the inter-war period along Springvale Road and Lovedon Lane, with small to medium-sized bungalows and early 20th-century two-storey houses. The Tubbs Green and Hookpit Farm estates from the 1960s and 1970s bring more modern suburban development, typically constructed using brick with tile hanging or weatherboarding. The majority of properties in Kings Worthy are brick-built, though variations include flint walls particularly common in boundary structures, and slate or clay tile roofing. Our surveyors understand these construction methods and can identify common defects associated with each era.

Recent data shows property prices in Kings Worthy have experienced a correction, with values falling approximately 13-19% from their 2023 peak of around £540,000. The median price paid stands at around £460,000 based on 41 sales in 2025. This price adjustment makes it an attractive time to purchase, but a thorough survey is essential to ensure you are not inheriting costly structural or maintenance issues. Our Level 2 survey is specifically designed for conventional properties in reasonable condition, making it suitable for the majority of homes in Kings Worthy.

• Conservation Area properties
• 1960s-1970s developments
• Inter-war housing
• Modern detached homes
• Listed buildings requiring specialist attention

The variety of construction ages and methods in Kings Worthy means our surveyors frequently identify several recurring issues. Older properties in the conservation area may suffer from rising damp, particularly where original damp proof courses have failed or were never installed. Roof conditions are a common concern, with older clay tiles prone to slippage and deterioration, and thatched roofs requiring specialist inspection. Properties with exposed timber frames may have timber decay or beetle infestation, especially where maintenance has been neglected. The Church of St Mary dates back to the 13th century, and nearby historic properties may have similar age-related issues.

Properties built during the 1960s and 1970s present their own challenges. At Tubbs Green, properties feature large windows and weatherboarding or tile hanging that can deteriorate differently from traditional construction. The mass-produced materials used during this era often have insulation standards well below current requirements, and uPVC windows fitted as replacements may have seal failures. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying these specific issues and will flag them clearly in your report.

The local geology of chalk and loam soils can create potential for subsidence or heave, particularly where clay content is significant or where trees are planted close to foundations. Our inspectors assess the grounds around properties for signs of movement, tree coverage that may affect foundations, and any existing cracks that could indicate structural movement. Properties in the Itchen Valley floodplain require particular attention, and we note any evidence of past flooding or water damage. The A33 road that runs through the parish can also generate traffic vibration concerns for properties closer to this busy route.