RICS Level 2 Survey in Lavant

Lavant presents a unique set of considerations for property buyers. This historic village, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Loventone", has seen significant property development over the centuries. The area sits at the foot of the South Downs, with geology dominated by chalk formations, and properties here face specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. The combination of chalk bedrock and local clay deposits can affect foundation conditions and drainage, particularly in older properties.

The village has experienced considerable price fluctuations recently, with average sold prices falling 26% compared to the previous year and 41% below the 2023 peak of £866,056. Despite this, Lavant remains attractive due to its proximity to Chichester and access to the South Downs National Park. Properties in the PO18 0BX postcode area have shown resilience, with a 2.2% rise over the past year and a 19.2% increase over five years. The nearby Goodwood Estate, home to the famous Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, contributes significantly to the local economy and makes the area desirable for buyers seeking a balance of rural charm and accessibility.

Our surveyors understand the local construction methods used throughout Lavant. While newer developments like Oakley Green feature traditional brick and flint construction, many properties in the village are of considerable age, requiring experienced assessment for issues common to older housing stock. We check for problems specific to the area, including flood risk, damp penetration through ground floors, and structural issues related to the local geology. The proximity to the South Downs also means some properties may have foundations affected by chalk conditions or historical mining activity in the region.

• Flood risk assessment
• Damp and moisture detection
• Structural integrity checks
• Electrical safety review
• Roof and chimney condition

Flooding is a significant concern for properties in Lavant, and our surveyors pay particular attention to this issue during inspections. The village has a documented history of flooding dating back to the 19th century, with the River Lavant from Mid Lavant to Shopwhyke and Chichester designated as a flood alert area. Mid and East Lavant on the River Lavant are also flood warning areas, meaning flooding to some property is expected when a warning is active. Our inspectors examine properties with this history in mind, looking for signs of previous water damage and flood mitigation measures.

The flooding mechanism in Lavant is particularly complex. According to the Upper Lavant Valley Flood Risk Management Study from December 2014, groundwater emerging through ground floor slabs and infiltrating sewers causes significant problems during periods of heavy rainfall. The increased areas of hard surfacing in recent years have exacerbated surface water runoff issues. This type of groundwater flooding is particularly insidious because it can occur even when rivers are not in flood, making it harder to predict and prepare for.

During our Level 2 surveys, our inspectors assess the property's vulnerability to flood damage, examine drainage systems, and note any signs of previous water ingress. We check for flood mitigation measures, the condition of ground floor flooring, and the proximity to known flood zones. For properties in areas like Sheepwash Lane, Pook Lane, and the Green in East Lavant, we provide detailed assessments of flood risk. We also examine whether properties have been fitted with non-return valves, sump pumps, or other flood resilience measures that could mitigate future damage.

• Ground floor slab condition
• Drainage system assessment
• Signs of previous flooding
• Flood mitigation measures
• Property history research

Our experience surveying properties throughout Lavant and the surrounding Chichester area has identified several recurring issues. Given the village's history and proximity to groundwater sources, damp problems are among the most frequently identified defects. Rising damp and penetrating damp caused by water ingress through ground floor slabs affect numerous properties, particularly those with solid concrete floors rather than suspended timber. The high water table in parts of Lavant, combined with the chalk geology that can channel groundwater, means damp issues can be persistent and difficult to treat without addressing the underlying cause.

The age of Lavant's housing stock means that roof conditions are another common concern. Properties built before the 1970s often feature older roof coverings that may have deteriorated or contain hidden defects. Our surveyors inspect roof slopes, flashings, chimneys, and gutters, identifying areas requiring attention or future maintenance. Many older properties also have chimneys that may be unsafe or in poor condition, particularly those that have not been used or maintained for years. We check for signs of structural movement, cracking, or evidence of previous repairs that might indicate underlying issues.

Electrical safety is increasingly important in older properties. Many homes in Lavant still contain original wiring that does not meet current regulations. Our Level 2 surveys include a visual assessment of the electrical installation, highlighting areas that require professional inspection by a qualified electrician. We also check for potential fire hazards, outdated consumer units, and the condition of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Given that many properties in the area date from different eras of building, we often find a mix of old and new electrical installations that may not be compatible or safe.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof covering deterioration
• Outdated electrical installations
• Window and door joinery
• Chimney condition and flashing

Whether you are buying a terraced property in Mid Lavant at around £346,000 or a detached home exceeding £1,000,000, an independent RICS Level 2 survey protects your investment. Mortgage valuations, which lenders arrange before approving a loan, focus on the property's value for security purposes rather than its condition. They do not identify defects or provide recommendations. A valuation is simply the bank's assessment of whether the property is worth the price you are paying, not an expert opinion on its condition or any work it may need.

Our chartered surveyors provide completely independent assessments of every property we inspect. We have no financial interest in the transaction, ensuring our reports are unbiased and focused entirely on your interests as a buyer. The detailed findings in our reports can also provide valuable leverage during price negotiations if significant defects are identified. In the current Lavant market, where property prices have experienced notable fluctuation, understanding the true condition of your intended purchase is more important than ever.

A Level 2 survey helps you avoid costly repairs and ensures you are not caught out by hidden problems that could run into thousands of pounds to rectify. The average cost of a survey is a small fraction of the potential repair costs for issues like damp treatment, roof repairs, or electrical rewiring. Given the specific challenges in Lavant, including flood risk and the age of many properties, the investment in a survey provides essential and protects your financial interests.