RICS Level 2 Survey in Manston

Manston's housing mix reflects its evolution from a small village to a sought-after location in the Thanet district. With detached properties comprising 39.4% of the housing stock and semi-detached homes at 31.8%, the area offers a range of property types that each come with their own set of considerations. The average property price of £380,314 means that a survey is a wise investment to protect your significant financial commitment. Our inspectors have extensive experience surveying properties across Manston, from traditional terraced houses near the village centre to larger detached homes in quieter cul-de-sacs.

The local geology plays a crucial role in understanding potential property issues in Manston. The area sits on Thanet Formation ground, which includes clay deposits that can cause shrink-swell movement, particularly during periods of extreme weather. Combined with the chalk bedrock beneath, these ground conditions can lead to subsidence or heave in some properties, especially those with shallow foundations or those located near established trees. Our surveyors know to look for signs of movement, cracks, and other indicators that may suggest ground instability. We examine wall surfaces carefully for diagonal cracks that could indicate settlement issues, particularly in properties built on the clay-rich soils that characterise parts of this area.

Many properties in Manston were constructed between 1945 and 1980, accounting for 35.1% of the housing stock. These post-war properties often feature traditional cavity wall construction with brick or rendered finishes, but they may also have original features that now require attention, such as outdated electrical systems, aging plumbing, and roofing that has exceeded its expected lifespan. Our Level 2 surveys provide a thorough inspection of these elements, giving you a clear picture of any work that may be needed before you complete your purchase. We check the condition of the damp proof course, inspect the roof structure from inside the loft space where accessible, and assess the condition of windows and doors for signs of decay or poor operation.

Flood risk is another consideration for buyers in Manston. While the risk from rivers and the sea remains very low, surface water flooding presents a genuine concern in certain areas, particularly around Manston Road and the village centre. During heavy rainfall, water can pool in low-lying areas and overwhelm drainage systems. Our surveyors note any signs of previous water ingress, assess the effectiveness of existing drainage, and check the gradients around the property to determine whether water might accumulate near the foundations. This information is valuable for understanding potential future risks and any remedial work that might be required.

• Traditional brick construction
• Rendered finishes on older properties
• Pitched roofs with clay tiles
• Potential ground movement issues
• Surface water flood risk in low-lying areas

Our experience surveying properties throughout Manston and the surrounding Thanet area has revealed several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in older properties, with rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation frequently identified during surveys. These issues often stem from failed damp proof courses, inadequate ventilation, or deterioration in the building fabric. Our surveyors use their expertise to assess the severity of any damp issues and recommend appropriate remedial action. In properties where render has been applied to solid walls, we often find trapped moisture behind the finish, leading to internal damp problems that require specialist treatment.

Roof condition is another area of concern in Manston, especially for properties over 50 years old. Slipped tiles, damaged flashing, blocked gutters, and general wear and tear are regularly encountered during our inspections. Given the traditional pitched roofs with clay tiles that characterize many homes in the area, we pay close attention to the roof structure, checking for signs of deterioration, daylight penetration, or previous repairs that may indicate ongoing issues. In the loft space, we inspect the condition of rafters, joists, and any visible timbers for signs of woodworm, rot, or structural weakness. We also check the adequacy of insulation and ventilation, as poor loft ventilation can lead to condensation and timber decay.

The underlying geology in Manston means that subsidence and ground movement are genuine concerns for property buyers. The Thanet Formation includes clay deposits that shrink and swell with changes in moisture content, potentially causing movement in properties with shallow foundations. Our surveyors carefully examine walls for signs of cracking, particularly diagonal cracks near window and door openings, which can indicate structural movement. We also look for evidence of previous repointing or structural repairs that may suggest ongoing issues. In properties near established trees, we assess whether root systems might be affecting foundation stability.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Manston properties often require attention. Many homes built before 1980 still have their original wiring and plumbing, which may not meet current safety standards. Our survey includes a visual assessment of these services, noting any obvious deficiencies or safety concerns that should be addressed by qualified electricians and plumbers before completion. We look for outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, lead pipes, and galvanized steel pipes that may be reaching the end of their serviceable life. Identifying these issues before you complete the purchase allows you to budget for necessary upgrades or negotiate with the seller.

• Rising damp and condensation issues
• Roof tile damage and flashing problems
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Original plumbing systems
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Signs of subsidence or movement
• Surface water drainage concerns