RICS Level 2 Survey in Matching

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and bathrooms, checking for signs of damp, structural movement, rot, and other defects that could affect the value or safety of the property. In Matching, where many properties date from the Victorian era through to the 1930s, our inspectors pay particular attention to common issues found in older construction, including aging roof coverings, original timber frames, and outdated electrical systems.

The survey includes a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition rated using RICS traffic light system - red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects needing future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. We also provide practical guidance on maintenance matters that will help the new owner keep the property in good condition. For properties in Matching's conservation areas or listed buildings, we highlight any specific considerations that may affect your renovation plans or insurance requirements. Our surveyors are familiar with the additional considerations that apply to properties such as the Grade II listed period cottages that overlook Matching Green.

Our inspectors examine both the interior and exterior of the property, including any outbuildings, garages, and boundary walls. We access the roof space where safe and accessible, check the condition of fascias and soffits, and inspect damp-proof courses and ventilation systems. The resulting report includes clear photographs highlighting specific defects, estimated repair costs where applicable, and prioritised recommendations for any remedial work needed. Given the local geology in this part of Essex, which includes London Clay, we pay particular attention to any signs of subsidence or movement that could indicate shrink-swell activity in the soil beneath properties.

• Structural elements including walls, floors and ceilings
• Roof structure, covering and rainwater goods
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical observations
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

The Matching area, spanning CM17 including Matching Green and Matching Tye, offers a varied housing stock that reflects its transition from a traditional rural village to a commuter-belt location. Semi-detached properties dominate the local market, reflecting the mid-20th century expansion that occurred as workers commuted to nearby Harlow and London. However, the village also retains significant numbers of older terraced cottages and period properties that contribute to its historic character.

Properties in Matching benefit from proximity to both Epping and Harlow, with residents enjoying access to mainline railway stations, shopping facilities, and employment opportunities while living in a semi-rural setting. This combination drives consistent demand for properties in the area, with prices remaining stable and showing modest growth. The average house price of £592,500 in Matching reflects this balance between village character and commuter accessibility. Essex as a whole saw property prices increase by approximately 1% over the last year, with the county's average property price around £423,000.

For buyers considering properties in Matching Green, where average prices approach £1 million, the premium reflects the particularly desirable location with properties overlooking the village green and access to surrounding countryside. These higher-value properties often include period features and larger plots, but may also require more specialist maintenance considerations. Our surveyors provide detailed assessments that account for the specific characteristics of this sought-after neighbourhood, including any listed building considerations or conservation area restrictions that may affect future modifications.

• Victorian and Edwardian cottages
• 1930s semi-detached homes
• Modern family houses
• Period properties with character features

With property prices in Matching showing steady growth and values in Matching Green approaching £1 million, the financial risk of purchasing without a survey is substantial. Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides independent, professional assessment that helps protect your investment. The 2% year-on-year price increase demonstrates a healthy market, but even in a growing market, understanding the true condition of the property remains essential. Given that the average property price in Matching is now similar to the 2021 peak of £592,383, buyers need to ensure they are making informed decisions about what is often the largest financial commitment of their lives.

Many properties in Matching feature traditional construction methods that, while generally sound, require specialist understanding to assess accurately. Our surveyors bring local knowledge of how properties in the Epping Forest area have been built and modified over the decades, identifying issues that might be missed by a less experienced eye. From checking the condition of original timber windows in Victorian cottages to assessing modern extensions and conversions, we provide the detailed insight you need. We also understand how the local London Clay geology can affect foundations and structural movement, which is particularly important for the older properties that make up much of Matching's housing stock.

The semi-rural nature of Matching means properties may also have unique considerations relating to drainage, septic tanks, or private water supplies that don't apply in more urban areas. Our surveyors note any such systems and highlight any relevant maintenance requirements or regulations. This comprehensive approach ensures you have all the information needed to enjoy your new home without unexpected surprises. For properties near the forest boundary, we also consider any potential tree-related issues that may affect foundations or drainage, drawing on our knowledge of local conditions.