RICS Level 2 Survey in ME17 1

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas, giving you a clear red-amber-green rating for different parts of the building. The survey includes a thorough assessment of the roof, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of plumbing, electrical systems, and heating. Our inspectors examine both the interior and exterior of the property, checking for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and other defects that might not be apparent during a casual viewing. We take photographs of all significant defects so you can see exactly what our surveyor has identified.

In the ME17 1 area, where we frequently encounter older properties including those dating back to the fifteenth century, our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of traditional building materials. Kent ragstone, brick, and timber-framed construction are common in this area, and our inspectors understand how these materials behave over time and what signs of deterioration to look for. We also check for any issues related to the age of the property, such as outdated electrical wiring, old plumbing systems, or the presence of hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint. Many properties in this area were built before modern building regulations, so our surveyors know to check for updates that may be required.

The Level 2 survey also includes an assessment of any extensions or alterations that have been made to the property. Many homes in the ME17 1 area have been extended over the years, and it is important to verify that these additions have been properly constructed and do not compromise the structural integrity of the building. Our surveyors will check for signs of poor workmanship, inadequate foundations, or drainage issues that can commonly affect extensions. We have seen numerous cases where poorly executed extensions have led to significant problems, so we pay extra attention to these areas during our inspection.

We also assess the condition of outbuildings, garages, and any other structures on the property. Many homes in the ME17 1 area have large gardens with detached garages or workshops, and these structures can have their own issues that affect the overall value of the property. Our survey includes a visual inspection of these areas, noting any defects that may require attention or further investigation.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proof course, and visible timber
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors, ceilings, and staircases
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical consumer unit and wiring
• Heating and hot water systems
• Garages and outbuildings

The ME17 1 area features a diverse mix of housing stock, from historic cottages dating back to the fifteenth century to more modern developments built in recent years. This variety means that different types of properties can present different challenges. Older properties, while full of character, often come with issues such as damp penetration, outdated electrical systems, and wear and tear on roofing and structural elements. Our Level 2 survey is specifically designed to identify these problems and give you a clear picture of what you would be taking on. We have seen numerous properties in this area with significant damp issues that were not apparent during viewings.

Many properties in this area were built using traditional Kent construction methods, including ragstone masonry and timber framing. While these materials are generally durable, they can be susceptible to specific issues over time. Movement in clay soils is common across Kent, and this can lead to subsidence or structural movement in properties that were not built with modern foundation techniques. Our surveyors are trained to spot the signs of such issues, including cracking in walls, doors that stick, and uneven floors. We have identified numerous properties in the ME17 1 area with varying degrees of structural movement that required further investigation.

The area also includes newer build properties, such as those at The Grange in Kings Square, Leeds and developments in Hollingbourne. While these newer homes may have fewer issues, they can still have defects such as poor workmanship, inadequate insulation, or problems with windows and doors. Ivy House in Harrietsham is another new development in the area, built by Clarendon Homes. Our Level 2 survey provides value for buyers of any property type, ensuring you know exactly what you are getting before you commit to your purchase. Even new builds can have defects that are not immediately obvious, and our surveyors know what to look for in modern construction.

We also see many properties that have been extended or renovated over the years. While these modifications can add value, they can also introduce problems if not done correctly. Our surveyors check all extensions for signs of poor workmanship, inadequate foundations, and drainage issues. We have seen cases where extensions have been built without proper building regulation approval, which can cause problems when you come to sell the property.

• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof condition and tile damage
• Structural movement and subsidence
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Plumbing and drainage problems
• Window and door defects
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Chimney and fireplace condition