RICS Level 2 Survey in ME20 6 Aylesford

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive evaluation of the property's visible and accessible elements, following the rigorous standards set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The inspection covers all major structural components including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and foundations. Our surveyors systematically examine the exterior of the property, assessing the condition of brickwork, pointing, render, and weatherproofing details. They inspect roofs for missing or damaged tiles, signs of leakage, and the condition of verges, ridges, and valleys.

Inside the property, our inspectors assess the condition of internal finishes, fixtures, and fittings while checking for signs of dampness, rot, or structural movement. We examine the plumbing and electrical installations where visible, noting any obvious defects or areas requiring further investigation by specialists. The survey also evaluates the property's ventilation, insulation, and energy efficiency, providing you with a clear picture of how the building performs. For properties in flood-risk areas like Aylesford, our surveyors pay particular attention to any signs of previous water damage or flood resilience measures.

The ME20 6 area presents a diverse mix of housing stock, from Victorian-era terraced properties to contemporary new-build developments. Older properties in the area may exhibit issues common to period construction, including damp penetration through solid walls, outdated electrical wiring, and wear to original roof coverings. Modern developments such as those at Orchard Mill typically present fewer structural concerns but may have snagging issues unique to newer construction. Our surveyors adapt their inspection approach based on the age and type of property, ensuring nothing significant is overlooked.

Our inspection team has extensive experience identifying defects specific to Kent properties, including issues arising from the local clay soils that can cause subsidence movement, and the tidal flooding risks from the River Medway that affect lower-lying properties. We check specifically for cracked brickwork that might indicate foundation movement, damp proof course failures common in older solid-wall construction, and any evidence of previous flooding at lower floor levels. The report will clearly highlight any areas of concern and provide practical advice on necessary remedial work.

• Visible structural defects
• Roof condition and weatherproofing
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Wall fabric and pointing condition
• Window and door operation
• Electrical and plumbing visible defects
• Drainage and guttering
• Insulation and ventilation

Our surveyors regularly identify several recurring defect patterns when inspecting properties in the ME20 6 area. Damp penetration ranks among the most common issues we encounter, particularly in Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses that were built with solid walls lacking cavity construction. These properties often show signs of damp at ground floor level, particularly where render has failed or where boundary walls restrict airflow. We also frequently find damaged or missing roof tiles on period properties, especially where original clay tiles have reached the end of their serviceable life.

In properties built during the mid-twentieth century, which make up a significant portion of the semi-detached housing stock in this postcode, we commonly identify deteriorating brickwork pointing, corroded lead flashing around chimneys, and signs of structural movement at the junction between extension walls and main structures. Many of these homes were constructed with shallow foundations that can be affected by the shrink-swell behaviour of the local clay soils during periods of drought or heavy rainfall. Our surveyors know to examine walls for characteristic cracks that indicate this type of foundation movement.

Newer properties at Orchard Mill and other recent developments in the ME20 6 area typically present different defect patterns. While structurally sound, these modern homes often have snagging issues including poorly sealed windows, insufficient insulation in roof spaces, and minor issues with drainage fall away from the property. We have also identified instances where air source heat pump installations, increasingly common in new builds, have been installed without proper commissioning or maintenance documentation.

The ME20 6 postcode sector contains a varied mix of residential properties reflecting Aylesford's evolution from a historic village to a contemporary commuter settlement. Terraced properties, particularly those of Victorian construction, represent a significant portion of the older housing stock. These properties often feature traditional brick construction with solid walls, original sash windows, and period fireplaces. While characterful, they commonly require attention to damp proofing, roof maintenance, and updating of services. Properties along the High Street and Church Street areas typically fall into this category.

Semi-detached houses dominate the sales activity in this postcode sector, offering family accommodation at mid-range prices. Many of these properties date from the mid-twentieth century and benefit from relatively straightforward construction but may show signs of age-related wear. The newer developments, including those at Orchard Mill on Kiln Barn Road, provide modern alternatives with contemporary heating systems, double glazing, and energy-efficient construction. These new-build properties typically command premium prices, with three-bedroom homes starting from £469,995 and larger five-bedroom homes reaching over £1 million. The development by St Modwen offers several house types including The Kea, The Kingness, and The Waltness.

Flats in the ME20 6 area represent a smaller portion of the housing stock, with average prices around £199,000. These properties often appeal to first-time buyers and investors alike. When surveying flats, our inspectors pay attention to the condition of shared elements, the functioning of communal ventilation systems, and any signs of structural movement that might affect the building's integrity. The survey report clearly distinguishes between issues that are the responsibility of the leaseholder versus those managed by the freeholder or management company. We have surveyed flats in several developments across the postcode, including properties near Aylesford railway station that appeal to commuters.