RICS Level 2 Survey Newchurch, Folkestone and Hythe

Newchurch and the surrounding Romney Marsh area presents a unique set of considerations for property buyers. The village features a mix of historical properties, including 19th-century farmhouses and period homes that characterise much of the housing stock. While these properties offer tremendous charm and character, they also come with the typical issues associated with older construction, including aging roof structures, outdated electrical systems, and the potential for damp penetration. A RICS Level 2 Survey provides you with a professional assessment of these elements, giving you clarity before you complete your purchase.

The Folkestone and Hythe district has seen house prices increase by approximately 3.9% year-on-year as of July 2025, with the average property value sitting around the £312,500 mark for Newchurch specifically. Given these significant investments, the cost of a Level 2 Survey represents a small but crucial safeguard against hidden defects. Our surveyors will inspect the property internally and externally, assessing the condition of walls, floors, doors, windows, and the roof space where accessible. They will identify issues ranging from minor cosmetic defects to serious structural concerns that could impact the property's value or require substantial repair work.

One of the key advantages of the RICS Level 2 Survey is the traffic light rating system that highlights defects according to their severity. Red ratings indicate serious issues that require urgent attention, amber ratings denote defects that need repairing but are not immediately critical, and green ratings signify satisfactory conditions. This clear, visual approach makes it easy for you to understand exactly what you are purchasing and allows you to negotiate with sellers if significant issues are identified. In a market where detached properties (which make up three-quarters of sales in Newchurch) regularly fetch prices exceeding £285,000, this negotiation power can prove invaluable.

Our team has inspected properties across various locations in the Newchurch area, from homes along The Street near the historic Grade II listed former village school, to detached houses in the newer developments approaching the village centre. We understand that properties in this low-lying marshland location face specific challenges that buyers may not anticipate, and our reports reflect this local knowledge.

• Internal and external visual inspection
• Assessment of main walls, roof, and structure
• Identification of damp, rot, and timber defects
• Evaluation of bathroom and kitchen fittings
• Review of doors, windows, and joinery
• Traffic light defect ratings with repair recommendations

Properties in Newchurch and the wider Folkestone and Hythe area present several common issues that our surveyors frequently identify during Level 2 inspections. Given the significant proportion of older properties in the village, damp is one of the most prevalent concerns. This can manifest as penetrating damp from failing roof coverings, rising damp due to damaged or missing damp proof courses, or condensation issues resulting from inadequate ventilation. Our surveyors will thoroughly assess walls, floors, and ceilings for signs of damp staining, salt deposits, or mold growth that may indicate underlying moisture problems.

Roof conditions represent another major area of concern, particularly for the detached properties that dominate the Newchurch market. Many homes in this area feature traditional roof constructions that may be decades old. Missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated flashing, and compromised felt underlays can all lead to water ingress and subsequent damage to internal timbers. Our surveyors inspect roof coverings from both inside the roof void (where accessible) and externally from ground level, providing you with a comprehensive assessment of the roof's condition and expected remaining lifespan.

The electrical systems in older properties often require careful evaluation during a Level 2 Survey. Properties constructed before modern electrical regulations may have outdated wiring that does not meet current safety standards. While a Level 2 Survey is not a detailed electrical test (which would require a separate NICEIC registered electrician), our surveyors will note any obvious concerns such as outdated consumer units, visible cable deterioration, or junction boxes that appear unsafe. These observations can then be followed up with appropriate specialist inspections before you complete your purchase.

Properties on Romney Marsh also face unique challenges related to the underlying ground conditions. The alluvial soils in this low-lying area can experience movement that affects foundations over time. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of subsidence or settlement that may be related to ground conditions specific to this part of Kent. We also note the condition of any retaining walls or structures near water courses, as the proximity to the Royal Military Canal and other drainage features in the Marsh can influence property condition.

• Damp and moisture penetration
• Roof tile damage or deterioration
• Outdated electrical installations
• Window and door joinery issues
• Chimney and flashing defects
• Subsidence or settlement cracks