RICS Level 2 Survey in PO20 (Chichester Area)

Our inspectors conduct a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of your PO20 property. This includes the structural integrity of walls, floors, ceilings and roofs, along with the condition of windows, doors, joinery and fixtures. We check for signs of damp, rot, timber decay and structural movement, which are particularly important in this coastal area where properties can be exposed to salt air and moisture. The survey also covers the condition of plumbing, electrical installations (where visibly accessible), heating systems and insulation.

For properties in the PO20 area, our surveyors pay particular attention to issues common to the local housing stock. Many properties in this area, particularly in villages like Aldingbourne and around Selsey, are older period homes that may have traditional construction methods. We inspect flint walls, thatched roofs where present, and the condition of older brickwork and render. Our detailed report will flag any concerns about the property's construction type and advise on whether further specialist investigations are needed.

The Level 2 survey also includes a thorough assessment of the property's environment and location. We note any nearby flood risk areas, which are relevant for parts of PO20, and check for potential issues with coastal erosion in the Selsey and West Wittering areas. The report includes a market value assessment and reinstatement cost for insurance purposes, giving you a complete picture of your potential purchase.

Our inspectors specifically assess the condition of external walls, roof coverings, windows and doors for signs of salt corrosion or moisture damage that may not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye. We also check for evidence of past flooding or water ingress in properties near the coast or in low-lying areas. This is particularly important in PO20 where flood risk data is available for specific postcodes and properties may be susceptible to both coastal and surface water flooding.

• Structural walls, floors and ceilings
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Damp and rot assessment
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Heating systems and insulation
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Flood risk and location factors

The PO20 postcode covers a diverse range of property types across the Chichester district, from contemporary homes near the coast to traditional flint farmhouses and historic cottages. Our surveyors are familiar with the construction methods typical in this area, including the flint and brick walls found in older village properties, period cottages with traditional timber frames, and more modern developments. This local knowledge allows us to identify issues that may be specific to properties in this part of West Sussex.

Coastal exposure is a significant factor for properties in areas like Selsey, West Wittering and East Wittering within PO20. Salt air can accelerate the deterioration of external fixtures, metal elements and rendering. Our inspectors specifically assess the condition of external walls, roof coverings, windows and doors for signs of salt corrosion or moisture damage that may not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye. We also check for evidence of past flooding or water ingress in properties near the coast or in low-lying areas.

The presence of listed buildings in the PO20 area, including Grade II listed properties in west Selsey and other villages, requires particular attention during our survey. While a Level 2 survey provides valuable information about listed properties, we will advise if the property's listed status or location within a conservation area requires additional specialist assessments. Our report will flag any concerns about compliance with listed building regulations or potential restrictions on future modifications.

New build properties in the PO20 area, including developments in West Wittering and East Wittering, also require careful inspection. Even newly constructed homes can have defects ranging from subsidence in recently filled ground to issues with build quality. Our surveyors check the condition of recently built properties thoroughly, identifying any snagging issues that may need addressing with the developer or warranty provider.

• Coastal exposure and salt air effects
• Traditional flint and brick construction
• Flood risk in low-lying areas
• Listed building considerations
• Older period property defects
• Modern development quality