RICS Level 2 Survey in Preston, Dover

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible parts of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, checking for signs of damp, rot, timber defects, and structural movement. The survey also includes an assessment of the property's services, such as the electrical system, plumbing, and heating, so you can identify any outdated or unsafe installations that might need upgrading. In Preston, where many homes are over 50 years old, these checks are particularly important as older properties often have electrical and plumbing systems that don't meet current regulations.

We also assess the exterior of the property in detail. This includes the roof covering, chimneys, gutters, and fascias, all of which can reveal problems that aren't obvious from inside the house. Our surveyors look for signs of water ingress, missing or damaged tiles, and any evidence of structural movement that might indicate subsidence. Given the clay soils that exist in parts of Kent, this structural assessment is essential for properties in the Preston area, as foundations can be affected by soil shrinkage during dry periods. We particularly check properties near the village centre where older drainage systems may be failing.

The survey report includes clear colour-coded ratings that immediately highlight the severity of any issues we find. Properties in Preston often receive ratings for damp conditions, particularly rising damp in older brick-built homes, and for roof defects that are common in properties with aging felt or tiles. We also check for any potential risks from nearby trees, which can cause subsidence issues in properties with shallow foundations, especially in areas with shrinkable clay subsoil. Our reports use the RICS traffic light system so you can quickly identify which defects need immediate attention versus those that can be monitored over time.

Beyond the main structural elements, we also inspect boundaries, outbuildings, and any shared areas that might affect your property. For terraced houses along The Street or Church Lane, we'll check the condition of any shared walls and drainage running to the main sewer. We'll note any obvious breaches of building regulations that might require retrospective consent, which is particularly relevant for older properties where previous owners may have carried out unapproved modifications.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Timber conditions and rot
• Windows and doors
• Electrical installations
• Plumbing and heating systems
• Boundaries and exterior elements

The housing stock in Preston reflects its history as a historic Kent village, with many properties built between the late Victorian period and the inter-war years. These older homes often have solid brick walls rather than the cavity wall construction used in modern properties, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing traditional brick construction and can identify whether any damp proof courses are present and functioning correctly. We often find that solid wall properties in the village lack adequate ventilation, leading to condensation issues that can be mistaken for penetrating damp.

Roof defects are among the most common issues we find in Preston properties. Many older homes have roofs with aging felt underneath the tiles, which can deteriorate over time and allow water to penetrate. We check the condition of roof tiles, flashings, and chimneys, looking for signs of past leaks or current water ingress. In some properties, we also find that roof space ventilation is inadequate, which can lead to condensation problems and timber decay. Properties with original clay tiles often show signs of frost damage given the cold Kent winters, and we'll note any tiles that have become porous or cracked.

Given the geology of Kent, with its mix of chalk and clay soils, we pay particular attention to signs of subsidence or structural movement. Properties in areas with clay soil can be affected by ground movement, particularly if there are large trees nearby that draw moisture from the soil. Our surveyors look for cracking in walls, doors that stick, and other signs that might indicate foundation movement. While significant subsidence is relatively rare, identifying early warning signs can save you from costly repairs down the line. We also check for any history of mining activity in the area, which can affect properties across Kent.

Electrical and plumbing systems in Preston properties often require updating. Many homes still have original cast iron plumbing that has corroded over decades, or rubber-backed electrical wiring that was installed in the 1960s and 1970s but is now considered a fire risk. Our survey will identify these hazards and advise on what works are needed to bring the property up to modern safety standards. Given the cost of rewiring and replumbing, these findings can significantly impact your negotiation with the seller.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and leaks
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Structural cracking
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Inadequate insulation
• Chimney defects
• Gutter and drainage issues