RICS Level 2 Survey in Selling, Kent

Our RICS Level 2 Survey in Selling provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. We assess the overall condition of the property and rate each element on a scale from "good" to "urgent repairs needed." The survey includes a market valuation, which is particularly valuable in the current Kent market where property prices have seen variation over the past year. Our team provides insurance reinstatement figures and compares your property against similar homes in the Selling area to give you context for any defects identified.

Our inspectors pay particular attention to issues common in Selling's housing stock. Many properties in this area were built before 1945, meaning they often feature traditional construction methods that require specialist knowledge. We check for signs of damp, which is a frequent concern in older brick-built properties, as well as roof condition, timber defects, and the state of any extensions or alterations that may have been carried out over the years. The prevalence of Victorian and inter-war properties in the ME13 area means our surveyors are well-versed in identifying the specific defects that affect these age groups of housing.

The report we provide includes clear, colour-coded ratings that make it easy to identify which issues require immediate attention and which are less urgent. We also provide insurance reinstatement figures and a detailed analysis of how the property compares to similar homes in the Selling area. This helps you negotiate with confidence whether you are asking for repairs to be completed or seeking a reduction in the purchase price to account for identified defects. Our reports are designed to be practical guides that help you understand exactly what you are buying.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Market valuation

Our experience surveying properties throughout Selling and the ME13 postcode area means we know exactly what to look for when inspecting homes in this part of Kent. Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, which make up a significant portion of the local housing stock, frequently show signs of rising damp due to the absence or failure of modern damp-proof courses. Penetrating damp is also common, particularly in properties with aging roof coverings or damaged pointing to the external walls. The solid wall construction typical of these period properties lacks the cavity wall insulation that helps protect newer homes from moisture penetration.

Roof defects are another major finding in our Selling surveys. Many period properties feature traditional slate or clay tile roofs that, while durable, eventually require attention. We commonly identify slipped tiles, deteriorated lead flashing around chimneys, and rot in timber rafters and felting. These issues can lead to water ingress and significant repair costs if not addressed promptly. Our surveyors also check the condition of chimney stacks, which are a particular feature of Victorian properties in the area. The harsh Kent winters can accelerate deterioration of these roof elements, making regular inspection essential.

The electrical and plumbing systems in older Selling properties often date from the original construction or from relatively modern replacements that may now be approaching the end of their lifespan. We visually inspect the consumer unit, wiring, and plumbing to identify potential safety hazards and areas that may require upgrading. While we do not test every circuit or pipe, we highlight systems that appear outdated or non-compliant with current regulations, allowing you to arrange for a qualified electrician or plumber to investigate further before completing your purchase. This is particularly important given that many older properties in the area may still have legacy rubber or cloth-covered wiring that poses a fire risk.

Properties throughout the Selling area reflect the diverse construction history of Kent, with housing types ranging from early Victorian terraces to contemporary detached homes. The predominant construction method for period properties in this area is solid brick walls, typically constructed with lime mortar rather than modern cement. This traditional approach provides excellent breathability but requires different maintenance considerations compared to modern cavity wall construction. Our surveyors understand these differences and can identify issues specific to traditional building methods.

Inter-war semi-detached properties, which form a substantial part of the housing stock in the Faversham area, were typically built with cavity walls but often feature timber framed windows set into solid brick reveals. These properties commonly have concrete tile roofs and may incorporate decorative timber fascias and soffits that can be prone to rot if not properly maintained. Our inspection process covers all these elements systematically, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Many homes in Selling benefit from Suspended timber floors at ground level, which were standard construction until the mid-twentieth century. While these provide good ventilation, they can be susceptible to rot and insect attack, particularly where damp proof membranes are absent or damaged. Our surveyors probe timber floors and joists to assess their condition, identifying any areas of concern that might require further investigation or remediation. Understanding these local construction quirks helps us provide more accurate and useful reports to buyers in the Selling area.

Selling, while a smaller village, is situated within the Swale district of Kent, an area rich in historic buildings and heritage assets. The nearby town of Faversham is renowned for its numerous listed structures, particularly along Abbey Street, and it is highly probable that Selling itself contains listed buildings and properties within conservation areas. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing older properties and understand the additional considerations that come with owning a listed building or a property in a conservation area. We can identify visible issues that may affect the property's heritage status and advise on appropriate next steps.

If you are purchasing a listed property in or near Selling, you should be aware that certain repairs and alterations may require listed building consent from the local authority. Our RICS Level 2 Survey will flag any obvious issues related to the property's heritage status, though we always recommend that buyers of listed properties consider a more detailed RICS Level 3 Building Survey, which provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's construction, materials, and condition. This is particularly important given the traditional construction methods used in Kent's older properties, which often involve lime mortar, solid walls, and timber frames that require specialist maintenance. The cost of getting this wrong can be significant, making the additional survey investment worthwhile.

Properties in conservation areas may also be subject to specific planning restrictions that limit what you can do with the building or the land surrounding it. Our surveyors will note any visible alterations or extensions that may have been carried out without the necessary permissions, giving you a clearer picture of any potential compliance issues before you commit to the purchase. This is especially relevant in areas like Selling, where the character of the village is protected by planning controls designed to preserve its historic appearance.