RICS Level 2 Survey in Tillington

Our Level 2 Home Survey provides a detailed assessment of all accessible areas of the property, examining the main elements of construction including walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and fixed fittings. The surveyor will identify any visible defects, explain their potential impact on the property, and provide recommendations for further investigation or repair. In Tillington, where many properties are of traditional construction with solid walls, we pay particular attention to signs of damp penetration, condensation issues, and the condition of original timber-framed elements that characterise many homes in this part of West Sussex.

The survey includes a thorough inspection of the roof space where accessible, checking the condition of rafters, joists, insulation, and any visible signs of water ingress or pest infestation. Our surveyors examine the condition of chimney stacks, which are a common feature on period properties throughout the Tillington area. We also assess the condition of external render, brickwork, and stonework, noting any cracks, deterioration, or signs of movement that might indicate structural concerns requiring further specialist assessment.

We inspect all bathrooms, kitchens, and utility spaces, checking plumbing connections, water pressure, and the condition of seals around baths, showers, and sinks. Electrical safety is also addressed, with visual checks of consumer units, wiring conditions where visible, and the presence of adequate earthing. Our surveyors will identify any obvious fire safety concerns, particularly in older properties where original features may have been modified or where DIY alterations might have compromised safety standards.

The local geography around Tillington, particularly the areas near the River Rother flood plains, can influence property conditions. Our surveyors are familiar with how proximity to water courses may affect damp conditions in older properties, and we pay particular attention to any signs of previous flooding or water damage that could impact your investment.

• Walls and structural elements
• Roof covering and condition
• Chimneys and flashings
• Floors, stairs, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Damp and timber assessment

Properties in Tillington and the wider West Sussex area often present specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. The village contains a significant number of older properties, many dating back to the Georgian or Victorian periods, with some even older timber-framed buildings. These older properties commonly exhibit issues related to their age, including deteriorating solid brickwork, worn roofing materials, and outdated electrical and plumbing systems that may not meet current regulations. The presence of properties with original features like those found at The Old Post House, with its exposed beams and original fireplaces, indicates a housing stock that requires experienced surveyors who understand traditional construction methods.

Damp penetration represents one of the most frequently identified issues in period properties throughout the Chichester district. Properties with solid walls are particularly susceptible to rising and penetrating damp, especially where original damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify signs of damp, determine likely causes, and recommend appropriate remediation measures. We also check the condition of timber elements, looking for evidence of wood-rot, beetle infestation, or other timber defects that can compromise structural integrity. The proximity of some Tillington properties to the River Rother means we pay additional attention to potential moisture ingress from groundwater.

The condition of roofing on older properties in Tillington deserves particular attention. Many period homes feature traditional clay tile or slate roofs that may have exceeded their expected lifespan. We inspect for missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated mortar in ridge lines, and condition of lead flashings around chimneys and valleys. Our reports clearly identify any urgent repairs needed to prevent water ingress and provide cost estimates for remediation. Given the age of much of the housing stock in the village, we often identify roofing works that need addressing within the first few years of ownership.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Tillington properties frequently require updating to meet modern standards. We identify outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, and older rubber or fabric-insulated wiring that may still be present in properties that have not been fully renovated. Plumbing defects, including galvanized steel pipes that have corroded internally and lead supply pipes, are commonly found in properties built before the 1970s. Our detailed reporting helps you understand the scope of any required upgrades.

• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof deterioration and tile damage
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Plumbing system defects
• Structural movement or cracking
• Timber rot and pest damage
• Missing or damaged flashings
• Out-of-date heating systems