RICS Level 2 Survey West Dean Chichester

The RICS Level 2 survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's visible and accessible elements. Our inspectors assess all major areas including the roof, walls, floors, doors, windows, bathrooms, and kitchen, looking for signs of structural movement, dampness, rot, or any other defects that could affect the property's value or safety. The survey follows RICS guidelines and uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each area inspected, making it easy for you to understand which issues require immediate attention and which are minor.

Properties in West Dean often present unique inspection considerations due to their age and construction methods. Many homes in this area were built before 1919 using traditional building techniques, with solid walls rather than modern cavity wall construction. This type of construction can be more susceptible to damp penetration and may require specific advice on ventilation and insulation. Our surveyors are familiar with the common issues affecting period properties in the South Downs region and will provide tailored advice relevant to your specific property. Properties along The Warren and Midhurst Road particularly exemplify this older housing stock, with many dating back to the 1800s.

The survey also includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost assessment, which can be invaluable for properties in areas like West Dean where unique architectural features and Listed Building status may affect rebuild costs. If the property is within the South Downs National Park, there may also be specific planning considerations that affect how repairs and alterations can be carried out, and our reports will highlight these where relevant. For properties like those along Cobblers Row or properties near the historic church, the rebuild cost assessment is particularly important given the specialized materials often required for repairs to historic buildings.

• Roof and chimney condition
• Wall structure and damp assessment
• Window and door functionality
• Floor and ceiling condition
• Plumbing and electrical visible components
• Damp and rot inspection
• Boundary wall and outbuilding condition

The housing stock in West Dean and the surrounding Chichester area presents several common issues that our surveyors frequently identify during Level 2 inspections. Given that a significant proportion of properties were built before 1919, problems with damp are among the most frequently encountered defects. Traditional solid-wall construction lacks the cavity found in modern properties, making these homes more vulnerable to penetrating damp, especially in the exposed conditions that can occur in the South Downs. Our surveyors use moisture meters and their expertise to assess the extent and cause of any damp problems identified.

Roof conditions are another critical area of focus for properties in this region. Older properties may have original slate or tile roofs that have been repaired over the years with mismatched materials, while some West Dean properties feature thatched roofs that require specialist inspection and maintenance. Properties along Midhurst Road include examples of Grade II listed thatched cottages which present unique assessment considerations. Chimneys on period properties are also common areas of concern, with many showing signs of weathering, mortar decay, or structural movement that could lead to water ingress or safety issues. Our Level 2 survey provides detailed assessments of these elements so you know exactly what maintenance is required.

Electrical systems in older properties often require particular attention. Many homes in the West Dean area will have wiring that does not meet current regulations, and consumer units may be outdated or non-compliant. While our survey is a visual inspection and not a full electrical test, we will note any obvious concerns and recommend that a qualified electrician conducts a more thorough Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) before you move in. Similarly, plumbing systems in period properties may contain old lead pipes or galvanized steel pipes that are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure, issues that we highlight in our reports.

The mix of property ages in West Dean also means that some homes may have been extended or altered over the years, and our surveyors check for any signs of poor workmanship or structural issues arising from these modifications. Properties in Springfield Close, built between 1980-1989, represent the more modern stock in the area and may present different issues such as concerns with cavity wall insulation or more recent building defects. We assess all visible alterations and their impact on the overall property condition.