RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Bersted

The Bersted housing market offers diverse property types, from contemporary townhouses in the new Bersted Park development to historic cottages in the North Bersted conservation area. This variety means that every property carries different risks and potential issues. A RICS Level 3 Survey is particularly valuable in this area because it provides a thorough assessment tailored to the specific construction type, age, and condition of the property you are purchasing. Our surveyors examine everything from the foundation movement that can affect older properties to the construction quality of new-build homes in developments like Nursery Fields and Luker Place.

Properties in Bersted range from modern homes built to current building regulations to period properties that may require more detailed investigation. The area includes several listed buildings, such as the Grade II* St Mary Magdalene Church in South Bersted and various Grade II properties along Chichester Road in North Bersted, including numbers 373 and 375, Apple Tree Cottage, Homing Cottage, Green Farmhouse, and The Royal Oak Public House. If you are considering purchasing a historic property, the Level 3 Survey is essential as it identifies issues common to older constructions, including potential structural movement, outdated electrical systems, and the condition of traditional building materials like lime mortar and oak framing.

Our Bersted surveyors understand the local geography and how it affects properties. The area has identified flood risk zones associated with the Aldingbourne Rife, affecting locations near Addison Way, Riverside Caravan Park, and the South Bersted industrial estate. Properties on Durban Road and areas near Shripney Lane have experienced flooding in the past, including flood water affecting the Tesco car park on Shripney Road. A Level 3 Survey will assess the property's vulnerability to flood damage and dampness, providing you with crucial information about potential future repair costs and any flood resilience measures that may be needed.

The ongoing expansion at Land West of Bersted (SD3) represents a major investment in the local area, with outline planning permission approved for up to 2,200 residential dwellings including affordable housing, employment space, retail facilities, and a new primary school. If you are considering a property in one of these new developments, our surveyors can assess the construction quality and identify any potential issues with the build. We check everything from the quality of brickwork and mortar joints to the installation of damp proof courses and ventilation systems, giving you confidence in your new home.

• Terraced properties in Bersted
• Semi-detached family homes
• Detached houses in North Bersted
• Modern flats and apartments
• Period cottages and listed buildings
• New-build properties

Bersted, located in the Arun district of West Sussex, encompasses both North Bersted and South Bersted, offering a diverse range of housing to suit different buyer needs. The area has seen significant development in recent years, with new estates bringing modern amenities while retaining its historical character through conservation areas and listed buildings. The population stands at approximately 11,291, with home ownership rates varying between 53.52% in North Bersted and 58.71% in South Bersted. This mix of owner-occupiers and renters creates a vibrant community with properties ranging from traditional family homes to modern apartments.

The Bersted Park development exemplifies the modern approach to housing in the area, featuring 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom townhouses with traditional architecture using white and red brick facades. The development includes a primary school, a community centre, and sports facilities, making it popular with families. Meanwhile, Nursery Fields by David Wilson Homes offers 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes with modern features including photovoltaic solar panels and EV chargers, appealing to buyers seeking energy-efficient properties. Luker Place, developed by Lovell, offers 2, 3, and 4-bedroom properties described as modern, energy-efficient, and move-in ready.

The ongoing development at Land West of Bersted represents a major expansion for the area, with outline planning permission approved for up to 2,200 residential dwellings. This significant investment in the local area includes provisions for affordable housing, employment space, retail facilities, and a new primary school. The site, sold to BDW (a division of Barratt Homes), will transform the western edge of Bersted and bring thousands of new residents to the area. For buyers considering properties in these new developments, a Level 3 Survey provides assurance that the construction meets current standards and identifies any potential issues with the build quality.

Flood risk is a consideration for some properties in Bersted, particularly those near the Aldingbourne Rife. Properties in identified flood zones may require more detailed assessment of damp proofing, drainage, and flood resilience measures. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these risks and will provide specific recommendations for properties in affected areas. We check the condition of damp proof courses, the type and condition of drainage systems, and the elevation of properties relative to surrounding ground levels to determine flood vulnerability.

The historic character of Bersted, particularly in North Bersted around the conservation area, means that many properties require careful assessment. Period properties may have traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern buildings, including solid walls instead of cavity walls, lime mortar instead of cement, and original timber windows rather than double glazing. Our surveyors understand these construction methods and can identify issues specific to older properties, such as timber rot in windows, crumbling lime mortar, and the condition of thatch or slate roofs on historic cottages.