RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Faversham

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey provides an exhaustive examination of all visible and accessible elements of the property. Unlike basic valuations, this thorough inspection covers the entire structure including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, chimneys, and foundations. Our surveyor will assess the condition of joinery, inspect windows and doors for fit and function, examine the condition of all bathrooms and kitchens, and evaluate the condition of any outbuildings or garages. The report includes detailed photographs and clear descriptions of any defects found, categorising them by severity and explaining the potential implications for the property.

Given Faversham's unique property landscape, our surveyors pay particular attention to the specific challenges affecting homes in this area. The town's significant stock of medieval timber-framed buildings, Victorian terraces, and modern new builds each present distinct inspection requirements. Our inspectors understand how Faversham's clay-rich soils can affect foundations, how the proximity to Faversham Creek creates flood considerations, and how the conservation area restrictions impact allowable repairs. This local knowledge ensures your survey addresses the issues that genuinely matter for Faversham properties.

The Level 3 survey is particularly valuable for older properties, which make up a substantial proportion of Faversham's housing stock. Many homes in the town centre and surrounding conservation areas date back to the 15th century, with numerous timber-framed properties that have been modified over centuries. These buildings require experienced assessors who understand traditional construction methods and can identify issues that might not be apparent to less specialised inspectors. Our surveyors recognise the signs of historic repair techniques, understand the implications of past alterations, and can advise on what work may require listed building consent.

Faversham's buildings predominantly feature brick, with a variety of types including handmade sand cast and quality wire cut, often laid in English or Flemish bond. Timber-framed buildings, primarily using oak and Spanish chestnut, are also prevalent, particularly medieval examples, many of which have been plastered over. Our surveyors understand these traditional materials and can identify when inappropriate modern repairs have caused damage to historic fabric.

• Complete structural inspection
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Roof and chimney evaluation
• Foundation and substructure review
• Electrical and plumbing visible evidence
• Energy efficiency visible elements

Dampness ranks among the most frequently identified issues in Faversham properties. The town's older housing stock, combined with its marshland setting, creates ideal conditions for moisture problems. Our surveyors regularly find rising damp caused by failed or non-existent damp proof courses, particularly in Victorian and Edwardian properties where original protections have deteriorated over time. Penetrating damp from defective roof coverings, damaged gutters, or compromised pointing is also common, especially on properties with traditional solid walls that rely on breathable construction. Modern repair techniques aimed at improving energy efficiency can inadvertently reduce natural ventilation in older buildings, leading to mould growth from condensation. Our inspectors assess the severity of any dampness, identify likely causes, and recommend appropriate remediation.

Structural movement, while sometimes harmless, requires expert assessment to determine its significance. Faversham's clay soils make properties susceptible to movement as the ground swells during wet periods and shrinks during droughts. Tree roots, particularly from mature species in the town's historic gardens, can exacerbate this issue by extracting moisture from the soil. Our surveyors examine walls for cracks, assess whether they're active or historic, and determine whether movement represents a serious structural concern or simply the normal settlement expected in older properties. We identify the type of crack (vertical, diagonal, or stair-step), measure its width, and evaluate whether it warrants further investigation by a structural engineer.

Roof defects are another common finding, particularly on older properties with traditional slate or clay tile roofs. Our inspectors examine ridge tiles for movement, check valleys for debris accumulation, assess the condition of flat roof areas, and evaluate chimney stacks for signs of deterioration. Given Faversham's age profile, many properties have roofs that are original or have been repaired using mismatched materials, and our surveyors can advise on the remaining lifespan of such coverings. We also assess the condition of lead flashings, which can deteriorate over time and cause leaks.

The quality of past repairs and alterations is something our surveyors examine closely. Faversham's conservation areas and the Article 4(2) Direction mean that many repairs must be carried out using traditional materials and techniques. However, our inspectors frequently find modern cement-based mortars used on historic brickwork, uPVC windows fitted without planning permission in listed buildings, and inappropriate modern treatments applied to traditional lime-plastered walls. These issues not only represent potential planning violations but can also cause long-term damage to historic fabric.