RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Hunston

Our RICS Level 3 Survey in Hunston provides a comprehensive examination of every accessible part of the property. The survey includes a thorough visual inspection of the roof structure, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows. Our inspectors assess the condition of damp-proof courses, insulation, and ventilation systems. We examine the condition of any outbuildings, garages, and the general boundaries of the property. For Hunston's mix of older terraced properties and newer detached homes, this comprehensive approach ensures you understand exactly what you're purchasing.

The Level 3 Survey specifically addresses structural elements that a Level 2 survey would only flag superficially. Our inspectors will examine load-bearing walls, joists, beams, and the foundation structure where visible. In Hunston, where we know some properties date back to the Victorian or Edwardian periods and may feature traditional solid brick walls, our surveyors pay particular attention to any signs of structural movement, subsidence, or deterioration that could indicate deeper problems. We have found that some of the older terraced properties in the village centre suffer from original lime mortar pointing that has degraded over decades, creating potential damp penetration routes.

Unlike basic surveys, the Level 3 provides specific advice on repairs and maintenance recommendations, prioritising issues by urgency. We include cost estimates for necessary work, helping you budget for any remedial work the property may need. This proves particularly valuable in Hunston's current market, where properties are selling quickly and buyers need confidence in our investment. Our reports categorise issues as urgent, desirable, or cosmetic, allowing you to negotiate effectively with sellers or plan your future expenditure.

We also assess the property's compliance with current building regulations, particularly relevant for properties that have been extended or altered over the years. Many homes in Hunston have had conservatories added, lofts converted, or kitchen extensions built, and our survey checks whether these modifications have the necessary approvals. This helps you avoid unexpected costs or legal issues after completion.

• Complete structural inspection
• Detailed condition assessment
• Priority repair recommendations
• Cost guidance for works needed
• Legal implications noted
• Property valuation included

Hunston's housing stock reflects its evolution from a small village to a sought-after suburb of Chichester. The village contains a mix of property ages and styles, from older terraced cottages that may feature traditional solid brick walls and original sash windows, through to post-war semi-detached houses built with cavity wall construction, to modern detached properties constructed to contemporary building regulations. This variety means each property requires a tailored inspection approach. The Victorian and Edwardian properties in the older part of the village often have original features such as cast iron rainwater goods and decorative brickwork that require careful assessment.

Many properties in Hunston feature brick external walls, which is typical for the West Sussex region. Our surveyors understand how to assess brickwork for signs of deterioration, pointing issues, and structural movement. We also examine any render or paintwork that may be hiding underlying problems. For properties with original features, we note their condition and advise on any restoration or maintenance requirements. We have found that some properties in the village have inappropriate modern cement-based pointing that traps moisture and causes internal damp problems - a common issue with period properties that have been "improved" over the years.

The proximity of Hunston to Chichester means many residents work in the city or commute further afield. This influences the types of properties in demand and their current market values. Our Level 3 Survey includes a property valuation element, helping you understand whether the asking price reflects the property's current condition and any issues identified during our inspection. This proves especially valuable in the current market where prices have been rising steadily. Our valuers use local comparable data from the Hunston and Chichester areas to ensure accuracy.

New build properties in Hunston, while generally in good condition, still benefit from a Level 3 Survey. Modern construction defects can occur, and our inspection will identify any issues with insulation, ventilation, or building regulation compliance. We have seen cases where new build properties have defects that are not immediately visible, such as inadequate ventilation in roof spaces or issues with window installations that could lead to damp penetration over time.