RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Marden, Chichester

The Marden villages and surrounding Chichester area present unique challenges for property purchasers. Many homes in this area are constructed using traditional building methods that differ significantly from modern construction, including solid walls, timber-framed bays, and shallow foundations. Properties built before 1920 typically lack modern damp-proof courses and cavity wall insulation, making them susceptible to rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation issues that a trained surveyor can identify during a detailed inspection. Our surveyors have extensive experience with these traditional construction methods and understand exactly what to look for when assessing period properties in this area.

The local geology also plays a significant role in property condition. While the chalk bedrock underlying the Marden villages provides good drainage, surrounding areas in the Chichester district contain shrinkable clay soils that are highly susceptible to moisture changes. This can lead to subsidence or heave movement, particularly where trees are present near foundations. Our surveyors understand these local ground conditions and know exactly what signs to look for when assessing properties in this area, including the characteristic crack patterns that indicate different types of ground movement. The chalk soils of the South Downs escarpment, where Up Marden and West Marden are situated, can provide relatively stable foundations, but properties built on the alluvial gley soils found in the Ems Valley floodplain near West Marden face different challenges.

With approximately 65% of housing stock in Chichester district being over 50 years old, and with numerous Grade I and Grade II listed buildings in the Marden villages, the need for a comprehensive RICS Level 3 survey becomes clear. These older properties often conceal defects that are invisible to untrained eyes, from deteriorating wooden lintels above windows to hidden timber decay in floor structures. Our detailed reports include specific recommendations for remedial works and estimated costs, helping you make an informed decision about your purchase. The three Conservation Areas covering East Marden, North Marden, and West Marden contain numerous properties requiring special consideration, including the Grade I listed Churches of St Mary, St Peter, and St Michael and All Angels.

Flood risk is another important consideration for properties in this area. West Marden has experienced flooding in the past, with the B2146 road closed due to high water levels. The broader Chichester area is at risk from surface water flooding, fluvial flooding from the River Lavant, and groundwater flooding. Our surveyors assess flood risk indicators during every inspection, noting any visible signs of previous flood damage, damp evidence at lower levels, and drainage conditions that could affect the property. With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, understanding flood risk has become increasingly important for property purchasers in this area.

• Properties over 50 years old
• Listed buildings
• Properties showing signs of structural movement
• Period farmhouses and cottages
• Properties with non-standard construction
• Homes in flood risk areas

Properties in the Marden villages frequently exhibit defects related to their age and construction type. Damp issues are particularly common, with rising damp affecting many solid-walled properties built before the 1930s. Penetrating damp often results from defective gutters, damaged roof coverings, or porous external walls. Our surveyors use their knowledge of local building methods to identify the source of moisture problems and distinguish between different types of damp affecting the property. The flint rubble walls found on many traditional cottages, while visually attractive, can be particularly susceptible to moisture penetration if pointing has deteriorated over time.

Structural movement is another significant concern in this area. While the chalk geology underlying the Marden villages offers relatively stable ground conditions, properties built on clay soils in surrounding areas can suffer from subsidence or heave. Signs of structural movement include diagonal cracks wider than 3mm, particularly around window and door openings, doors and windows that stick or do not close properly, and sloping or uneven floors. Our Level 3 survey provides a detailed assessment of any movement observed, including whether it appears to be active and what remedial works may be required. The presence of trees near properties, particularly in areas with shrinkable clay soils, increases the risk of foundation movement as trees draw moisture from the ground.

Timber decay, including wet rot and dry rot, commonly affects older properties with poor ventilation or ongoing moisture issues. Woodworm infestation can also cause significant structural damage if left untreated. Roof structures in period properties often show signs of deterioration, including defective flashings, worn roof coverings, and inadequate insulation. The RICS Level 3 report provides specific details on the condition of all accessible timbers and identifies any areas requiring specialist treatment. Many properties in the Marden area feature traditional pegged roof trusses that require careful inspection to ensure structural integrity.

Outdated electrical and plumbing systems are frequently encountered in older properties, particularly those that have not been modernised in recent years. Properties built before 1969 may still have lead water pipes, while those constructed before 1999 may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, or roof materials. Our surveyors note the condition of all visible services and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers where necessary. Energy efficiency is another consideration, as period properties often lack adequate insulation, resulting in higher running costs and potential issues with condensation.

• Rising damp in solid-walled properties
• Structural cracks in walls and foundations
• Timber decay in floor joists and roof structures
• Defective gutters and drainage systems
• Roof covering deterioration
• Outdated electrical and plumbing systems
• Asbestos in pre-1999 properties
• Inadequate insulation in period homes