RICS Level 3 Building Survey PO20 3

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey provides an exhaustive examination of all accessible areas of the property. Unlike less comprehensive inspections, this survey assesses the overall condition of the building's structure, including the walls, roof, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows. Our inspectors examine the property from top to bottom, identifying defects, potential future problems, and areas requiring immediate attention or future maintenance. The report includes detailed photographs and clear explanations of each issue found, so you understand exactly what you're purchasing. We take pride in producing reports that are clear, practical, and actionable for homeowners.

The survey addresses all major building elements including the foundation structure, load-bearing walls, roof structure, chimneys, dormer windows, and any extensions or alterations that may have been made to the property. For properties in the PO20 3 area, this is particularly important given the mix of older period homes and newer builds in the region. Many properties in areas like West Wittering and Birdham have been subject to modifications over the years, and our surveyors are trained to identify any structural changes that may affect the building's integrity or require building regulation approval. We commonly encounter properties that have been extended over decades, with various phases of construction that need careful assessment.

We also assess the property's exposure to environmental risks relevant to the PO20 3 area. While flood risk from rivers and the sea is generally very low in this coastal strip, our surveyors note the low risk from surface water runoff and high water table that affects some parts of the area. The report will highlight any concerns regarding drainage, damp penetration, or other moisture-related issues that are particularly relevant for properties in this coastal location. Additionally, we check for signs of subsidence, movement, or structural stress that could indicate underlying problems with the foundations or ground conditions. Properties in low-lying areas near the coast may experience elevated groundwater levels, particularly during wetter months.

Our Level 3 survey specifically includes assessment of thermal efficiency and insulation conditions, which is increasingly important for buyers in the current energy-conscious market. We identify areas where improvements could be made to reduce energy costs and increase comfort. For properties in the PO20 3 area that may have older single-glazed windows or limited insulation, this assessment provides valuable insight into potential upgrade costs. The survey also covers environmental considerations including the presence of asbestos in older properties and potential radon exposure, which while not prevalent in this area, is still checked as part of our thorough approach.

• Comprehensive structural assessment
• Detailed defect analysis
• Environmental risk evaluation
• Future maintenance planning
• Building regulation compliance check
• Market value implications
• Thermal efficiency assessment
• Asbestos screening

The PO20 3 postcode sector covers an attractive stretch of West Sussex coastline and countryside, including the villages of Birdham, West Wittering, and the northern outskirts of Chichester. This area offers a diverse range of housing, from modest terraced houses and bungalows to substantial detached family homes and waterside properties. The average property price in the sector reflects this variety, with semi-detached homes averaging around £348,900 and terraced properties at approximately £225,500 in the PO20 3RD area. The area has seen various price movements across different postcode sectors, with PO20 3AA showing a 12% increase on the 2017 peak, while other sectors have experienced corrections from previous highs.

Recent property sales data shows active market activity in the sector, with 23 sales recorded in the PO20 3RD area alone over the past year. The broader PO20 area has seen prices remain relatively stable, with a modest 2.15% decline from the peak in 2022. This stability makes the area attractive for buyers, but also underscores the importance of a thorough survey to ensure you're getting value for money. New build developments in the area, such as those at Woodgate Park (starting from £310,000), offer modern housing options, while the existing housing stock includes many properties that would benefit from the detailed assessment a Level 3 survey provides.

Properties in the PO20 3 area may face specific challenges related to their coastal location. While flood risk from rivers and the sea is described as very low, the area does have a low risk from surface water runoff and elevated groundwater levels. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying potential moisture ingress issues, particularly in properties close to the coast or in areas with higher water tables. We also check for signs of coastal erosion or salt degradation that can affect buildings in this region, ensuring you have a complete picture of the property's condition. Properties in low-lying areas near drainage channels or watercourses receive particular attention during our inspections.

The local housing market in PO20 3 benefits from several ongoing developments that offer modern alternatives to the existing stock. At Wittering Place in West Wittering, new detached and semi-detached homes are available from £425,000 to over £1,000,000, providing options for various budgets. Even for these newer properties, a Level 3 survey can identify any construction defects or building regulation compliance issues that may not be apparent to buyers. Our experience with new builds in the area has occasionally identified issues with workmanship or materials that required correction by the developers. For period properties, which dominate much of the older housing stock in villages like Birdham, the Level 3 survey is particularly valuable given the complexity of older construction methods and the likelihood of historic alterations.

• Birdham - mix of period cottages and modern homes
• West Wittering - coastal village with diverse property types
• Woodgate - newer developments including Woodgate Park
• Northern Chichester outskirts - larger family homes