RICS Level 3 Building Survey West Wittering

A RICS Level 3 survey, also known as a full structural survey, represents the most comprehensive inspection option available. Our inspectors systematically examine all accessible areas of the property including the roof, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows. We assess the condition of the construction, identify any defects or potential problems, and provide clear recommendations for repairs or further investigation where necessary. The inspection covers both the main dwelling and any attached or detached outbuildings that form part of the property.

The report includes detailed photographs showing specific defects, an overall condition rating for each major element of the property, and advice on prioritising any remedial works identified. For properties in West Wittering, where the majority of sales involve detached homes averaging over £880,000, this thorough approach provides essential protection for your significant investment. We also include a market value assessment based on the property's current condition, which can be invaluable during price negotiations.

Our inspectors pay particular attention to areas that commonly cause problems in local properties. We check roof coverings for signs of wear or damage, examine walls for cracks or movement, inspect timber elements for rot or insect damage, and assess the condition of damp proof courses and ventilation systems. In coastal areas like West Wittering, we pay extra attention to the effects of salt-laden air on external joinery, rendered walls, and metal fixings. The resulting report gives you a complete picture of the property's condition before you commit to the purchase.

We inspect inaccessible areas where safe and practical to do so, including entering roof spaces through hatchways and examining sub-floor areas where accessible. Our surveyor will use probe testers on timber elements where decay is suspected and will lift accessible drain covers to check drainage runs. Any areas that cannot be inspected will be clearly noted in the report, along with recommendations for how further investigation could be arranged if needed.

• Complete structural inspection
• Detailed defect identification
• Condition ratings for all elements
• Priority recommendations for repairs
• Professional photographs throughout
• Market value assessment included

The West Wittering property market features a high proportion of detached homes, many of which were built during different periods of construction. From older period properties to more modern developments, each brings its own potential issues that our inspectors know how to identify. The coastal location of West Wittering means properties are exposed to maritime conditions that can accelerate wear on external materials, particularly to roof coverings, render, and timber joinery. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying the specific defects that affect properties in this coastal environment.

Recent market data shows property prices in West Wittering have experienced significant movement, with prices down around 18-23% compared to the previous year. This shifting market makes it even more important to understand exactly what you're buying. A comprehensive survey helps you make an informed decision and can provide valuable leverage in price negotiations when defects are identified. In a market where properties may be sitting longer, sellers may be more receptive to price adjustments based on survey findings.

Many properties in the West Wittering area benefit from attractive garden settings and views across Chichester Harbour. Our inspectors examine not only the main structure but also outbuildings, boundaries, and drainage systems that affect the overall value and usability of the property. The comprehensive nature of the Level 3 survey means you receive advice on all these aspects, not just the main building. We check boundary walls and fences, assess the condition of garages and sheds, and evaluate the effectiveness of drainage systems.

The Manhood Peninsula location means many properties are within reach of Chichester Harbour and its associated environmental considerations. While formal flood risk assessment falls outside a building survey, our inspectors will note visible signs of past flooding, water staining, or drainage issues that could indicate potential problems. We also check the gradient of gardens and the condition of any retaining walls, which are particularly important in properties with sloping sites.

• Coastal exposure considerations
• Period property construction issues
• Drainage and ground conditions
• Outbuilding condition
• Garden and boundary issues
• Parking and access

Based on our experience surveying properties across the West Wittering area, we regularly encounter several recurring issue types that buyers should be aware of. The coastal environment creates specific challenges that affect building materials more rapidly than in inland locations. Salt-laden air accelerates the deterioration of metal fixings, external timber, and rendered finishes, meaning older properties often require more frequent maintenance than buyers might expect.

Many properties in West Wittering and the surrounding villages were built during the mid-to-late twentieth century boom, meaning a significant proportion of the housing stock is now approaching or passing the 50-year mark. At this age, original building elements start to reach the end of their expected lifespan. We commonly find issues with flat roof coverings, original windows, and drainage systems that were installed when the properties were first built. Our detailed inspection will identify which elements are reaching the end of their useful life and need replacement.

The underlying ground conditions in parts of the Manhood Peninsula can vary, and we pay close attention to signs of movement or settlement in the structure. While major subsidence is rare in this area, we frequently identify minor movement that has occurred over time, particularly in properties with shallower foundations. Our report will distinguish between historic movement that has stabilised and any signs of ongoing movement that might require further investigation by a structural engineer.

Drainage is another area where we often find issues in West Wittering properties. The local soil conditions and the proximity to the water table in some locations mean that drainage systems need to work effectively. We inspect gullies, inspection chambers, and drainage runs where accessible, and will report on any signs of blockages, poor falls, or root intrusion that could lead to problems. Given the high water table in some areas, we also check that any basement or cellar spaces have adequate waterproofing.

On the day of your RICS Level 3 survey in West Wittering, our surveyor will arrive at the property at the agreed time and begin with a thorough external inspection of the building. This includes examining the roof coverings, chimneys, parapet walls, and rain water goods, as well as assessing the condition of external walls, windows, and doors. We measure the property and take numerous photographs of both the overall building and specific defects we identify.

The internal inspection follows, covering all accessible rooms and spaces including any loft hatch and sub-floor areas where safe access is possible. We open windows and doors to check their operation, inspect built-in furniture where relevant, and examine the condition of services such as heating systems and plumbing. Our surveyor will check the condition of the electrics visually, though a full electrical test falls outside the scope of a building survey.

We encourage you to accompany our surveyor during the inspection. This gives you the opportunity to see any issues firsthand and to ask questions about the property there and then. The surveyor can explain what they're looking at and point out any areas of concern in real time. If you cannot attend in person, we can arrange for a friend, family member, or your conveyancing solicitor to be present on your behalf.

After the inspection, our surveyor returns to the office to prepare your detailed report. The report follows the RICS format and includes an Executive Summary, individual sections for each major building element, a defect summary with photographs, and our recommendations. We aim to deliver the completed report within 5 working days, and we can often accommodate urgent requests when needed.