Chartered Surveyors in Marks Gate
Marks Gate is a largely post-war housing estate on the northern edge of Chadwell Heath, in the borough of Barking & Dagenham and close to the Havering and Redbridge borders. Built out mainly in the 1950s and early 1960s, its housing is dominated by former local-authority homes — much of it now privately owned — including pockets of non-traditional and system-built construction, alongside later infill and some newer development. Knowing exactly what a home is built of is central to buying well here.
As chartered surveyors in Marks Gate, we always begin by establishing the construction. Much of the estate is conventional brick-and-block, showing the usual pattern of ageing roofs and rainwater goods, dated services and later extensions to check. But some homes are of non-traditional or system-built construction; these can be perfectly sound, but certain types can be harder to mortgage or insure unless properly assessed, so we identify the type early and explain what it means. Where homes have been altered since being bought from the council, we check the work is sound and was properly approved.
For a genuinely modern home in good order, a Level 2 (RICS Home Survey) can be proportionate. But for anything non-traditional, system-built or ex-local-authority — which covers much of Marks Gate — or an altered property, a Level 3 (Building Survey) is the wiser choice, giving you an element-by-element inspection and clear advice on repairs, mortgageability and insurance. If you’re buying to a mortgage or need a figure for probate, matrimonial or Help to Buy purposes, our RICS Registered Valuer can provide a Red Book valuation.
We cover Marks Gate and the surrounding area, including Chadwell Heath, Collier Row, Romford and Becontree, with independent, RICS-regulated advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Level 2 or Level 3 survey in Marks Gate?
For anything non-traditional, system-built or ex-local-authority — which is much of Marks Gate — or a heavily altered property, we’d recommend a Level 3 Building Survey. Only a genuinely modern home in good order is usually well served by a Level 2 Home Survey.
How do I know if a Marks Gate house is non-standard construction?
It isn’t always obvious, as many non-traditional homes were later clad or rendered. Signs include concrete panel joints and a repetitive design across a run of houses. A Level 3 Building Survey identifies the likely type and explains what it means for repairs, mortgageability and insurance.
Can I get a mortgage on a non-standard house in Marks Gate?
Often yes, but it depends on the specific type and its condition. We flag the construction type and the likely lending and insurance implications so you can talk to your broker before you’re too far down the line.
Do you cover Chadwell Heath and Collier Row too?
Yes. We survey across Marks Gate and the surrounding area, including Chadwell Heath, Collier Row, Romford and Becontree, matching the inspection to each property’s construction.
Buying in Marks Gate, Chadwell Heath or Collier Row? Get an independent RICS surveyor’s view before you commit. Contact Gibsons Surveyors for advice on the right survey level and a fast, no-obligation quote.