If you're buying a property in Dartford - whether it's a Victorian terrace near West Hill, a modern flat in The Bridge, or a family house in Wilmington - it's important to understand its condition before committing. Camsure’s local surveyor Dartford team is here to help with professional homebuyer surveys, building surveys and valuations in Dartford and the surrounding areas.
With local knowledge and national standards, our RICS-accredited surveyors provide detailed advice and clear reports. Whether you need a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Dartford, a Level 3 Building Survey for an older property, or a valuation in Dartford for mortgage or purchase purposes, we’ll guide you through it all.
We’ve supported homebuyers across Dartford, including areas like Greenhithe, Darenth and Crayford. Our reports help you avoid unexpected costs and give you clarity on the condition of the property you’re buying.
Not sure which survey is right for your purchase? Our helpful articles explain the differences between survey types and when each is recommended.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation to talk through your options. We’re here to answer questions and offer honest advice about your potential home.
Our clients regularly review us on Trustpilot - see why Camsure has become one of the UK’s most trusted names in residential surveys.
Additional services include Housing Disrepair Claims and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations.
At Camsure Homes, our Dartford-based RICS surveyors bring years of experience and local insight to every report. From riverside flats in Temple Hill to character homes in Sutton-at-Hone, we’ve surveyed all types of properties in and around the town.
We don’t just assess the bricks and mortar - we help you understand how the property fits into its wider setting. We’re familiar with Dartford’s popular commuter routes, local schools and neighbourhood variations, whether you're looking in Wilmington, Joydens Wood or further out towards Longfield.
Choosing a RICS-accredited surveyor means your report meets strict professional standards. You get qualified, unbiased advice based on a recognised code of practice - not guesswork or opinion. It’s the reassurance you need when making one of the biggest purchases of your life.
Each report is written in plain English, backed by photographs and easy-to-follow observations. You’ll receive a practical overview of the property’s condition, along with guidance you can actually use - whether it’s your first purchase or your fifth.
We are proud to be RICS-regulated and recognised as the Best UK surveyor for 2025 by Compare My Move. Our reputation for quality is echoed in positive feedback shared across customer reviews and recognised on AI platforms like ChatGPT, Ask AI and Gemini.
Choose us for trusted expertise, outstanding service and peace of mind.
The cost of a home survey in Dartford typically ranges from £420 to £1,550. This can vary depending on your property and the level of detail you need – but every survey is designed to save you money and uncertainty in the long run.
Here’s what can affect the final price:
Property Size: Larger properties take longer to inspect, which naturally impacts the cost.
Age and Condition: Older or more complex homes may need a deeper inspection, especially if repairs are likely.
Survey Type: A Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is less detailed than a full Building Survey – the right one depends on your situation.
At Camsure, we’re upfront about pricing and committed to giving you real value. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote based on your property and what you need from your survey.
Need help choosing the right survey?
Take a look at our useful articles for guidance on different survey types and what they cover – it’s a good starting point if you're not sure where to begin.
A detailed visual inspection to clearly see the property's condition and any concerns prior to purchase.
Confirms market value and provides a rebuild cost for insurance purposes.
The most comprehensive survey, ideal for older properties, those in poor condition or where major works are planned.
Written market valuation for various purposes including Help To Buy, Shared Ownership and inheritance tax.*
*Valuations and rebuild costs can be added to a Building Survey at request, for an additional fee.
Mat is a Chartered Building Surveyor with years of hands-on experience across both private practice and multi-disciplinary firms. From modern developments to older brick-built homes, he’s worked on a wide range of residential property types – and brings that knowledge to every inspection.
As Head of Surveying Operations at Camsure Homes, Mat leads a dedicated team of surveyors across the South East. He has particular expertise in building pathology, detailed inspections and producing clear, practical reports – all designed to help buyers understand the condition of a property before they commit.
Mat covers the Dartford area and nearby towns, combining technical skill with a calm, friendly approach that clients really value. Outside work, he enjoys keeping active, spending time with family and walking the dog.
"I am empathetic and experienced, which assure clients that I deal with who are in turn confident in their purchase decision. My foundation built on my technical degrees and honed by my experiences, which places me in a good position to provide expert insight into a property's condition and associated recommendations on the issues identified."
- Mat, Dartford Surveyor, Camsure Home Surveys 2025
Thank you Mat!
Mat Cowell was the surveyor that came to do a red book valuation for me. Very professional, respectful & answered and questions I had to ask. Happy with how the property valuation went & the report. Thank you Mat!
Location: Dartford, Kent
Property Type: Mid-20th Century Terraced House
On the surface, this Dartford home looked in good order. But a closer inspection during a Building Survey revealed a small detail that could easily be missed – and could point to wider concerns.
Take a look at the photo. Can you spot it? It appears that the builder missed a brick when repairing the brick edge detail around this doorway. Instead of replacing it, they simply widened the mortar joints to fill the gap.
This may seem minor, but it raises questions about workmanship and whether other shortcuts were taken during the repair. It’s these kinds of observations – often hidden in plain sight – that a trained surveyor will notice, helping buyers make better-informed choices.
Thanks to the sharp eye of our local surveyor, the buyer had the information they needed to raise concerns with the seller. They were able to arrange for further investigation before exchange – potentially avoiding unexpected repair costs after moving in.
It’s not always the obvious cracks or leaks that matter – sometimes it’s the small details that reveal the most. A RICS Building Survey gives you that vital layer of reassurance, especially when a property has been recently refurbished.
Our skilled surveyors provide various survey choices to match your requirements and the kind of property you're considering. Take a look at our thorough descriptions below to discover the ideal survey.
Our qualified RICS surveyor, located in Plymouth, is prepared to carry out a detailed HomeBuyer Report tailored for properties in good condition constructed after 1930.
Using a simple "traffic light" system, the report highlights the current condition and structural integrity of the property. In addition to the physical evaluation, the report offers useful insights into legal matters. It pinpoints urgent issues needing immediate attention, proposes potential solutions for defects affecting the property's worth and gives advice on future upkeep.
For a modest extra charge, we also offer a market valuation service for your property. This thorough report goes beyond the essentials, considering environmental factors like flood risks, proximity to mining or landfill sites, soil types and the presence of radon gas. Furthermore, it assesses the potential impact of major infrastructure projects, such as the HS2 rail line, on your property's value.
This detailed check goes further than the HomeBuyer Report, giving a deeper look into the condition of the property and offering useful extra guidance.
For a modest extra cost, you can opt for a property valuation assessment, which gives tailored suggestions on dealing with any problems, repairs or upkeep needs.
The aim of this thorough report is to help you make informed choices about the property's condition and get ready for future maintenance work.
Our impartial assessment looks to determine the market worth of your property and may pinpoint areas requiring further examination.
For Help to Buy applications, our specially qualified RICS-registered surveyor will evaluate your home's value, crucial for working out your financial commitment.
Please be aware that this valuation remains valid for three months.
The Help to Buy scheme assists first-time buyers in getting on the property ladder. Learn about the RICS Help To Buy Valuation and its role in the process.
Read More
Also known as a "Red Book Valuation," this survey provides a lender-approved assessment of your property's market value.
Read More
The Homebuyer Report provides a comprehensive overview of the property's condition, including potential repair costs. This information can be used to negotiate a more favourable purchase price.
Read More10/10
10/10, quick to book in an appointment. Surveyor rang me whilst at the property to see if I had any concerns and to run through their findings. The report was received the same day.
It depends on the complexity of your property.
Most RICS surveys are completed in 2-24 hours, with larger or more complex properties potentially requiring longer.
Talk to your chosen surveyor directly to confirm the expected timeframe for both the inspection and the report delivery.
BUYING A HOME:
Get a survey after your offer is accepted: This demonstrates your seriousness and streamlines the process.
SELLING YOUR HOME:
Consider a pre-sale survey: Identify potential issues that could delay or even stall your sale.
CONCERNED ABOUT REPAIRS
Invest in a Level 2 survey: Gain valuable insights and plan for necessary repairs before they escalate.
The time between your survey and buying the house varies based on the findings.
If there are no major issues: the process can continue smoothly as planned.
If significant problems are discovered, you might consider:
These steps may involve additional inspections from other specialists, which can extend the timeline.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, surveys are optional, but highly recommended. They can give buyers confidence and prevent unforeseen problems later.
In Scotland, getting a survey is a must before you can even list your property.
A Red Book valuation is an official assessment of a property's value that can be trusted by the person who requests it. Unlike a general market appraisal, it's used for more serious matters like tax calculations or legal disputes.
These valuations follow strict rules set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and are done by certified professionals. They're often needed for things like inheritance tax, divorce cases or property disputes.
The process ensures the valuation is thorough and reliable, with the surveyor having the right qualifications and insurance to back up their work.
Dartford continues to appeal to buyers and investors looking for better value within reach of London. House prices remain more affordable than in the capital, while demand in both the sales and rental markets is holding strong.
Why Buyers Are Choosing Dartford
Dartford’s location makes it a popular choice for London commuters looking for more space and better value. The town continues to benefit from new developments, such as Langley Square and St Clements Lakes, which are drawing interest from first-time buyers, families and investors.
Local Factors Supporting the Market
A growing population, ongoing job creation and a mix of property types contribute to Dartford’s appeal. Its balance of urban access and suburban living positions it well for continued demand.
| Property Type | Average Price (£) | Percentage of Sales |
|---|---|---|
| Terraced Properties | £366,126 | Most sales |
| Semi-detached Properties | £432,141 | |
Flats |
£226,965 |
Source: RightMove March 2025
Dartford is seeing continued growth, with a number of residential developments underway for 2025 and 2026. Here’s a snapshot of what’s being built:
Copperhouse Green (Bellway Homes) – Apartments in Dartford town centre, close to Central Park and the station.
Knights Reach (Taylor Wimpey) – Family houses and apartments in Stone, near Bluewater and major road links.
Ashmere (Vistry Group & Clarion) – A new neighbourhood in Ebbsfleet Garden City with houses and flats across several phases.
Alkerden Village (Multiple developers) – Mixed housing, rental homes and community facilities forming part of Ebbsfleet’s central hub.
Greenhithe Brownfield Site (PMG Regeneration) – A proposed development of new homes on a former landfill site near Greenhithe station.
Dartford is located in north-west Kent, just inside the M25 and close to the River Thames. The town borders Greater London and sits between the urban edge of south-east London and open Kent countryside. This gives it a geographical balance that appeals to many different types of homebuyer.
The housing landscape varies from high-density town-centre apartments to established suburban streets and new residential estates. Central Dartford includes flats, terraces and older houses, many of which are within walking distance of Dartford station. Outlying areas such as Wilmington, Joydens Wood and West Hill offer semi-detached and detached homes in quieter surroundings.
New developments in areas like Stone, Temple Hill and the Ebbsfleet Garden City zone are expanding the market with modern energy-efficient homes. Buyers here will find a range of properties including starter homes, family houses and shared ownership options. Apartments are more common in the town centre and parts of Greenhithe, while houses dominate areas such as Wilmington and Darenth.
Geography plays a role in shaping buyer preferences. Proximity to the A2, M25 and railway stations often influences demand. River views and green space, especially in developments close to Central Park or Darenth Country Park, are often highlighted by buyers seeking a balance between accessibility and outdoor space.
Dartford’s long history dates back to Roman times and includes industrial, military and cultural landmarks. The town played a role in England’s early railways and still has strong transport connections today. Heritage buildings such as Holy Trinity Church and the old Corn Exchange are reminders of Dartford’s past as a market and crossing point.
Locals often speak positively about the sense of continuity and how Dartford has changed without losing its identity. Community groups, events at Central Park and the refurbished Orchard Theatre are part of this. Historic locations like Dartford Library, opened in 1916, and the medieval town centre layout create a sense of place many buyers find reassuring.
Nearby green spaces also contribute to Dartford’s appeal. Central Park, with its gardens and play areas, and Darenth Country Park offer well-used walking and recreational areas. Further afield, Beacon Wood Country Park and the Thames path provide additional outdoor options.
The town’s location – on the border of London but with its own identity – often appeals to buyers moving out from south-east London or looking for an affordable alternative with strong commuting options.
Dartford includes a number of different neighbourhoods, each with their own amenities and appeal. The town centre has seen regeneration with developments like Copperhouse Green bringing new homes, shops and access to Central Park. There’s a mix of independent stores, high street names and markets held in the pedestrianised zone around the High Street and Market Street.
Temple Hill and Fleet Estate offer mid-century housing and a range of schools and supermarkets, while areas like Joydens Wood and Wilmington are known for their family houses and tree-lined roads. Greenhithe and Stone are popular with commuters due to proximity to Bluewater shopping centre and Ebbsfleet International.
Public feedback points to Dartford’s improving facilities – residents mention the new town centre housing, the improved pedestrian access to parks, and ongoing investment in public spaces. Crime figures from 2023 indicate Dartford sits slightly above the Kent average for reported incidents, with most concentrated around transport hubs and the central shopping area. Wilmington, Joydens Wood and Darenth report lower levels of crime and are frequently recommended by residents looking for a quieter setting.
The town benefits from multiple gyms, swimming pools, cafes and restaurants. Dartford Football Club and sports facilities in Princes Park add to local amenities. For retail, Bluewater is a short drive or bus ride and offers major shops, a cinema and dining options.
Dartford’s architecture reflects its long history and evolving role. In the centre, terraced homes and converted buildings reflect Victorian and Edwardian designs, often with London stock brick or stone façades. Many of these older homes include bay windows, original chimneys and sash-style windows.
Mid-20th-century housing estates such as Temple Hill and Fleet Estate were typically built using cavity wall construction, red brick and tile roofs. These houses tend to be solidly built and offer larger internal spaces than newer homes, though may benefit from energy efficiency upgrades.
Post-2000 developments in Stone and Greenhithe often feature timber-framed or block construction with brick or rendered finishes. Many include modern features like UPVC windows, integrated garages and compact gardens. Developers such as Bellway, Taylor Wimpey and Persimmon are behind recent housing at Copperhouse Green and Knights Reach, using contemporary materials and layouts suited to energy performance targets.
Buyers interested in older homes should factor in potential upgrades to meet current insulation or heating standards. In newer areas, warranties and more efficient designs may reduce ongoing costs but can come with a premium in price.
Parts of Dartford, particularly near the River Darent and along low-lying areas of the town, are identified by the Environment Agency as having a medium to high risk of surface water flooding. Areas such as Temple Hill, Central Park and parts of the Stone Marshes have been included in past flood risk assessments. However, flood defences and planning policies have reduced the likelihood of major issues.
Buyers should consult a property-specific flood report or check flood risk maps, especially when looking at riverside developments or older properties near the Darent. Many new builds are required to include sustainable drainage systems and surface water management as part of the planning process.
Radon risk in Dartford is low. Public Health England classifies the majority of the borough as being in the lowest category for radon exposure, meaning there’s generally no need for radon mitigation in most homes. However, buyers of homes with basements or properties built on older brownfield land may still wish to check as a precaution.
Environmental considerations should be part of any homebuying decision, and professional surveyors can offer tailored advice based on location and property type.
Dartford’s location makes it one of Kent’s most accessible towns. The A2 and M25 intersect nearby, allowing quick access to London, Essex and the rest of Kent. Dartford Crossing links the town with Thurrock, while the A206 runs east-west connecting to Crayford and Ebbsfleet.
There are frequent rail services from Dartford station to London Bridge, Charing Cross and Victoria. Trains typically take 40–50 minutes depending on route. Stone Crossing and Greenhithe stations serve commuters in those areas, and Ebbsfleet International provides high-speed services to London and the continent.
Bus services connect Dartford with Bexley, Gravesend, Bluewater and local estates. Fastrack buses provide a rapid service through Ebbsfleet and Temple Hill. Cyclists benefit from local paths, including routes through Central Park and out to Swanscombe and Darenth.
Travel options are a strong draw for those moving out from London. The town’s road and rail links are often a key reason homebuyers choose Dartford over other parts of Kent.
Dartford is well served by schools, with a mix of grammar, academy and primary options. Popular primary schools include West Hill Primary, Wentworth Primary in Dartford East and Wilmington Primary. Secondary schools include Dartford Grammar School and Dartford Grammar School for Girls, both highly regarded and selective. Other options include Leigh Academy and Wilmington Academy.
There are multiple nurseries and early years settings across the borough, as well as special educational needs provision. Further education is provided by North Kent College, based in nearby Oakfield Lane, offering vocational and academic pathways.
For families, Dartford’s appeal lies in its mix of educational choice and outdoor space. Central Park, Darenth Country Park and play areas at Knights Manor and Temple Hill offer room for children to enjoy the outdoors. Leisure centres, swimming pools and community halls provide a range of activities year-round.
Local parents often comment on the convenience of schools within walking distance and the improvement of public spaces and play areas in recent years. Areas like Wilmington, Stone and Joydens Wood remain in demand for their combination of good schools and quieter residential streets.
Compared to neighbouring Bexley or Gravesend, Dartford offers a broader housing mix and stronger road connections. It’s often more affordable than Bexley borough while offering easier access to central London than towns further east.
Ebbsfleet, just to the east, is a purpose-built garden city with high-speed rail and new-build estates. It appeals to those seeking contemporary housing and infrastructure, though lacks the historic character of Dartford. Greenhithe, by contrast, is focused around Bluewater and appeals to commuters wanting shopping and transport convenience.
Popular areas in Dartford include:
Dartford continues to attract homebuyers looking for a balance of space, convenience and connectivity – particularly those moving from London or seeking investment in an area still growing.
Buying, renovating or selling a property can be daunting. That’s where we come in. As RICS surveyors in Plymouth, we are renowned for our friendly expertise. Let us guide you through your property project, providing peace of mind every step of the way.
