THINKING ABOUT
HAVING A
SURVEY?

YOU SHOULD BECAUSE YOUR HOME IS PROBABLY THE BIGGEST INVESTMENT YOU EVER MAKE!

WHY HAVE A SURVEY?
The best reason for a Survey is to make sure, as far as is possible, that you know what you are buying, ‘warts and all’.

WILL IT HELP GET THE PRICE DOWN?
A Survey should not be viewed as a negotiating tool. If the Survey identifies any major unexpected defects it is better for both sides to quantify the cost by getting prices for remedial work.

I LOVE THE HOUSE AND A SURVEY MIGHT PUT ME OFF!
People are often put off buying a property by defects mentioned in a survey report. It is possible their existing house has the same sort of defect that does not affect day to day living. It is a shame to lose what would otherwise be the perfect house due to a lack of understanding. Whilst we try to put things in context our Surveyor will be pleased to talk you through the report once you have had a chance to read it.

CAN I SUE YOU IF YOU MISS SOMETHING?
Yes but only if it is something that we agreed in advance to look for and most other Surveyors would not have missed it. A Survey is not a guarantee that there are no defects because the Surveyor cannot see all parts of the property without taking it to pieces. A Doctor cannot guarantee the health of a patient who will not speak, take their clothes off or allow any invasive examination!

WHAT ABOUT A SURVEY?
Buying a home is probably the most important personal investment decision you ever make. It makes sense to take professional advice to help make sure you know what you are buying and give you confidence in your decision.

The property you are interested in may be very old or brand new, but age alone is not always a good guide. The quality of materials and workmanship is important, as is the standard of maintenance. Recent maintenance or decorating can hide problems and even new houses can suffer defects arising from corner cutting or lack of attention to detail.

WHAT TYPE OF SURVEY?
Outlined below are the main types, all of which can be tailored to suit you.

BUILDING SURVEY
This is a thorough inspection and detailed report identifying the existence of defects, discussing their probable causes and saying what steps need to be taken to put things right. It also comments on repairs and maintenance needed over the next few years. This type of report can also address particular concerns you have about any aspect of the property or any proposals you may have for alterations or extensions. Additional specialist inspections of electrics, heating, drains, wall ties, etc., can be arranged if necessary.

HOME BUYERS REPORT
This is a limited report on the structure together with a valuation. It is suitable only for standard bungalows, houses and flats built this century and for buildings of 3 storeys or less. It reports only on defects that will have a material affect on value. It is not intended to explain the causes of problems in detail, or the solutions, but will show the major areas that need attention.

VALUATION
A brief inspection of the property is undertaken to identify the size and type of accommodation. Only very obvious major defects are identified. The surveyor will assume there are no hidden defects that might be identified during a Building Survey. The brief report gives an opinion of value having regard to the area. This is the type of report that would be carried out on behalf of your lender if you were having a mortgage. It might be suitable if you have a very good knowledge of building construction and defects but are unsure about price levels.

WHEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?
Straight away so your legal representative can address any problems that the Report identifies. If you are having a mortgage then it may be better to wait until the result of the Mortgage Valuation is known so any specialist reports required by the lender can be arranged to coincide with the Surveyor’s inspection.

WHAT DOES IT COST?
The cost will depend on the size and nature of the property concerned and the exact level of service you require. As we tailor the service to your individual requirements, there is no standard fee. However, when compared to the price of a home it will be a small price to pay!

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NOW?
Telephone 01243 864288 or call in and ask to speak to a Surveyor. It helps to give the address and a copy of the Estate Agents details so the Surveyor can quickly get an idea of the type of property involved. From local knowledge the Surveyor can start to advise on what might be appropriate and

• Discuss the property and your needs.
• Suggest a level of service and the fee.
• Confirm the service and fee in writing.
• Agree a time scale and tell you when we will inspect the property.
• Give you a preliminary report by phone after the inspection.
• Ensure the report is easy to read, avoiding technical jargon when possible.
• Send copies of the report to you and to your legal representative if you wish.
• Discuss the report with you when you have had a chance to read it.

I’M WORRIED ABOUT........
CRACKS
Most houses have some cracks. Most cracks are not serious and have nothing to do with foundation movement. However cracks accompanied by deflection in walls or floors can do.

FLAT ROOFS
Flat roofs don’t last forever but they don’t all leak and may have lots of life left. It’s often the joins to the walls that leak rather than the roof.

DAMP
Most dampness is not rising damp. Other sources are condensation, plumbing leaks and rainwater penetration. Once the source is properly identified we can advise on the appropriate action and whether there is likely to be any hidden damage.

DON’T WORRY
Talk it through with us and we’ll aim to help you make an informed choice about the survey and your new home. For an initial chat without charge or obligation give us a call.