Preparing for Your Survey
Before the surveyor arrives, prepare a list of questions and concerns about the property. Note any obvious damage, damp patches, stains, or areas that worry you. Obtain documents about previous repairs, guarantees for work done, and any known issues the seller has mentioned. This preparation helps you and the surveyor focus on potential problem areas.
Arrange to be present during the survey if possible. Seeing how the surveyor works helps you understand what is being checked and allows you to ask questions as issues are identified. Take your own notes and photos. While the surveyor is the expert, staying engaged gives you better understanding of the property’s condition.
Structural Elements to Verify
Check the exterior walls for cracks, bulging, or signs of movement. Look at the roof from ground level for missing tiles, sagging lines, or obvious deterioration. Examine all external windows and doors for signs of rot, failed seals, or dampness. Walk around the building looking for differences in ground level, which might indicate subsidence.
Inside, check ceiling surfaces for water stains, cracks, or sagging. Examine wall surfaces, particularly near ground level and around windows. Look for signs of repairs or patching that suggest previous problems. Check the loft access if possible to see the roof structure and insulation level. These visual checks complement the surveyor’s detailed assessment.
Dampness and Water Management
Examine walls, particularly at ground level, for discoloration, soft patches, efflorescence (white salt deposits), or musty smells indicating damp. Check around window frames and external doors for water ingress signs. Look at guttering, downpipes, and drainage. Blocked gutters and poor drainage are common causes of dampness.
Inspect the basement or ground floor for evidence of flooding, water staining, or waterproofing systems. Ask the seller if the property has ever had flooding, damp problems, or damp treatment. Check kitchen and bathroom areas carefully for water ingress around fittings and through walls. These areas are particularly vulnerable to water problems.
Building Services and Systems
Note the age of the boiler and how well it is performing. Check all radiators heat properly. Run water taps to check pressure and water quality. Examine visible pipework for signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage. Check kitchen appliances for age and condition. Test light switches and visible electrics for safety and function.
Ask about recent upgrades such as new windows, roof covering, or boiler installation. Obtain guarantees or warranties for this work if available. Check extractor fans, ventilation, and air quality. These systems indicate what maintenance costs you might face and how well the property has been maintained.
Documentation and Guarantees
Ask for any guarantees or warranties for building work, including new roofs, boilers, windows, or damp treatment. These provide reassurance and may be transferable to you as the new owner. Request electrical certificates and gas safety certificates if these have been obtained. Original building regulation approval documents are valuable if available.
Obtain details of any structural repairs, loft conversions, extensions, or significant work carried out. Planning permission and building regulation approval confirmation are important for any major work. The absence of these documents for known building work is a concern that your surveyor should investigate further.
Frequently Asked Questions
What questions should I ask the surveyor during the inspection?
Ask about anything you do not understand. Questions might include: “How old is the roof covering?”, “Are these cracks concerning?”, “Could that damp be serious?”, “Does the boiler need replacement soon?” The surveyor can explain findings in detail and answer your specific concerns.
Should I order a full building survey even if a homebuyer survey is recommended?
If the homebuyer survey identifies any significant concerns, a building survey may be worth the extra investment. For older properties or those with complex issues, a building survey provides the comprehensive detail needed to make a confident decision.
What should I do if the survey identifies serious problems?
Discuss options with the surveyor first to understand the severity. You can then request specialist quotes for remedial work, renegotiate the purchase price, ask the seller to repair issues before completion, or reconsider the purchase. The survey is your opportunity to make a fully informed decision.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Trust Surveyors today to discuss your requirements. Our team is ready to help.
Website: www.trustsurveyors.com
Phone: 0151 702 0123
Email: hello@trustsurveyors.com
