Help & Advice
Some of the most common concerns for homeowners and problems found in residential properties include:
Damp & Timber Decay
Damp in houses can be caused by a number of issues. All our surveys include random moisture meter testing in the appropriate areas, where accessible. We will identify the location of any damp and, in the Level 2 and 3 surveys, we will endeavour to establish the cause of the damp and whether there are any likely hidden issues, such as subfloor timber decay. Where possible, appropriate remedial action will be suggested. In some cases, further investigation may be necessary by an experienced damp and timber specialist. They should be a member of the Property Care Association (PCA). Visit https://www.property-care.org/ for further information and to find a specialist.
Environmental Issues
Environmental issues such as flooding, radon gas and coal mining are a concern for homeowners and potential buyers. Given the suggested effects of global warming and seemingly more extreme weather conditions in recent years, flooding is becoming a more regular event. Properties within designated flood risk areas can become difficult to insure and therefore their suitability for mortgage security can also be affected. Our local knowledge and use of appropriate online information can highlight environmental risks before you commit to buy a property. Further information on radon gas can be found at: https://www.ukradon.org/information/ukmaps and flooding information at: https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/long-term-flood-risk
Structural Damage
Buildings can be affected by structural movement due a number of different issues including poor workmanship, foundation failure, drainage leaks, tree root disruption, differential settlement, coal mining etc. Our surveys will identify whether the property has suffered any structural damage and try to establish whether any movement is still occurring or whether it is historical and is likely to have stopped. Surveys Level 2 and 3 will, where possible, identify the cause of the movement and suggest appropriate remedial action. In some cases, further investigation may be necessary by an appropriately experienced Structural Engineer or Chartered Building Surveyor. These can be found on-line or please ask and we may be able to put you in touch with a reputable local Engineer/Building Surveyor depending on your requirements.
Japanese Knotweed
Japanese knotweed is one of several invasive plants and weeds. Its roots and rhizomes grow underground up to a depth of 2m (6 feet). Even after treatment has killed any above ground growth, the underground rhizomes can remain dormant and regrow up to twenty years later, especially if the ground is disturbed. If left to grow untreated knotweed can cause damage to driveways, paths, drains and boundary walls. The presence of Japanese Knotweed within 7m of a property or its boundary can affect its suitability for a mortgage. We are trained to identify Japanese Knotweed and other invasive plants and our Surveys will make you aware of their presence where it is visible above ground at the time of our inspection. For further information see: https://www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/upholding-professional-standards/sector-standards/real-estate/japanese-knotweed-and-residential-property-1st-edition.pdf
Asbestos
Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) have been used in elements of domestic properties since the 1930’s but were banned in the late 1970’s. Whilst we are not Asbestos specialists, as part of our survey inspections, we will suggest where ACMs may be present and whether they are likely to pose any threat to the health of the occupier. However, asbestos identification is very specialised and where asbestos is suspected you are advised to seek independent specialist further investigation and advise. Further information on asbestos and qualified specialists is available at https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/surveyors.htm
Services
Services in domestic properties including Gas, Electrics, Water, Plumbing and Drainage often require specialist and qualified knowledge. Poorly maintained or out of date Gas and Electrical installations can pose a significant health & safety hazard and leaking pipes and blocked drains can lead to structural movement in nearby buildings and walls. Our Level 2 and 3 Surveys include an observation and comment on all services. Any noticeable defects will be brought to your attention and, where necessary, advice given on any further investigations which may be required before you legally commit to buying your property.
