If you are buying the home of your dreams, waiting for the results of the survey can be stressful, but if a survey does show up any issues you could use this as an opportunity to negotiate a better price or save yourself a lot of problems further down the line.
Damp
Homebuyers can be scared of damp and whenever this word is mentioned it is assumed it is going to cost thousands of pounds to put right. However, damp problems can sometimes be managed by ensuring a property is warm and has proper ventilation. If damp is revealed in your survey, it is worth getting a quote for damp proofing.
Asbestos
If a survey reveals a property has Asbestos, this will need urgent attention and require safe removal by a professional.
Electrics
If you are buying a property which is more than 10-years-old, it is recommended you invest in an electrical installation condition report to see if a rewire is needed.
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Drains
If there is a problem with the drains, this can cause leaks, damp and other issues. A home buyers survey from companies such as Sam Conveyancing will recommend replacing pipes and gutters if necessary.
Roofing
It is always worth getting the roof checked, as discovering it needs completely re-tiling after you’ve moved will put a huge dent in your bank account. It may only need a few tiles replacing, but better to check before exchanging contracts.
Flat roofing
If the property you are buying has any extensions with flat roofing, a survey will check the condition of the roof and confirm if it is fit for purpose.
Insulation
Older properties in particular may benefit from an insulation upgrade. Requesting an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) will reveal how a property is insulated and this can help you decide if an upgrade is required.
Property prices in London are set to rise again next year, with people returning to city living post pandemic.
Subsidence
Subsidence is another word that strikes fear into anyone buying a new home and rightly so, as repairing a home structurally is an expensive business.
Japanese Knotweed
Feared by gardeners, this invasive plant can damage buildings and driveways, as it grows through any crack it can find and is difficult to kill, so take its presence seriously.
Woodworm
Barn conversations, or homes which use timber frames may need treating for woodworm.
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