Getting Property Important Details
It is always better to get a detailed survey done on a property before you purchase it. The bank or lender you arrange a mortgage with will do a basic check of the property to provide a valuation, but this won’t include problems with the property, issues that need attention and maintenance, and other important details. You shouldn’t buy based solely on this valuation, or you could leave yourself open to unforeseen problems.
It is always better to get a homebuyer’s report or a full building survey. The first option is the cheapest and is the best choice when you are buying a standard property that is in reasonably good condition and less than 30 years old. It is designed to provide information about structural problems and other issues that would pose a problem. Ultimately, the details in the report will help buyers to make an informed judgement about whether or not they should proceed.
A building survey is more comprehensive than a homebuyer’s report and naturally costs more as a result. However, the extra expense can prove to be worth it because it will include many more details. The building surveyor should conduct various different tests as part of the survey, including testing for damp, checking timbers for woodworm and rot, and testing the condition of damp proofing and insulation. They will also look for minor and major defects and provide estimates of the repair costs. Surveys will vary in price depending on the value of the property.
As well as these reports, you can also commission a defect report if you notice a specific problem with the property during a viewing. This will focus specifically on the issue you highlight, so other areas of the property won’t be checked.
It is always wise to discuss the property with the building surveyor when deciding what type of survey to get. The more detail you give them, the better equipped they will be to decide which service they feel is best for you. A full building survey is always the better option if you are buying an older property and especially so if it is listed because this will have an impact on the work you can do to it.
We are equipped to provide detailed property surveys and valuations for buildings of any size, including residential and commercial premises. If you need a building surveyor in Maidenhead or any surrounding areas, please get in touch.
