Investing Initial Property Surveys Save Thousands
In the last few years there has been a rise in people skipping full building surveys in an effort to save money and raise enough cash to buy a home. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has warned of the risks homeowners take by failing to have their new homes thoroughly inspected.
One in five of the people who opt out of structural surveys find themselves facing unpleasant surprises at a later date, with more than 15% of new owners spending £12,000 on average to rectify the faults that they initially failed to look for. Properties may look incredible at first sight, but there can be all manner of unseen flaws, from leaking joints in central heating pipes to dangerous electrics and wet rot in the floors.
Pressure on family budgets is a big contributor to the reluctance to carry out proper surveys, but the fact is that the early outlay can save people thousands in the future. Entering a property deal with the knowledge that the building is sound is valuable and highly cost-efficient.
A complete inspection consists of an assessment of all accessible and visible structural components. Older buildings are particularly susceptible to problems and a full survey is essential. By inspecting the property’s structural integrity we can identify any movement in the walls and foundations. The roof will also be fully inspected for cracks and leaks.
Surveys also look for woodworm, damp and dry rot as well as check condensation levels. Gas, electricity and plumbing systems will be visually inspected as well as windows, doors and hinges. Driveways, paths, fences and other exterior features will also be checked.
If there are any faults and issues lurking you can be sure that a building survey will discover them and help you avoid buying a property with the potential for further decline. By neglecting to commission a survey homeowners can end up with a home buying time bomb on their hands. People can find themselves stuck with houses they can neither sell nor afford to fix.
A survey can highlight all issues and help you renegotiate on the price of the property. If you are in need of a building surveyor, we can provide you with professional, affordable and dependable assistance. We are dedicated to providing a valuable service throughout Maidenhead and the surrounding areas, and our customers can have complete confidence in our comprehensive building surveys and home buyer reports.
