Home Buyers Survey in County Durham

Should we book a Full Structural Survey, Building Survey or HomeBuyer Report for a home in County Durham and which one is the cheapest?

The Full Structural Survey has been renamed by RICS as a Building Survey, however it is effectively the same survey.

If the County Durham property is a flat, or is an older property, or has been extended or modified, or is of non standard construction (i.e. not made of bricks), RICS advise a cheaper HomeBuyer Report.

If you are planning to make alterations on the County Durham property, RICS advise you opt for a Building Survey. The Building Survey is not as cheap, however it will give a more detailed analysis of the County Durham property's state of repair along with more detailed advice on defects as well as maintenance options .

For more detailed advice you can get an instant County Durham Survey Quote on our website or call us 0800 038 6667 to speak to a member of our team.

When purchasing a neglected Edwardian end of terrace home in County Durham, should I get a full structural survey?

The Full Structural Survey has a new name and is now entitled the Building Survey. It is the right home survey if buying a modified property e.g. a period house in County Durham. The written report will give in depth and salient professional advice concerning the buildings construction materials as well as any technical details, shortly after a thorough visual inspection of the accessible parts.

Damp in the attic has created issues for us in the past. I am particularly concerned about the state of the roof. What does a home surveyor investigate during the survey?

This is frequently addressed by RICS surveyors. Houses across County Durham can still be subject to roof maintenance problems, such as incorrectly applied waterproofing. All aspects of the roof should be reviewed, from the trusses to the parapet walls. The RICS surveyors could suggest that some of the faults must be dealt with immediately.

The prospect of large bills for roofing jobs (such as loft insulation) may have scared off some homeowners from carrying out necessary work. In extreme cases, this may be the reason for the sale, so buyers must be vigilant and employ the services of a qualified surveyor before the exchange of contracts. It may be advisable to source an estimate for any work prior to exchange.

However, buyers should endeavour to compare a number of quotes to find the best deal. Contact Breward Roofing of 1 St Philips Close, Auckland Park, Bishop Auckland, DL14 8BD on 01388 661308 for details.

Will there be any considerations I need to consider if planning to buy a home in County Durham in Annfield Plain conservation area ?

Annfield Plain is in a conservation area and has been classed as very bad by English Heritage, with medium vulnerability and deteriorating. For more information visit their website. There are thousands of designated conservation areas in England and Wales that are designated and monitored by the local authority. Annfield Plain is monitored by Durham County Council at County Hall, Durham, DH1 5UL - Call 0300 123 7070.

A Building Surveyors need to possess local knowledge of local considerations and the effect they have on the property. House prices will likely be higher because of them being in their original state.

Surveyors can be expected to advise you whether the location could be is designated and Section I of the Homebuyer Report will advise suitable questions are conducted during the conveyancing process. Unauthorised adjustments to the building may be advised in your survey, however these should be investigated by the lawyer. C W Booth & Co are based in 5-7 Cockton Hill Road, County Durham, County Durham, DL14 6EN and may be prepared to give you some pointers. Tel: