Home Buyers Survey in Ilford

Should I choose a HomeBuyer Report, Building Survey or Full Structural Survey on a home in Ilford and which would be the cheapest?

The Full Structural Survey has been updated to a Building Survey, however it is essentially the same.

If the Ilford property is an apartment, or was built before 1900, or has been structurally modified, or is of non standard construction, RICS recommend a cheaper HomeBuyer Report.

If you are planning to do any works or an extension, RICS recommend you go for a Building Survey. This survey is not as cheap however it will provide you with a thorough analysis of the Ilford property's general condition along with advice on structural defects as well as maintenance options .

For more details why not obtain a Ilford Homebuyers Survey Quote or call 0800 038 6667 to speak to a member of our team.

Will insects affect the purchase price of a house in Ilford. Should we get a surveyor?

Pests like thrips may sometimes seem a small, even irrelevant, matter when buying in Ilford.

Unfortunately, the threat posed by these to property is very real, and can be very expensive to resolve. It may not be obvious that a building is suffering a severe pest problem, as evidence can be overlooked, for example, cockroaches are nocturnal, and challenging to eradicate. Species common to the UK, such as the German Cockroach, are small, and breed rapidly in moist conditions. This makes them both hard to spot, and to treat successfully. Treatment for insect infestation may include professional cleaning or removal of infected furniture. If you strongly suspect an issue with thrips, or any pest, speak to your home surveyor

What effect will rainfall have on a Ilford building, and does our Ilford HomeBuyer Report mention it? Are repairs going to be expensive?

Despite England's reputation for wet weather the impact high levels of rainfall can have on Ilford houses is not given the attention it deserves by purchasers. Signs that gutters are worth a closer look include corroded downspouts. If you have suspicions, consider asking the surveyor for more information.

The good news is that problems with drains are quite easy to resolve for a reasonable cost. Where this is untreated or poorly maintained, the damage becomes increasing costly to remedy.

The neighbour stated there might be asbestos walls being found in the home. What are the issues with asbestos, are there any health risks, what are the remedial options and Should I be worried?

Asbestos is a harmful fibrous material formed from metamorphic rocks. Some types may be in building materials including insulating board. Its use is widespread, for example - as it has characteristic fire retarding qualities and it may be found in coatings spayed on beams.

All forms (including white) are ultimately hazardous and can lead to lung cancer or asbestosis if inhaled over sustained periods.

Care should be taken if asbestos is discovered on no account to move asbestos. Professional advice should be sought immediately. On no account try to remove it yourself. Surveyors will not confirm the existence asbestos during the survey. They will mention possible asbestos and should advise accordingly.

Do I need to get a full structural survey prior to investing in an abandoned, period garden maisonette in Ilford?

Building Survey is now the correct term for the Structural Survey following its renaming in 2010 by RICS. Go for a Building Survey for the maisonette referred to. The HomeBuyer Report is appropriate for a non period Ilford maisonette assembled from typical construction materials.

There are several limitations exist with any survey as a RICS surveyor is not in a position to force or open up the fabric of the maisonette or inspect where doing so could cause damage to the house.

Are there any problems I should consider if purchasing a property in Ilford in a conservation area?

There are over 9, 000 official conservation areas throughout the country which are governed by the local council. Ilford surveyors need to have knowledge of relevant local area issues and the effect they have with the building. Prices will probably be significantly higher owing to conservation areas being unspoilt. However many areas are falling into poor condition for example - the excessive amount of traffic management signs

Surveyors are expected tell you whether the location could be is designated and the Section I Issues for your legal advisers of a Homebuyer Report will recommend further enquiries are carried out by your legal adviser. Unauthorised developments to the building will also be noted but these are really more a concern for the lawyer.