Surveyors in Warwickshire

I intend to buy a house in Warwickshire. What sort of survey should I instruct?

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Warwickshire, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on several factors. For example, a full structural survey known as a Building Survey (RICS Level 3) will provide a more in-depth examination and explanation of the fabric of a building. This might be more appropriate when buying a flat or apartment because the surveyor can be asked to provide an opinion on shared areas of a property, such as the roof area, hallways and stairwells.

We're cash buyers. Do we need to bother with any kind of structural survey, or will a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) be enough?

It's always best to be forewarned about any potential issues with a property, and those buying without a mortgage need to protect their investment just as a lender would. A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) is the most comprehensive and technical survey offered by Warwickshire RICS surveyors working with Surveyor Local. An examination of the property's accessible areas - both interior and exterior - will inform an in-depth report on its construction, any visible defects and their causes, and any recommendations on repair and maintenance options. A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) would also identify any structural issues, such as subsidence, but this will not be as thorough an examination as the Building Survey.

We are interested in buying a barn conversion In Warwickshire. Which type of survey will reveal if the age of the property is an issue?

The method of construction used in a property may dictate which kind of survey you choose. Older properties built using traditional methods and materials may be more expensive to maintain, while any defects may not be obvious without a detailed inspection. When you instruct a Warwickshire RICS chartered surveyor through Surveyor Local, you get the opportunity to discuss whether the property you intend to buy has any specific issues related to its age or construction type. The surveyor can advise on what survey would best suit your circumstances.

What kind of roof issues would a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) reveal?

A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) uses colour-coded condition ratings that give those purchasing a property clear understanding of any issues. Access to loft or attic space can reveal issues with trusses and supports, torn or punctured damp proofing or missing tiles. Where it is not possible to access the roof for a more thorough inspection, the final report will make this clear.

I'm buying on a Warwickshire property and I'm concerned there may be asbestos in the interior roof tiles. Will a survey show if asbestos is there?

A building survey will not be able to confirm whether asbestos is present, but the surveyor will note any possibility of the fibre's use and advise where further investigation is required. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was used in building materials such as flooring and fireplace lining because of its resistance to heat. The product was also used as insulation in ceiling tiles. Asbestos is a hazardous substance, and prolonged exposure to its fibres can lead to lung cancer or asbestosis. Where asbestos is found, it must be removed by professionals who are licensed by the Health & Safety Executive.

The electrics in the Warwickshire terraced house we're bidding on are very old. Does a surveyor look at the safety of the wiring?

Whether carrying out a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) or a Building Survey (RICS Level 3), a chartered surveyor will look at the condition of the electrics, including an overview of the fuse board, its age and condition, any visible wiring, plus electrical fittings such as showers and light fittings. If the electrics are in an unsatisfactory or dangerous state of repair, the surveyor will highlight this in their subsequent report. The surveyor will also examine any documentation from electrical wiring tests carried out by an electrician where this is available.

Does the chartered surveyor give details on the condition of the gas supply?

Your RICS surveyor will locate and visually examine the accessible parts of the gas system. This will include gas heaters at the home in addition to gas related fittings such as chimney maintenance and the flue. Gas fittings will not be removed, and the system will not be tested at all. Most people are aware that gas is potentially fatal. If you have any worries relating to gas installations at all, we suggest you call a gas engineer.

Gas regulations require that all landlords must complete appliance and installation inspections every year. Non-compliance penalties include heavy fines or imprisonment.

The house I am purchasing in Warwickshire is built on clay soil. Will the survey consider this, and what defects will be reported on?

Soil composition can have a great impact on a house. Subsidence is a major concern, but there are others, including shrinking of clay soil. Given the moisture content does have such a great effect on clay-rich soil, owners should be aware that defects can arise if environmental conditions change. If present, expansive clay soil can put lateral pressure on a Warwickshire house's foundations, forcing them inward. Steps like avoiding planting trees too near the house and pruning where necessary can help maintain clay-rich soil, but a purchaser should discuss specifics with the surveyor if extensive upkeep is warranted. In some more extreme cases, the building foundations may need extra support, but this can be costly.

Does a Warwickshire Homebuyers survey search for flooding?

Those planning to buy in areas affected by flooding should weigh up their exposure. A flood danger alert service, with regular updates, is operated by the Environment Agency. The Homebuyers Survey (RICS Level 2) may also, where appropriate, offer suggestions for better flood defences. The GroundSure Flood Report is one of several risk screening reports designed to provide an overview of whether a home in Warwickshire lies within an area of potential or previous flood risk. Also included on Environment Agency's flood danger alert are details of local rivers and other bodies of water prone to flooding.

We're purchasing a house in Warwickshire, and we are wary of potential roofing issues. What will our surveyor be concerned about during the survey work?

Many homes may be exposed to roof maintenance problems, such as torn or punctured damp-proofing. Any part of the roof or loft, such as tie beams, ought to be checked. The RICS surveyors could suggest that some of the faults must be dealt with immediately. Maintenance need not always be costly, but they should be budgeted for carefully. A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) prior to exchange is highly recommended, so that you fully understand what expenses you will be facing.

I am intending to put an offer in on a Warwickshire property built Kentish Ragstone. What related issues should we be aware of?

Britain's varied geology has encouraged the use of many varieties of stone, from Grey Catcastle Sandstone to Westwood Ground Limestone. Issues including efflorescence affect many stone-walled Warwickshire property. The two main forms of mortared stone wall construction found in Warwickshire are regular and irregular. Dry stone construction is used in garden walls and field boundaries but is rarely employed for inhabited structures. Regular courses of ashlar (cut stone) are often used as a finish to irregular stone walls. These are employed as a decorative front, with brick or irregular walls. Upkeep advice often given in a survey includes removal of invasive plants, such as ivy.