Home Buyers Survey in Lozells

Should I opt for a RICS Level 2 Survey, RICS Level 3 Survey or Full Structural Survey for a property in Lozells and which one would be cheaper?

The Full Structural Survey has been updated to a RICS Level 3 Survey but is essentially the same survey.

If the Lozells property is a flat or maisonette, or is over 100 years old, or has been substantially modified, or is built of unusual materials (e.g. steel and glass), you should choose a cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you are planning to do any an extension, RICS recommend you go for a RICS Level 3 Survey. The RICS Level 3 Survey is less cheap however it does offer a thorough analysis of the Lozells property's general condition as well as including information on defects , repairs and maintenance options .

For more detailed advice why not obtain an instant Lozells House Survey Quote on our site or call 0800 022 4428 to speak to our survey team.

How will we know what impact does rain have on our new building in Lozells?

As a frequent surveyor of homes in the region, I find it strange that heavy rainfall and the effect it can have on a home are ignored. One indication that drainage are worth a closer look is corroded downspouts. Poor drainage can lead to fungi or mould which can be a health risk.

Fortunately, this is usually easy to resolve. If not maintained, however, the damage can be very costly and time-consuming to remedy.

Will the qualified RICS surveyor look at the condition or the safety of the gas heaters?

The will visually look at the easily accessible parts of the system. The survey will include the routing of any gas pipes at the home, as well as gas associated fixtures for example - the possibility of asbestos. If there are any fittings they however, won't be taken off. The gas system won't be tested at all. Of course, gas is potentially unsafe, if you have any concerns about gas, contact a gas safe engineer immediately.

The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 require landlords must to complete appliance and installation inspections every year and punishments for failure to comply include heavy fines or imprisonment .

What should I be worried about when purchasing a building next to a rubbish landfill

Landfill Sites take many forms e.g. hazardous rubbish. No one really wants to live near one (4/5 people live under 2km away from one). Concerns might include hazardous chemicals. Potential health concerns such as downs syndrome have been associated with landfill sites .

Surveyors will note any structural issues linked to the site. Your solicitor will commission conveyancing and environmental searches of the Landmark databases as well as Birmingham Local Authority and advise you .

The vendor mentioned subsidence could be a problem. What are the risks, and what can be done to resolve subsidence if it is identified?

Subsidence is the movement of the foundations of a home which compromises its structural integrity. Most homes experience minor cracking which will not affect the building's structure. New buildings in Lozells and properties with new structural alterations will be particularly susceptible.

Subsidence can be caused by a range of factors. Collapsed drains, including mains drains, can cause subsidence by washing away or loosening subsoil. This may be referred to as groundwater subsidence. Organic material in the sub-soil can also create issues. Peat is normally stable when sat below the water table, but if the water level falls and the soil dries out, this organic matter will rot. The weight of the foundations will then compress the sub soil.

Learning the cause of any subsidence should be the first priority.Removing or even pruning any tree(s) causing subsidence may be enough to halt any further movement. Chartered surveyors should be able to identify a subsidence problem, while structural engineers may also be required.