Home Buyers Survey in Partington

Should I opt for a RICS Level 2 Survey, Full Structural Survey or RICS Level 3 Survey on a house in Partington and which one is cheaper?

The Full Structural Survey is now called a RICS Level 3 Survey, however it is basically the same the same.

If the Partington property is a flat or maisonette, or is a period property, or has been structurally altered, or is of non standard construction, then RICS recommend a cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you intend to do any substantial modifications, RICS advise you choose a RICS Level 3 Survey. The RICS Level 3 Survey is not as cheap, but it will give you a more detailed analysis of the Partington property's general condition and it includes advice on structural defects and maintenance options .

For more details why not obtain an instant Partington House Survey Quote or call us 0800 022 4428 to speak to one of our advisers.

Does a survey include a valuation and reinstatement cost estimate (including costs for reconstructing a retaining wall) and how is it calculated?

A RICS Level 2 Survey on a Partington building will include a valuation as well as a reinstatement cost estimate. When calculating the valuation your RICS valuer will pair awareness of the Partington property market and other things relating to the property for instance: number of bedrooms Surveyors also examine construction type and will draw upon key assumptions like no significant problems.

A RICS Level 3 Survey won't include a valuation as standard. A valuation can, however, be added for a nominal fee. Alternatively a Property Valuation Report (PVR) can be carried out.

It will be assumed that there is an absence of any serious legal problems such as building regulations having been complied. Advice should be sought from your solicitor during the legal process.

Additional local area assumptions, for example connection to sewers, are made in addition to Partington environmental issues like local mining issues, also being considered.

Damp in the attic caused problems in a house we used to own. I am particularly concerned about the state of the roof. Which issues relating to the roof of the home will be considered?

This is often asked by purchasers who know that homes will suffer problems like ponding. Every element should be checked, e.g. clay tiles. The chartered surveyors could suggest that some of the faults must be dealt with immediately.

Roof upkeep need not always be costly, but they should be budgeted for carefully. A RICS Level 3 Survey prior to exchange is highly recommended, so that you fully understand what expenses you will be facing. A quote for the work could be sought from a reliable local roofing specialist.

The seller has mentioned there is a risk of powdery brown asbestos walls situated in the property. What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a potentially deadly material. There are over 60 types, 6 of which were used in the UK and were commonly found in the building materials for example fire doors.

Asbestos was commonly used as it has excellent heat resistance qualities and it may be found in duct connectors.

All forms including Chrysotile are potentially fatal and can lead to lung cancer or pleural disease following prolonged exposure.

If found, care should be taken not to displace it. Professional advice should be sought as soon as possible. On no account attempt to get rid of it yourself. Approved experts can be found at www.arca.org.uk. Partington Surveyors will not verify the presence of asbestos on a survey. However, surveyors will mention potential asbestos during the Partington survey and should advise accordingly.

We are buying a property but are worried about insects - Do we need a surveyor?

Partington home buyers should be aware that there is no legal obligation for the vendor to mention a pest issue. When purchasing a house, this matter should be borne in mind. An affected house may not always be easy to identify.

For example, damage to stored clothes or carpets is a sign of a moth infestation, but may not be spotted for months. Remedies can be disruptive to residents, and may require you to move out during the work in extreme cases. Rather than pulling out, it may be possible to agree a reduction in the purchase price to cover the cost of remedy.