Home Buyers Survey in Poundbury

Should we select a Full Structural Survey, RICS Level 3 Survey or RICS Level 2 Survey on a property in Poundbury and which one would be cheaper?

The Full Structural Survey has changed its name to a RICS Level 3 Survey, although it is essentially the same level of survey.

If the Poundbury property is an apartment, or is over 100 years old, or has been extended or modified, or is of non standard construction, RICS advise a cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you are planning to carry out alterations, RICS recommend you opt for a RICS Level 3 Survey instead. This more detailed survey is not as cheap but it will provide you with an in-depth analysis of the Poundbury property's state of repair as well as more detailed advice on defects , general repairs as well as maintenance options .

For further advice why not obtain an instant Poundbury Survey Quote online or call 0800 022 4428 to speak to one of our advisers.

I suspect said there may be a risk of brown asbestos ceiling boards situated in the flat. What is asbestos and does the surveyor look at this?

Asbestos is a harmful fibrous material. Chrysotile (White), Amosite (Brown) and Crocidolite (Blue) may be in building materials for example painted over ceilings. Its use is widespread, for example - as it has a range of useful characteristic fire retarding qualities and it may be found in lagging. Technically all forms including white are ultimately pernicious and can lead to lung cancer if inhaled over sustained periods. Should you find asbestos, you should be careful not to break asbestos and professional advice should be sought urgently.

Surveyors will not tell you whether there is asbestos on a Poundbury survey. Surveyors will note potential asbestos and will recommend professional testing.

Will an infestation affect the purchase price of a Poundbury property. Do we need a residential surveyor?

Purchasers should know that is not a requirement that a seller report on an infestation. Unfortunately, the impact to a house and its inhabitants can put your health in danger and affect its value. Signs may not be obvious, for example, cluster, or swarming flies, are often found in lofts and can be a serious, seasonal annoyance if not treated. Remedies to insect infestation can include removal or excision of affected timber. Your RICS surveyor may report on signs of infestation, but if you have specific concerns they can be taken into account.

What will my Chartered Surveyor be focused on, on a stucco regency home in Poundbury.

Stucco is really a kind of smooth solid render. Normally it is applied to brick hardens to a smooth and attractive finish. It is highly attractive and is was often applied to Regency houses for example. Stucco is often prone to defect and Surveyors in Poundbury commonly focus on any number of problems e.g. when movement of the underlying wall results in cracks. Other potential problems might result from the supporting heavy loads such as cracking under the roof joists. Remedying problems can be surprisingly expensive as the skills are getting more difficult to find.

Our agent said that the had been a problem with damp - What should we check when the home is surveyed?

This is a common concern for home buyers with a roofing 'horror story' from a previous home. Homes throughout Poundbury could feature damage to the roof. From wind braces to trusses, every element of the roof should be reported on, and where the matter is serious, it should be rectified promptly.

It may be inconvenient to employ scaffolding to perform repairs, especially in the busy parts of Poundbury, but it is a health and safety necessity. Once the surveyor has delivered their report, consider arranging a quote from a Poundbury contractor for the job itself. Speak to Hearn Group of Hearn Group/Poundbury West Ind Est, Dorchester, DT1 2PG on 01305 753882 for an estimate.