Home Buyers Survey in Waltham Abbey

Should I select a RICS Level 2 Survey, Full Structural Survey or RICS Level 3 Survey for a property in Waltham Abbey and which is cheaper?

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

If the Waltham Abbey property is an apartment, or is an older property, or has been extended, or is of non standard construction (i.e. not made of bricks), RICS recommend the cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you are thinking about whether to do any major works, RICS recommend you select a RICS Level 3 Survey. The RICS Level 3 Survey is not as cheap but it will give comprehensive details of the Waltham Abbey property's state of repair in addition to advice on defects and maintenance options .

If in doubt why not obtain a Waltham Abbey Homebuyers Survey Quote online or call us 08000327649 to speak to a member of our team.

We are planning to buy a cottage and the vendor has stated that it has been built with Darley Dale stone. What problems should we be aware of, and what will the survey reveal?

Stone walls often appear more robust than they are. Issues including displacement affect many stone-walled houses.

Regular stone walls are built with prepared or cut stone, called ashlar, and are often easier to maintain than irregular walls. Buyers should consider that stone can have a great effect on the long-term viability of a property or extension, resulting in higher repair costs in future. For example, slate is far more water-resistant than many other stones. Upkeep advice often given in a survey includes resolution of underlying problems, like damp, before work on the wall starts.

The seller's agent said there may be a danger of white asbestos Fuse box affecting the maisonette. What is asbestos and can it be easily removed?

Asbestos was not fully prohibited until the late 90's so houses built earlier than that date may have traces of asbestos. Asbestos is a harmful material formed from metamorphic rocks. There are over 60 types, 6 of which were used in the UK and are often found in the building materials e.g. garage roofs. Its use is widespread, for example - as it has a range of useful characteristic resistance to chemical damage qualities and it may be found in shed roofs. It is found all over the world including South Africa.

All forms including Chrysotile are pernicious and may lead to lung cancer or asbestosis if inhaled over sustained periods. Contrary to common perception, inhaling a one fibre is not deadly.

If discovered, one must be careful on no account to displace it. Professional advice must be taken ASAP. Professional removal of asbestos can be expensive but must be conducted by trained experts.

Surveyors do not confirm the existence asbestos during a Waltham Abbey RICS Level 3 Survey. However they will note potential asbestos during the survey and will inform you of the options.