Surveyors in Northumberland

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

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Northumberland, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on a number of 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 Northumberland 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 Northumberland. 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 Northumberland 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 bidding on a Northumberland property that hasn't been renovated in decades, 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 Northumberland 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.

What suggestions can a Northumberland surveyor make for property built from Diagonal bond walls?

Brick-constructed flats in Northumberland feature several advantages compared to other building materials, but they can also show signs of various issues and defects, from DPC failure to defective mortar. Defects like this ought to be referenced in the survey. One problem often found is rusted ties (this decay can be accelerated by black ash mortar often found in older properties). This expansion of the ties as they rust causes horizontal cracks leading to structural issues. Northumberland property purchasers may need to consider that a selection of different courses and brick making techniques have been used across the country for centuries, and as such, repairs may be more involved than they appear.

We are buying a home built on very clay-rich soil. Is this going to cause problems? Does a Home Survey discuss soil composition in the report, and what defects will be reported on?

The content of soil around the foundations of a Northumberland property will have an impact. In Northumberland's relatively mild climate, the variations in volume which clay soil experiences will be barely noticeable but extended dry or wet spells may well impact the soil's stability and affect the property itself. For example, warping of floorboards may be benign, or a clue prompting a more thorough investigation.

Do stone-walled houses cause problems for buyers? What related issues should we be aware of?

Maintenance costs for stone-built property in Northumberland can be higher than for more standard. Faults common to poorly maintained stone walls can include erosion. Irregular stone often has a more rustic appearance, but the mortar used may be susceptible to a higher rate of decay. 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. A survey will include a range of suggestions or requirements for maintenance, such as removal of invasive plants, such as ivy.