Home Buyers Survey in West Wimbledon

Is it best to select a Full Structural Survey, RICS Level 3 Survey or RICS Level 2 Survey on a home in West Wimbledon and which is cheaper?

The Full Structural Survey has been renamed a RICS Level 3 Survey, although it is effectively the same comprehensive survey.

If the West Wimbledon property is a flat, or is a period property, or has been structurally altered, or is of non standard construction, you should choose a cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you are planning to make an extension, RICS recommend you select a RICS Level 3 Survey. This more detailed survey is not as cheap as a RICS Level 2 Survey however it will give you comprehensive details of the West Wimbledon property's state of repair along with an opinion on defects as well as maintenance options .

For more detailed advice why not get an instant West Wimbledon Survey Quote or call 0800 022 4428 to speak to one of our advisers.

The brick on this West Wimbledon property might need repairs - what should we do? Does the age of the property matter?

West Wimbledon brick-walled residences can be affected by numerous defects, from efflorescence to cracks. For example, patchwork cracks caused by tie failure. This cracking may only be visible internally, and is accompanied by an irregular wall surface and may require immediate attention. Contact several local builders for quotes, including Edwards A J of 3 Forth Way, Halesowen, B62 9PR on 07976 753195.

One example is shiner bond or Monk bond may be used in the construction of residences in West Wimbledon. The advice of a brickwork specialist should be sought before attempting repairs.

Poor roof maintenance caused problems at our old property, and we are wary of potential roofing issues. What does the property surveyor look for?

This is frequently addressed by RICS surveyors. Homes throughout West Wimbledon can still be subject to damage to the roof, including. From collar ties to purlins, every element of the roof will be considered, and any defects addressed as soon as possible.

Re-flashing and re-tiling, among other aspects of roof repair, 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. It may be advisable to source an estimate for any work prior to exchange.

What should I be aware of when buying a flat next to a rubbish tip

Sites used for landfill are used for a variety of waste for example: domestic waste material. Understandably, no one ideally wants to live near one (4/5 people live within 1.5m of one!). Worries might include structurally instability .

Surveys in West Wimbledon will flag up any structural problems resulting from the site. Your legal representative will carry out conveyancing and environmental searches of the Environmental Agency databases as well as Merton Local Authority and inform you if the search uncovers a local landfill site .

Do all West Wimbledon surveys include a valuation and cost of rebuild estimate (including the cost of reconstructing a garage) and how is it calculated?

A RICS Level 2 Survey on a West Wimbledon property will contain an independent valuation as well as a reinstatement cost as an integral part of the report. To be able to determine an accurate value estimate your RICS valuer will combine local West Wimbledon market factors and other things about the property for instance: square metres.

Surveyors also evaluate materials used and will use key assumptions, for example the building connected to mains services such as electricity. Surveyors ignore certain things like sales incentives.

Further area conjectures, like service connections, are made in addition to any local environmental problems like industrial buildings, also being considered.

A RICS Level 3 Survey does not include a valuation as standard. A valuation can, however, be added for a small additional fee ; call for more info. Alternatively a Property Valuation Report (PVR) can be carried out.