Surveyors in City Of London

I intend to buy a flat in the City of London. What sort of survey should I instruct?

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in The City of London, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on several 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 The City of London 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 listed building in the City of London. What should we look out for?

Some buyers have looked at purchasing a home with character. Older construction methods and materials, however, can sometimes be an issue. City of London houses built with traditional methods can be surprisingly expensive to maintain, and you could also be required to find sympathetic construction materials, such as matching stone or wood. You should bear in mind that expert knowledge may be needed. This may mean it is a good idea to discuss current upkeep needs with the seller.

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 City of London 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 City of London 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.

We are intending to buy a ground floor apartment in London, does the residential surveyor look for flooding?

As with many aspects of home ownership, flood prevention is better and cheaper than a cure. Flooding can increase the likelihood of water entering a City of London home, such as via window frames. Preventative measures can include costly but effective solutions e.g. the use of lime-based plaster on walls. The surveyor may ask the estate agent about historical floods, although the result of these inquiries should be treated as a guide only.

What sort of issues will a Property Surveyor look for on a stucco rendered regency home in the City of London?

Stucco (aka pargetting) is in fact just a form of render. Usually, stucco is applied to brick that sets to a smooth surface that is sometimes scored to resemble stone. The effect is very attractive and was found on Victorian and Georgian houses. It is made from an aggregate, a binder and water. Stucco is often problematic and City of London Homebuyer Reports (RICS Level 2) commonly detail issues which might include trapped water resulting in damp problems. Other potential problems could include attacks from salts derived from wet bricks. Re-covering problems may be dear as renderers are getting more difficult to find.