Surveyors in Doncaster

I intend to buy a flat in Doncaster. What sort of survey should I instruct?

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Doncaster, 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 Doncaster 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.

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 buying on a Doncaster property 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 Doncaster 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.

I've put in an offer in Doncaster. What input does a Doncaster property surveyor give? Is brick more susceptible to the weather?

Brick-walled residential properties in Doncaster can be subject to numerous defects. An especially severe issue is thermal movement, particularly on longer walls. A local builder should be able to assist. Doncaster home purchasers may need to consider that a great deal of variety can be found across the UK. E.g. common bond, which is made up of stretchers (long faced bricks) with headers (the short face of the brick) every 6 courses or rows. Contact a specialist for more information if this is of interest.

What impact does clay soil have on a Doncaster home's foundations? Will the Property Survey consider this?

Clay soil is related to a handful of potentially severe defects, with severe changes in the water table level and considerable shifts in soil volume caused by variable moisture content being relatively common. There may be little evidence of underlying defects. For example, warping of floorboards may be benign, or a clue prompting a more thorough investigation. Taking precautions, such as keeping standing water on the property in check, can make long term maintenance easier, and keep repair costs manageable. If you are particularly concerned about a crack or other sign of movement, the surveyor can also report on whether it is recent, or an indication of much earlier subsidence.

We are buying a residence in Doncaster, does the residential surveyor check possible water damage, or if the garden has been affected?

Both buyers and homeowners in areas at risk of flooding are right to be worried. A flood alert service, with regular updates, is operated by the Environment Agency. Flooding can increase the likelihood of water entering a home, such as via loose patio doors. The Building Survey will also include details of any evidence of historical flooding and may comment generally about the area's propensity to flood. Oral enquiries can sometimes be made of the property owner or occupier, but this information may not be accurate.

Will a property in Doncaster with stone walls create more problems? Are there specific potential issues to consider, and will the surveyor offer any advice?

The sturdy appearance of stone walls may hide serious concerns. The properties of a stone can affect wear as much as upkeep or construction. Stone quarried in the area is common to local homes, but some do also feature cut stone brought from outside the county. Property surveys should give some repair guidance, like removal of invasive plants, such as ivy.

The vendor mentioned subsidence might be an issue. What subsidence-related matters will the Doncaster Property Surveyor reveal?

Movement of the foundations of a house is called subsidence. Many homes in Doncaster are constructed from a range of materials, and these will have varying rates of shrinkage. New cracks wider than 3mm to the brickwork or walls on the outside, or noticeable widening cracks which have remained stable for some time, may indicate subsidence. Organic material in the sub-soil can also create issues. A high-water table will ensure that organic materials in the soil, such as peat, do not decompose but if the soil dries out, this organic matter will rot. The weight of the foundations will then compress the subsoil. The root cause of any subsidence must be found before repairs can commence. Any further movement, or risk of movement, must be halted. Underpinning could be the only option in some cases, unfortunately. Underpinning the foundations will usually stop the foundations from further movement. It is, however, a time-consuming and costly process. Structural brickwork may need to be dismantled and rebuilt, or more cosmetic areas can effectively be repaired with resin filling in the cracks. This can also be time-consuming, and inconvenient. A Doncaster surveyor will be able to tell you if there is subsidence in your home or not, and what is causing it.