Surveyors in Lincolnshire

I'm thinking of buying a Victorian detached property in Lincolnshire, is it best to spend a bit more on a full building survey?

If you are buying an unusual type of property such as a period house a Building Surveys (RICS Level 3) is the right type of RICS survey suited to you. Following a thorough inspection of the home's accessible parts, this survey provides in depth details and often crucial information about the home's construction and uses as well as any maintenance needs. If there are any permanent, external buildings, these will also be surveyed as part of the survey.

I'm buying a Lincolnshire 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 and Safety Executive.

We're buying a period property in Boston in a conservation area. What do we need to know?

Boston Town Centre Conservation Area is considered by Historic England to be at risk. What this means is there has been a continued loss of the special characteristics that define its unique qualities. Responsibility for this conservation area lies with Boston Borough Council. Property prices are generally higher than elsewhere as many of these areas have retained their original character.

RICS approved surveyors are required to have knowledge of relevant local factors and any connection these may have on a building. Surveyors will note if the property looks to be classified and Section I of the Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) will advise whether further investigations are raised during the conveyancing process. Unsympathetic adjustments to the property may also be advised but these are more of a concern for your conveyancer.

We are interested in buying a barn conversion in Lincolnshire. 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 Lincolnshire 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.

We are buying a Lincolnshire house which has clay foundations. Does the property survey cover this?

Without due care and attention, foundations dug into clay soil can quickly suffer adverse effects. Uneven soil compaction and the movement of clay soil layers can happen when changes in the soil's water content take place, often resulting in putting a home's foundations under great strain.

Expansive and reactive types of clay soil can also be troublesome. Expansive clay soil is particularly sensitive to shifts in water content and signs, such as hard-to-open garage doors or cracked plaster, can be early indications of very serious structural issues. Taking steps to ensure rainwater goods and drainage all function efficiently can help to maintain clay-rich soil. However, you should discuss specifics with your surveyor if extensive upkeep is needed. In some more extreme cases, the building foundations may need extra support, but this can be costly.

We are buying a house in Grimsby. Will our Lincolnshire surveyor look for flood damage?

Flooding in Grimsby can cause severe damage to both contents and property. A surveyor has a number of options to assess whether a property is vulnerable. Flood water can enter a house through a number of routes, including air bricks, poorly fitted doors and windows, and seepage through external walls. Section J of the Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) contains details, where applicable, of flooding risks found within the boundaries of the house or on adjacent sites. Flooding issues will only be raised in this section if the surveyor observes or has reason to suspect that the house is at risk.

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 should we do about roof repairs?

Homes that have no other major issues may be exposed to roof damage. From ceiling joists to rafters, the whole roof must be reviewed, and where the matter is serious, it should be rectified promptly. It can be inconvenient to employ scaffolding to perform repairs, especially in busy areas, but it is a health and safety necessity. Once the surveyor has delivered their report, consider arranging a quote from a contractor to work on the repairs.