Surveyors in Northamptonshire

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

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

The home we plan to purchase in Northamptonshire is built on clay soil. Can the surveyor investigate this?

Soil composition can have a great impact on a house. Issues range from sub-soil shrinkage to considerable shifts in soil volume caused by variable moisture content, both of which can put a house's foundations under great strain. Defects can be obvious to the naked eye or may remain undiscovered (and therefore untreated) for years. Signs like a sticking door in the lounge or small cracks in the lounge floor can be early indications of very serious structural issues. You should discuss specifics with the surveyor.

We are purchasing a maisonette in Northamptonshire; will the surveyor investigate possible flood damage?

Flood water can enter a property through several routes, including air bricks, poorly fitted doors and windows, and seepage through external walls. An awareness of characteristics of the Northamptonshire area likely to affect the property will enable the surveyor to advise if flooding may be a risk.

I have put in an offer on a Northamptonshire property with a loft conversion. What will our surveyor keep an eye out for during their investigation?

Questions like this are often asked of building surveyors by Northamptonshire buyers who are aware that property can still suffer roof maintenance problems. From the rafters to the ridge flashing, the status of the whole roof should be reviewed. Problems can often arise in the case of flat roofs, caused by a poor asphalt covering.

I am buying a stone-walled home in Northamptonshire. Which problems should we consider, and what will the survey reveal?

Defects affecting stone-built houses can vary, deteriorating bedding being relatively common. Stone quarried in the area is common to local houses, but some do also feature cut stone brought from outside the county. Regular courses of ashlar (cut stone) are often used as a finish to irregular stone walls, with mortared rubble or brick hidden behind. Maintenance tips include replacing missing or badly worn stones.