Surveyors in Norwich

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

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Norwich, 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 Norwich 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 Norwich. 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 Norwich 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 Norwich 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 Norwich 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 am purchasing a Norwich house and am concerned that the clay soil foundations have suffered some subsidence. Can my Norwich Home Buyers Report (RICS Level 2) investigate this? Does the chartered surveyor give maintenance advice?

The content of soil around the foundations of a property in Norwich can have unwanted consequences, with groundwater level variations and movement of clay soil layers resulting from changes in their water content being relatively common. In Norwich's relatively mild climate, the variations in volume which clay soil experiences will be barely noticeable but extended dry or wet spells may well impact the soil's stability and affect the property itself. Visible results may be anything from widening cracks to sticking doors. Steps like monitoring the moisture content of the soil around the foundations and taking steps to keep the level reasonably stable can help maintain clay-rich soil, but a purchaser should discuss specifics with the surveyor if extensive upkeep is warranted. Additional strengthening or support of the structure's foundations may be required, including underpinning or piling.

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

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 Norwich 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.

I have been told that subsidence in Norwich might be an issue. What subsidence issues will the property survey examine?

Subsidence refers to the movement of a house and its foundations. Home buyers can confuse subsidence with settlement. Settlement does occur in newly constructed houses and is rarely a cause for concern. The property's weight can cause the ground beneath the foundations to compact, which will cease after a matter of months. In the case of new builds, the builder should return to a new house within a few months in order to make repairs. Soil on ground which slopes downward is not as stable as that sitting flat and can sometimes become unstable and start to slip downhill. In some cases, the presence of organic material, which then decomposes, can also destabilise all or part of a foundation. This will cause the soil beneath and around the foundations to collapse. Learning the cause of any subsidence should be the first priority. Any further movement, or risk of movement, must be halted. Underpinning could be the only option in some cases, unfortunately. Underpinning involves holes being dug 1 metre long and around 1.5 metres deep, along all affected sections of wall, and just beneath the present foundations. Reinforcement bars and concrete are then inserted into these pits to support the structure, as the rest of the foundations are dug out and similarly filled in with concrete. A surveyor will be able to recommend who to speak to about the best course of action, when it comes to tree removal.