Surveyors in West London

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

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in West 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 West 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 West 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. West 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 West 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 West 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.

The home we plan to buy in West London is built on clay soil. Can we expect the Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2)to mention this?

Clay soil is related to a handful of potentially severe defects. Specific problems include soil movement, capable of irreparably damaging a home if untreated. The consequences may take years to be noticed, or could be felt suddenly, such as a hard-to-open living room door. When performing your Home Buyers Survey (RICS Level 2) in West London, your surveyor will consider the impact the soil composition has had, and may have, on the property. If soil moisture levels must be kept stable, uniform spread of the moisture is essential. Subsidence and heave can be caused by a general increase or decrease in moisture, but isolated patches of wet and dry can just as easily warp foundations, putting them under even greater pressure.

Is there a flood risk in West London, and will the residential surveyor inquire into any flooding damage?

Flooding has become a serious concern. Those planning to buy in affected areas should weigh up their exposure. Your RICS surveyor may use several methods to determine if the West London house in question is in danger. Flooding can increase the likelihood of water entering a home, such as via door frames. The survey report will also include details of any evidence of historical flooding and may comment generally about the area's propensity to flood, the data used to compile third-party flood assessments also considers flood defences and historic claims.

Do we need to check gutters, and does our survey mention it?

Climate change is regularly in the news. However wet conditions and the effect it can have on homes are often overlooked by property buyers. For example, water pooling below gutters can often mean that the drainage systems are blocked. Fortunately, guttering issues are usually easy to resolve, if maintenance is taken seriously. If left untreated, however, the damage will impact both the home's value, and the residents' enjoyment of the property.

What will your RICS Surveyor look out for on a stucco Victorian house in West London that I am thinking of purchasing?

Stucco is in fact just a smooth and flat render. Commonly it is applied to underlying brick hardens to a smooth and even finish. Stucco is highly attractive and is common on some Victorian and Regency buildings. It may contain lime (which makes it set harder) in it in addition to animal fibres to stop cracks. it can be prone to defect and West London Home Buyers Surveys sometimes show defects like trapped moisture resulting in the render failing requiring costly repairs. Other potential problems may include when the render has been taken down to ground level and short circuits the Damp Proof Course (DPC). Re-applying problems can be costly as craftsmen are becoming rarer.

We are buying in West London. What will we need to think about when buying a house built in around 1790? Will the age of the house be an issue?

A building's age can create difficulties for an owner. Properties featuring traditional or "vernacular" techniques can be surprisingly expensive to upkeep. It is often the case that specialist knowledge is necessary, and it could also be necessary to find. Construction materials, such as matching tiles, which could increase the importance of getting a comprehensive building survey.