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Survey Problems and How to Avoid them

For anyone selling their house, waiting for the results of a homebuyer’s survey can be a taxing time. To help you avoid a nasty surprise, Estate Agent Today website looks at some of the key survey issues that can lead a sale to fall through.

Avoid survey problems
  • Loft conversions – these sought-after renovations must have proper building approval. Before your home goes up for sale, make sure you have all the correct documentation as well as adequate smoke alarms and fire doors. The same goes for basement conversions too.
  • Leaky roofs – can be a warning sign of other issues and often cause sales to fall through or to price renegotiations. If your roof hasn’t been checked in a while, consider arranging a comprehensive roof inspection before putting the property on the market.
  • Damp and decay – could mean leaky pipes, damage to damp membranes or faulty guttering, which, if ignored, will cause significant harm. If you suspect an issue, think about getting an independent damp specialist to check the property and recommend a solution.
  • Japanese Knotweed – this highly invasive plant that can cause significant damage to paths, gardens, and the structure of a property. But according to Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors guidance, sales can still go ahead if you are managing the problem correctly. If you suspect you have knotweed, get professional advice and put a management plan in place.
  • Cladding – some properties with cladding, including those over six storeys high, must have a valid EWS1 form, which provides assurance to both lenders and buyers. Applying for the form can take a long time, so begin your application as soon as possible before the property goes on the market.

Azeem S.

I began as a junior apprentice in a corporate estate agents in 2006 have been working in the property sector since, so over 14 years of experience. I have worked in a range of industries from Property sales and lettings, to construction, development, commercial sales and lets as well as facilities management and maintenance. I have a degree in Economics, enjoy keeping fit and healthy, support Man Utd and have a young family.

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