Property Defects
When buying a property in London, it’s important to be aware of potential defects that could affect the building’s structure and your enjoyment of the home. Instructing an RICS surveyor to carry out a Level 1 or Level 2 survey will help to identify any hidden property defects.
Identifying Common Property Defects
Some common property defects to look out for include:
- Damp
- Rot
- Subsidence
- Sub-standard wiring
- Roof issues
Even plumbing issues like leaky pipes can also cause thousands of pounds worth of damage. Being aware of these potential defects will help you identify any problems early on.
An experienced surveyor can spot defects you may not have noticed during a property viewing. Their professional advice will help you make a more informed decision on whether the property is a smart purchase.
How Property Surveys Highlight Hidden Issues
Property surveys are invaluable for unveiling hidden defects and structural problems. A homebuyer’s report carried out by a RICS surveyor provides detailed insights into a property’s condition. The surveyor will conduct a thorough visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home, and highlight any signs of damp, rot, subsidence and other issues.
They can use equipment like moisture meters, infrared cameras and drones to identify problems not visible to the naked eye. Thermal imaging can reveal areas of heat loss and damp concealed behind walls.
The survey report will clearly outline any urgent repairs needed along with ongoing maintenance recommendations. This gives buyers information on any existing or potential defects, which can be used to renegotiate the purchase price if applicable.
Damp, Rot, and Subsidence: What to Look For
Around 6% of homes in London suffer from damp issues. Condensation is very common, and damp, rot and subsidence are three of the most concerning property defects for homeowners.
Signs of damp in a property include peeling wallpaper, bubbling paint, salts on the wall, black mould growth, a musty odour and stained walls or ceilings.
Building movement caused by subsidence may be visible as diagonal cracks across walls, sticking doors/windows and new cracks above windows.
Rot can be harder to spot but sagging floors, crumbling brickwork and loose roof tiles can indicate fungi decay. Wet rot thrives in damp conditions like leaky roofs and plumbing. Dry rot spreads via touch and can be concealed behind walls.
A very damp property is also more susceptible to woodworm, which can cause major structural damage if untreated. Being vigilant about inspecting the property yourself and getting a thorough professional survey is key to uncovering these defects early.
Defect Diagnosis Reports: Protecting Your Investment
Before committing to a property purchase it’s wise to invest in a defect diagnosis report. This specialist survey by a chartered building surveyor provides an in-depth analysis of the building’s condition. The surveyor will conduct an extensive visual inspection of the property’s exterior and interior, and use moisture meters, endoscopes and other technology to identify any issues. Thermal imaging can reveal hidden damp and heat loss not visible to the naked eye.
The report will provide detailed information on the source and extent of any defects found, categorised by urgency. It will also estimate repair costs and offer recommendations for preventative maintenance.
Though an additional upfront cost, a survey offers invaluable peace of mind. It ensures any major structural issues are addressed before purchase, protecting your investment and avoiding any nasty surprises further down the line.
Being clued up on common property defects, getting a professional property survey and investing in a defect diagnosis report are vital steps to take when buying a property in London. Taking these precautions will help avoid expensive repair bills and allow you to fix any problems at the outset, giving you the reassurance of moving into a structurally sound property.
