There is a lot to arrange when you’re trying to buy a property. You will have to view a number of different properties to find the one that could be your dream home, and you will also have to sort out your finances.
However, there is one important part of buying a house that quite a few people forget. And that is getting a survey. Survey are there to help you make a decision when it comes to choosing a property. They will bring up any problems with the property’s structure. And also let you know if any major repairs will need doing on the building work in the near future. They are a great way of preventing any surprises cropping up once you move in!
If you are considering buying an old property, then a survey is especially worthwhile, particularly if the roof is thatched. They aren’t as necessary on new builds or modern homes, but it is still worth one having one done. Especially if the building has been empty for a long period of time before you move in.
There are four main types of surveys. Most buyers usually only get one carried out on a property, but you can choose to do more if you want to know as much as possible about the house.
A Condition Report
This survey will tell you about the overall condition of the house, without getting too bogged down in the particulars. It is a very basic survey that can give reassurance to those who aren’t too clued up on property. The results will be presented in a colour-coded way. Green means everything is ok with the house. An orange result raises some cause for concern. If the result is red, then some serious repairs will need to be made as soon as possible.
A Home Buyers Report
Slightly more detailed than the condition report, this survey will tell you about any major problems. And also about the home’s valuation. However, the report isn’t intrusive, and the surveyors won’t go into a lot of detail while inspecting the property. But it still provides a lot more information than the basic condition report.
A Building Survey
Possibly the most expensive survey to get, building surveys are certainly worth the investment. The surveys are extensive and will provide you with a very detailed report at the end to help you consider whether the property is worth buying. These surveys are worthwhile if you are looking at a very old property or are considering doing a lot of building work once you have moved in.
An Asbestos Survey
Asbestos Surveys are especially important in old buildings that may contain asbestos. This poisonous material was once used widely in construction until it was found to be harmful to humans. This survey will look at your property to see if there is any asbestos in it. If so, you can then organise for it to be replaced with a safer material.
Thanks to these surveys, you can feel much more confident about the next property you purchase!