survey report ?movement

laface

We want to buy a mid terrace victorian house built in 1900's.
The property is going on auction, we got a Homebuyers report which shows some evidence of movement. I am not an expert or builder, but was not sure if this needed major work. I did contact a structural surveyor but this would take ages as the auction is in 2 weeks time.
I really wanted advice on whether such things are common in houses of this age or shall I call it quits at this stage.
Any comments will be useful
Note: it is a mid terrace house- will I not sink with the neighbours?
Will I have problems reselling this house in years to come?

MOVEMENT:
Evidence of movement is seen in the form of cracking to the rear elevations along with some internal cracking to wall and ceiling surfaces, rucking of wallpaper and sloping floors, etc. It is not possible to say that further significant movement will not occur. From a single inspection further advice cannot be given and therefore you should seek specialist advice.
ACTION: prior to exchange of contracts you should instruct a structural engineer to provide a full report to identify cayse and extent of faults and remedial work to ensure further stability of the building......

ANY SUGGESTIONS???:rotfl:

benjo

Not an expert, but I have paid for a few surveys of property in years gone by, it isnt rare for surveys to mention that there is evidence of movement, however without a structural survey it isnt possible or sensible for people writing the reports to comment on whether the movement is recent, old, ongoing etc so they usually cover themselves by recommending a full structural survey.

Most houses 'settle' in the years after being built, now if that is 150 years ago and it hasnt moved in 140 years you are probably safe - but if it has recently started to move, then you have a problem, and unless I were a builder/structural engineer I wouldnt like to say which was the case.

If it were me, I would bite the bullett and get a survey done prior to bidding, unless you know a friendly builder who you can really trust.

Best of luck.

Doozergirl

The advice is given by the surveyor!

They can't say that the movement hasn't stopped therefore, unless you are buying with cash and prepared to undertake any possible work and adjust the price you are prepared to pay accordingly, you mustn't continue without a structural engineers report.

If you call a few structural engineers you will find one that will be able to come out and give you a verbal appraisal at least. A written report probably isn't necessary unless you decide to go ahead. I'd be very careful if you need a mortgage.