Survey flags problems

KTJ_2

We just had our valuation/survey report back for the house we are buying.

its flagged a problem with timber decay in the floor joists and a beetle infestation.

We will have to get a Damp & Timber report completed.

Can anybody give me advice on how we go about re-negotiating with the vendor to cover the costs for repair? Do we go through the solicitors or the EA?

santana-mx3

Our survey found problems and our mortgage offer was conditional on them being put right. The EA wanted us to send him the information. We phoned the solicitor to ask if that was ok to do or if we should send it to him (sol). He said it was ok to send it to the EA and just send him a copy so he is kept involved. The EA wants his commission quickly so is very keen to get things sorted with the vendor. I don't think the solicitor would work as quickly.

Note that in our case, we are not looking to re-negotiate the price if the vendor will get the work done himself, to be inspected by our surveyor when finished so we are sure it is done correctly.

Only if the vendor won't get the work done, will we resort to re-negotiating the price. We don't want the hassle of organising the work ourselves and we need it done for the mortgage so if the vendor will get it sorted to the required standard, that suits us. The vendor can also see that we are not simply trying to find excuses to knock the price down.

no1gymbunny

Ask the EA to get a quotation for having the work done. I've just dealt with the same problem myself (I'm an EA). I sold a 1930s semi which, thankfully, is vacant. I got a contrcator to attend the property. The carpets will need to be lifted. There was quite a bit to do and all the carpets had to be removed and stored in the garage. It cost our vendor about £400 plus £80 for an extended guarantee (about 15-20 years). The vendor was happy to pay the money and all's good. It will obviously be more difficult if your property is not vacant due to access. So many people are scared off by required works being noted in a survey - it doesn't always cost what you think it will.

KTJ_2

I've sinced found out that appearently the Vendor had a problem with wood worm back in 1995 and had it treated then. The work was guaranteed for 30 years.

However, this doesnt prove tha there isnt a problem. I think i'll still get the survey done for my own piece of mind. Luckily I have contacts who can get the survey done for me hopefully for free.

I'm more concerned about there actually being a problem and having to decide whether to pull out or to negotiate the sale price and who actually gets the work done.

....im just hoping the problem is historical and everything is ok.

no1gymbunny

There are 2 choices here - the vendor coughs up and gets the survey/work done or you negotiate a reduction. This happens all the time. You mentioned that there is a guarantee on works already carried out. If the problem has worsened since the original works, then ask the vendor to use the guarantee and get it done for free!