Should I get a survey?

jaygatsby

Hi everybody

I am buying a newly built flat - it has already been completed but they are doing some finishing touches i.e. installing the kitchen appliances etc. I have paid the reservation deposit so the property is off market and we have agreed on a price. We haven't exchanged contracts yet.

Should I get a survey for the property? It is a new build so I would expect everything to be in order, however one can never be too cautious. What type of survey should I get? I heard that there are some surveys that are specially designed for new build properties - does anyone know about these?

How much should I expect to pay? Will I have to pay in addition for the valuation by my mortgage provider or can these two be combined?

Thanks

didgemaster

You say that the flat is a brand new build - does it come with any sort of guarantee?

white_noise

as said above look out to see if there are any NHBC warrenties
WN

daveyjp

My sister didn't have a survey with a new build - I found a list of problems including one which would have caused penetrating damp - she has now found out the property doesn't meet building regs!

Warranties are OK, but they have more holes than a large sieve - including in my sister's case the property not meeting building regs as the property isn't dangerous as a result. Better to be aware before you sign than after and you find problems.

A colleague has just taken 7 years to resolve a serious problem on his apartment block which came with a guarantee.

You could engage the services of a snagging surveyor who will check for any faulty workmanship.

jaygatsby

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. To answer your question didgemaster, yes it does come with a 10 year NHBC guarantee, that's the prime reason for considering not doing a survey on it. Also, some residents that already moved in said that the developers are very good with fixing any small faults that one might notice after moving in. Plus, I don't quite fancy spending additional £600 on a survey that might not tell me anything I don't know already or I couldn't see myself. On the other hand, if something does go wrong, I will regret not doing it...

slosher

Watch last nights watchdog, there was a section on the NHBC that might make your mind up for you, should be able to watch it online.

pararct

slosher wrote: »

Watch last nights watchdog, there was a section on the NHBC that might make your mind up for you, should be able to watch it online.

A result of which left me with the distinct impression these warranties are not worth much more than the paper they are printed upon. They will use any excuse possible not to effect repairs... Carpet underlay responsible for interior damp my backside.

The organisation is funded by the house builders, what's the betting that funding has taken a hit over the last 2 or 3 years since the construction downturn.

What clearly worked for them in a rising market might not be in a stagnant or falling market. Think of it like a ponzi scheme which in all reality is exactly what it is.