Noob Q-Is it true Full structural surveys' aren't necessary for Leasehold properties?

cluelessinseattle

I'm looking at buying an ex-warner flat.

I've been speaking to a mortgage lender about taking out a mortgage.

One of the questions was 'would i be interested in a valuation survey or a homebuyers survey?'.

When i enquired about a full structural survey, they answered it wasn't necessary on a lease hold flat as the landlord/freeholder is responsble for the building. (its a two storey building.)

Does this sound correct?

TIA

Clueless...

Doozergirl

The freeholder is responsible but it's the leaseholders that pay for it so that's a bit of a funny answer.

That said, it's pretty impossible to do a full structural survey on a building that is much larger than the part you have access to. You can't examine the loft space on a ground floor flat...

I'd probably go for a Homebuyers but try and have a chat with the surveyor once he's made his report if his opinions on the general appearance of the structure aren't detailed enough for you. You paid them for their service so they are happy to speak to you to clarify. A good question, if you are frightened by something he says, begins 'if it were you buying it, what would you do...'

cluelessinseattle

Thanks, I'm feeling a little less worried now lol I'd always told myself that when i bought a place i would have the full structural survey done so i wouldnt fall victim to any structural problems.....only to find that its not an option on the property i'm trying to buy lol

G_M

Personally I see no difference between a house or flat when it comes to survey. As flat-owner/leaseholder, you will bear (a share of) the cost, and disruption, of any major repairs which the property might need in the future. OK it's a shared cost, whereas a house owner bears the full cost alone, but then flats tend to be in bigger buildings than houses, so bigger roofs, more external painting etc.

Whether a full structural survey is needed as opposed to a Homebuyers report, depends on age/type of building etc , not whether it's a house/flat.

No idea what 'ex-warner' means so can't comment there!

EmsLdn

G_M wrote: »

No idea what 'ex-warner' means so can't comment there!

Ex-Warner flats or Cottage flats are purpose built flats put up around the turn of the centrury.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warner_flat

More information on them here