Need Advice please

beverley1962

Hi,

Just moved into my house in Dec last year. When i viewed the house i noticed a crack on the top of the bay window that also was evident in the wallpaper on the inside. Decided to go for the Homebuyer report that said that this was 'old movement' and didnt go on to suggest further investigation. 3 months on and re-decorating an upstairs bedroom i uncovered a large crack in the plaster/wall that starts at the top left of the room and comes out of the bottom right under the window. I called a structural engineer who said that the surveyor should have seen this and is liable. I've also found out from the neighbours that they rebuilt the sunken garage about 30 years ago. Just sooo worried that once try and claim i wont be able to afford the insurance on the house once 'subsidence' is mentioned to my insurer. I certainly would have thought twice if he had indicated a possible problem. I'm waiting for the engineers report. What do i do next?

Amphion

A homebuyers report is less comprehensive than a full structural survey but should still give a good indication of the overall condition the property is in.

To instruct your initial survey you should have signed some sort of contract/agreement, check this document to see exactly what was specified to be examined during the survey.
Usually the surveyor will report on all visible parts of the property so pulling up carpets and floorboards and pealing back wallpaper would not occur. If they see anything visible that looks untoward they will recommend further investigation and probably should have in this instance.
Ask the surveyor how they came to the conclusion that the crack was the result of “old movement”, what investigations did they carry out.

On a more positive note, it is possible that the original subsidence has been resolved and the cracks you are uncovering are remnants of the movement that were never filled in.

Wait for your engineers report and if needs be consult a solicitor for legal advice.

I hope you get it sorted.