Avoiding questions!

kiki*_2

Hi there,

We are in the process of buying a house, Offer was accepted 8 weeks ago, in a chain so we knew we would have to wait but a few things the sellers are now doing are a little suspicious!

First one, survey mentioned that the water tank was being renewed on day of survey. We are still waiting to find out why!

We specifically asked on viewing if boiler had been serviced we were told no but a check had been done in 2010. We have asked for documentation to prove this and they say they weren't given any and they don't want to obtain a duplicate as this will cost.

Is any of this suspicious to others? I'm a ftb so am very wary but also getting a little annoyed! I'm a teacher on summer hols and really want to move in next 6 weeks!

tanith

Well it depends on how much you want the house... the boiler may be in working order but also may need renewing if thats a deal breaker then walk away now... personally I'd be prepared to pay for a new boiler if it meant getting the house of my dreams...

pararct

Did the survey mention which water tank? There may be two depending on the type of boiler you have, a copper cylinder for storing hot water which will invariably have a plastic loft header tank.
Both these can fail over time and spring gradual leaks. It would be a normal maintenance task to change it for new.

I wouldn't read too much into. As for the boiler they simply need to say that it works, when you occupy it either will or it will not. If it does not then you may have some sort of redress. If a working boiler is important to you then you should be able to arrange for your engineer to go on site inspect and provide you with a report. Of course this will come with a price tag. If the vendor flatly refuses access then smell a rat, although most I am sure would not refuse a reasonable request.

kiki*_2

We wanted to pay for a new boiler anyway as we want a combi. It's more that we want to know it's working at the moment so that we can use it for a month or so before renewing.

pararct

kiki* wrote: »

We wanted to pay for a new boiler anyway as we want a combi. It's more that we want to know it's working at the moment so that we can use it for a month or so before renewing.

In that case you simply need them to confirm it is in working order.

Once the combi is installed you may be able to sell whichever new tank it is they have installed as it may not be needed...;)

mrcow

My boiler gets checked over once a year with BG, as does everyone's who has a Homecare package. If you asked me for documentation half way through a house buy, I'd tell you to go away too. It's an unnecessary faff.

Get it checked out yourself when you move in. You either want the house or you don't.

kiki*_2

They have said we are welcome to send someone round but I don't think we should pay the cost for something they have said they have already done. We have already been very understanding about an asbestos garage and a landfil site. The gas is a step too far!

Littlemissteapot

I'm also in the process of buying a house and like you (for different reasons) I've have concerns about the boiler, the electrics etc. To help with my stress levels I decided to have an independent plumber and electrician in, for their opinion and report etc. It's helped me as I'm not relying on the party who's sole interest is in selling the house. It just cost less than couple of hundred quid (total) but I've read the reports that basically say 'all is fine but in a some years you'll need a combi' etc, etc.
As it worked for me, I will suggest to send in an independent professional that would act on your behalf.
Good luck with your move.

kiki*_2

Thank you little miss tea pot. Can I ask how old your boiler/house is?

Littlemissteapot

Kiki - sorry for the delay in replying.

The house is C1998 and the boiler/electrics are original.

Both reports also provided me with some recommendations .ie. additional isolators in the kitchen. I found it helpful because I would like a new kitchen (Its still the original kitchen in place) and I can implement some of the recommendations at the time I'm costing up my kitchen.

I'm much more happier to proceed with the purchase now.

mrcow

kiki* wrote: »

They have said we are welcome to send someone round but I don't think we should pay the cost for something they have said they have already done. We have already been very understanding about an asbestos garage and a landfil site. The gas is a step too far!

If it's a step too far, then so be it.
Tell them you've changed your mind about the house and don't waste any more people's time.

Personally I think it a trivial reason to stop a house buy. The fact that the boiler was checked out a year ago is completely irrelevent. Boilers should be checked annually anyway. Get it done once you've moved in.