Survey Back - 2 issues!

fivepound

Just had my survey back and the following was noted:

1. The electrical installation appears to be unsatisfactory. A competent electrician should fully test the system and effect re-wring or repair as necessary to comply with current institue of electrical engineers regulations. Reports and estimates should be obtained from specialists and trademen before legal commitment to purchase.

2. There is evidence the property has suffered structural movement. However, this movement appeared to be of some age and is not considered to be serious or progressive. Though, it is likely movement has ceased, no assurance can be given that this is the case as my inspection was of a limited visual nature for lending purposes only.

My question is: Does this sound like the surveyor simply covering the lenders back?

clutton_2

yes it does - As long as the movement is not considered progressive - no problems with lenders, and electrics - definitely a "back covering" - but i would ask an electrician for my own piece of mind

courtjester

I would say these are almost standard paragraphs that surveyors include as 'on-board' disclaimers of any possible liability. Probably just imported into all their reports automatically.

No standard survey covers electrical or gas installations, these always would require a separate report which few buyers tend to have done. For older property, the electrical installation almost certainly doesn't comply with current building (electrical) regulations, particularly were there may have been DIY wiring done at some point by a non-professional(which used to be legal).

It doesn't mean it's not safe or that any remedial work is required, the surveyors is merely pointing out that it may require attention.

However, I would certainly want to know more about why the surveyor has put in the caveat over 'evidence of structural movement' - check with the surveyor (they should be able to explain more over the telephone) what they are referring to. If they really are talking about 'movement', you can't take their comment that it 'appears to be old' as meaning that it won't move again in the future.

For belt and braces, this would really require further investigation and possibly monitoring - your solicitor should certainly be asking for information from the buyer as to their knowledge of the old movement and whether any claim for subsidence has been made in their ownership. You clearly need to ensure that your insurers are prepared to offer subsidence cover for the future of the building before committing to purchase.

fivepound

Thx.

Spoke to the lender but they won't give any more info out as it was only a valuation for them. I think the best thing to do is:

1. Check if any claim has ever been made?
2. Go and have a look myself!
3. After that, decide on a structural survey. I think they are about £250.

ukmike

After that, decide on a structural survey. I think they are about £250.

I think you are underestimating!