Survey shows suspected dry rot

nmbe

We are in the process of buying a 1940s ex local authority property. We knew there would be issues and have budgeted for this. The survey shows suspected dry rot though. How do we get an understanding of how extensive it is, and therefore how much it would cost to put right? I'm guessing that is that this would involve lifting existing coverings etc and will be pretty disruptive. The property is currently carpeted and heavily wallpapered & someone (not the seller - a relative of theirs) is living there. I feel like we can't proceed if we can't get a clear idea of whether we can afford it so our only option is to pull out. Anyone have any other ideas or insight? Thanks in advance!

Ulfar

I would either get a full structural survey making the surveyor aware of your concerns prior to survey, or run away.

I had a flat with Dry rot and it isn't fun. I would never take on a building with it unless it was a full refurbishment and the price would have to be very attractive.

nmbe

Thanks Ulfar. It is good to hear that we are right to be alarmed.

The suspected dry rot was found in a structural survey. But there was a limit to what he could see due to existing coverings etc. Can we get a more detailed survey by a specialist (that would be quite disruptive and someone is living there)? Has anyone been in this position??

Talc1234

Pull out because you don't need the hassel (unless it is a bargin)

Ulfar

Maybe things have changed since I last moved but a full structural survey should be slightly destructive and should involve moving carpets etc.

Otherwise how is it different to a home buyers survey.

To be honest if you can tell its got dry rot from this cursory inspection I would run away.

Lord_Baltimore

I wouldn't go near the place with a bargepole. Dry rot is a nightmare and spraying it with chemicals probably won't get rid of it. It can extend through mortar and the fruiting body of dry rot will issue millions of spores inside the property making virtually all wood at risk.

Walk away. No, run away.

nmbe

just wanted to give an update on this, in case anyone finds themselves in the same position and comes across this thread. We got a more specific survey by a damp specialist company. This showed an old infestation of wood boring beetle in one room and some wet rot in the bathroom. No dry rot. We got a couple of quotes to fix these and it looked manageable. We didn't want to go through renegotiating cost/ mortgage etc (more due to time than anything) and so informally agreed with the sellers they would give us some money for new floors on completion. We knew this wasn't legally binding but, miraculously, it worked out. I guess we are lucky .