Underpinning

shimano

We just had a structural survey on a house we are buying. One of the issues that came out was a vertical crack from top to the bottom in the extension, with cause attributed to the next door neighbour's extension construction. The remediation recommended is an underpin, specifically "a remedial underpin (or equivalent remedial support such as helical pile)"

What worries me is not so much getting money off etc, it is the longer lasting effects this will have. For example, it's on a party wall, why wasnt it remediated by the current vendors if caused by the next door neighbours, is there a dispute, and that it will come out for any future buyer, insurance etc.

I am half tempted to pull out on this because I don't want the risk over hanging. This is not a forever home, which factors in this as well. Everyone I speak to seems to know someone who has been in this situation and has had bad experiences in resolving / selling on etc.

Anyone been in this situ?

princeofpounds

Not been in it, but I understand your caution.

shimano

The EA reaction when I told them (awaiting final report) was a wall of silence and didn't know what to say, and I cannot trust them to get any real facts (e.g. on the neighbouring property etc).

I am awaiting to speak to the engineer to understand our risks, but from what I see, if we get it remediated, it will forever be declared as "has subsidence/heave".

jbainbridge

Obviously speak to your surveyor.

I think though I would be looking elsewhere. Really the vendor and neighbour need to be resolving this - I would be reluctant to move in and then possibly have an immediate dispute with next door!

shimano

Exactly. Just had the EA call me (mortgage valuation was today)

"It looked superficial"
"Didnt notice it"
"I spoke to the surveyor he didnt notice it"

The thing that gets me the most is why the owners didnt do anything, especially as it was clearly caused by the neighbour's recent extension. Wouldn't be surprised if there was an ongoing dispute...

jbainbridge

Don't forget -
1. the EA isn't working for you
2. they want a sale
3. they won't be living in the house and have to deal with it

maninthestreet

Presumably, you are still waiting for your (proposed) lender to make their mortgage offer to you? If so, they may make your decision for you, and refuse to lend on the property.

shimano

We are indeed, waiting the results of it (should be today or tomorrow). More I look into it, more I get concerned giving it involves a neighbour etc. I do get the feeling there's more to it they won't say (they seemed to be very forthcoming about proposing a drop in the offer, my experience before would say that if they are sure it's not a major issue, they will stand firm)