Damp Proof Course Guarantee Transfer Cost

james.parsons

Hi,

I have recently bought my first property. The previous owners had a damp proof course installed which we have the guarantee for but need to transfer it.

On calling Timberwise (who undertook the work) they have told me it will cost £120 (including VAT) to transfer it into my name.

Is this cost reasonable? Why is it so much just to change a bit of text?

Any help appreciated

James

macman

No it is not reasonable, it costs them a few pounds to update it and reissue it. But they know that you have no option if you want it transferred, so they can charge a stupid fee.
Claiming under these warranties is rarely possible anyway, and the providers regularly go out of business, so unless it's got years to run, it may not be worth bothering.

DRP

^as above.

I wouldn't pay - it is largely useless apart from the 'reassurance' it gives future buyers (their conveyancers/lenders).

james.parsons

thank you both for your quick replies. The guarantee has about another 16 years on it. I should probably also say that it is also for some timber treatment downstairs (wood rot / infestation). I don't know if that has a bearing on your opinion (?!).

DRP - that was going to be my next question. IF we didn't get it, then when we sold on what issues might it cause us if the buyer picks up on it? Would it be a simple case of getting some indemnity insurance?

Also, why is it largely useless?

Cheers

DRP

Firstly because most DPC are not needed as rising damp is controversial and probably very rare (imo).

Secondly my experience is that these companies either disappear or charge you quite a lot to come and inspect the failed DPC, and then tell you it is your fault. I would say this is corroborated by lots of stories on here and around the internet world.

When you sell the conveyancer will want to see the paperwork - so you may have to pay the transfer then anyway.

Grenage

It's largely useless because most of these treatments aren't needed, a properly installed DP/wood treatment will either work or not from the off, and if you need to claim, the company probably won't be around.

If you plan to sell within 16 years, it's probably worth it, maybe, possibly.

TheCyclingProgrammer

The previous owners have already been stitched up by the DPC cowboys, I wouldn't waste your money!

macman

What would there be for the buyer to pick up on? Unless here is visible evidence of damp, no one is going to ask for a DPC warranty. And if there is a warranty and damp, they'll wonder why you haven't claimed on it and resolved the issue.
You are not obliged to provide any kind of warranties or certification when you sell a house. If you do, it may be a minor bonus to some buyers.