Buyer Damp Survey

loveka

We had a damp survey done on our own house recently, as it was showing signs of damp.

We got a full report, with a quote of how much the work would be to fix the problem. The survey was free, but he wasn't a cowboy. If you ask around, even your estate agent would know, you may be able to find a similar reputable company?

kirtsypoos

I agree Loveka, if there were signs of damp, I would get a quote from a company who could do the work, but as there are no signs of damp I think getting a company in who recommends work to be done and also provides that service will only cause problems.

Estate Agent has said they are unaware of any local companies of independent surveyors so it's back to the drawing board.

Hoploz

I'm wondering what has made the buyer want the damp survey in the first place. Have they had a survey which has brought something up? Did their mortgage offer state that it was subject to a damp survey being carried out? Is the house particularly old?

I was thinking that speaking to the surveyor might help find a damp surveyor - their firm might offer it? Do you think this is what the buyer has done, which might explain why they want a certain firm to do it?

kirtsypoos

They haven't had a full survey, only mortgage valuation which states due to the age of the property (1930) there may be a low damp course and advises a timber and damp report to check the property.

Fair enough, as this was present in our mortgage valuation also, but it now transpires that the reason she only wants this one company to carry it out is because they are the cheapest, and she refuses to look elsewhere as other quotes have been more expensive!

Out,_Vile_Jelly

I paid for an extra damp survey from an independent company following a scary survey on my first purchase; very quick turnaround with appointment and the report. It explained why houses of a certain type of construction give "damp" readings which aren't damp at all and was very reassuring. Since moving in the house is warm and well ventilated with no signs of damp.

As a FTB the survey often reads like you're buying an expensive rotting, asbestos-filled shack so a bit of panic is understandable.

The surveyor will not rip up carpet without the owner's permission, so don't worry about that.

kirtsypoos

Thanks OVJ.

This mornings decision is she has changed her mind and does want the survey so will try and find someone who can do it before 9th Dec, but won't commit to booking one. Meanwhile, I made one phone call to a local damp and timber surveyor who could fit the survey in on Tuesday.... not sure what to think at the moment.
The sales progression manager at the estate agents is acting like I am being a pain in the backside by asking her to have a survey arranged (not completed) before the end of the week. I don't think this is unreasonable!

Hoploz

No it isn't unreasonable at all. But what are you going to do if she doesn't?

kirtsypoos

Success, sort of!

Buyer was told it needed to be booked before Friday and has confirmed it is booked and confirmed for next Wednesday if not earlier if there is a cancellation. Bad news is she has booked a paid survey...but with rentokil! Who also install DPCs so concern is that it will come back with work that needs doing, even if it doesn't The cost of the survey is dedictuble from any work which is subsequently completed...

For now I'm just relieved that it is booked and will worry about what it says when it's actually done.