Possibly Damp & asbestos! Should we proceed?

Angelboots

Hi guys,

I have just received my valaution back on the property we are going to buy. However there are parts on the valuation that im concerned about. Here are some of the parts that concerned me. (This is the valuation conducted by the mortgage company).

1) Elements of the property appear to be in poor condition due to age and type of construction

2) Evidence of movement was observed in the form of hairline cracks and slight distortion this is not thought to have structural significance.

3) The property has teatured coating to various internal surfaces which in a property of this age, could contain asbestos :eek:

What do i do now? shall i speak with the estate agents to get a damp and timber report and then do i find a provider that can check the asbetoes?

If anything flags up on either of the checks would it be worth me trying to negotiate the price?

Thanks

K

benood

By the sounds of things the valuation hasn't found any deal breaking points otherwise the value would have come in impaired.

Artex used to include asbestos - if you aren't getting rid of it you needn't be too concerned for your health, but it would be expensive to remove if asbestos - talk to the seller - if they "know nothing" then assume the worst. You can probably get Amity (asbestos specialists) to quote for asbestos removal FOC.

The points on condition are only stating what you've already seen yourselves I think. Worn out bathroom, kitchen?

Probably after talking to the venor I would commission a survey.

daveyjp

Best way to treat potential asbestos in artex is to plaster over it. Just be careful if you need to drill into the walls at anytime.

Jonbvn

Nothing of too much concern for an older property. Certainly, no "show stoppers".

What did the report say about damp?

Finally, a valuation report is primarily for the lender not you. I would recommend that you get a full survey done for yourself, which will be much more comprehensive. In my professional opinion (struct eng'r) this is essential for older properties, especially where some concerns have been raised.

Angelboots

Thanks guys,

Im going to arrange for a full survey to be done just for piece of mind. I have noticed that the ceilaings have those artex round decorations where the light fittings are. I definately want to replace those by plastering over them. Are ceilings normally made of asbestoes too?

The valuation has given some recommendations about a damp course, and having under ground ventilation etc, quoting £2k