Do we need a survey?

lavster

Hello, I’m looking for some advice, we are in the process of buying a house that was built in 2015 and if all goes through the NHBC warranty will be transferred to us. We’ve only ever bought brand new builds in the past and not had surveys done. Just wondering what the general consensus is on this? If we do need one done, to what level is usually advised?

AdrianC

Your lender, if you need a mortgage, will certainly want a valuation survey.

Whether you have more than that is entirely up to you, your appetite for risk, and your ability to look at a property and notice potential issues.

DrSpendLittle

Are you sure the existing owners have done nothing to invalidate the NHBC warranty - worth getting your solicitor to enquire about that at the very least. I'd do a homebuyers report just to alleviate any worries.

davidmcn

Bear in mind that the NHBC warranty only covers relatively serious defects (and sometimes involves a bit of a fight to get claims accepted), so you might prefer to check there's nothing obviously wrong rather than just cross your fingers.

lavster

Thanks everyone for the responses, yes we've read a bit a few horror stories about NHBC claims. The house looked great to me but then im really no expert, i've been to others where i can clearly see signs of issues. I'll speak to the solicitor today and see what they can reccomend.