3mm crack prospective property

moneyspending

There is a 3mm crack running between first floor window and top of ground floor door. I can’t see crack going into foundations.

But to make sure it is not something big the surveyor is suggesting that seller should contact their insurance and get it checked.

This insurance can be transferred to us once sale complete.

Anyone has any experience doing same please?

moneyspending

https://ibb.co/QCswS39

moneyspending

hazyjo

Surprised they didn't tell you to get a structural engineer to look at it.

moneyspending

I could get a structural engineer but he won’t be able to say much without first digging holes in foundation. Whatever they can say would be speculated.

jimbog

Surely it is just best to walk away from this property? What is the appeal?

edgex

Cracked the bricks, not good!
Possibly failed/missing/inadequate lintel.

FreeBear

hazyjo wrote: »

Surprised they didn't tell you to get a structural engineer to look at it.

Indeed. That is a serious crack going through bricks as well as the mortar joints. I suspect it is also visible from inside. As to the cause, I'll take a stab...

It appears to be a solid brick wall construction (Victorian perhaps), with replacement uPVC doors and windows. At a guess, I would speculate that the installers removed timbers across the doorway and failed to fit an appropriate lintel. As a result, the brickwork has started to drop, putting pressure on the uPVC door/window. Is the door sticking or difficult to open ?

m0bov

Is that at the corner of the property? Any big tress (or stumps) near it? Drains? I'd jump in the car and drive for the hills, really not worth it unless its cheap and you know a good builder.

moneyspending

Yes the crack is clearly visible from inside. My thoughts are related to new double glazed door as well.

Yes I can still walk away but if sellers insurers can confirm no foundation issue than it might be ok.

It is good size property, close to station and at a reasonable price.

Doozergirl

If you involve the insurers then you'll have issues with getting cover, or at least with premiums moving forward.

If it's a Victorian house then it won't have any foundations, so that's not exactly worth checking.

I too would put money on a failed or no longer existent lintel. Cracks point to the cause and start at weak points above, ie. openings. That's pointing straight to the door. I'm a little surprised that the bricks have cracked through, though, as my general observation has been that the mortar joints open up.

Unless you render the house, there's going to be evidence of movement on the front that will raise questions, regardless of the cause.