Slight damages to a flat: what to do before purchase?

gcpbuyer

Hi there
I'm buying and property and recently inspected it before the exchange happens. The previous tenants did the following:

• Kitchen worktop is burned and scratched

• Kitchen splashback has it's veneer peeling off due to water damage

• Broken cupboard door

Generally minor issues, but should I ask to have these fixed before I exchange and buy? 
Thanks

[Deleted User]

gcpbuyer said:

Hi there
I'm buying and property and recently inspected it before the exchange happens. The previous tenants did the following:

• Kitchen worktop is burned and scratched

• Kitchen splashback has it's veneer peeling off due to water damage

• Broken cupboard door

Generally minor issues, but should I ask to have these fixed before I exchange and buy? 
Thanks

You can ask but I think it's unlikely the vendor will replace the kitchen worktop or splash back. 

AdrianC

Of course you can ask...

If they say no, what will you do?

Justonemorecupoftea

I'm assuming this is damage since you first viewed the house, not stuff you've only just spotted?

Even if it's new damage, it's not really worth it to make them sort it. It will hold up the sale massively and they have no incentive to do a good job or anything to your taste. You might be able to see if they'll chuck you a couple of hundred quid to sort it when you complete, but I wouldn't hold your breath.

Jeepers_Creepers

Assuming that this damage all occurred between your viewing/offer and recent inspection, and assuming the LL is also aware of this damage, wouldn't the LL be entitled to recoup this from the tenant's deposit, and either repair or pass on to you?

Have the tenants left? Is the LL aware of the damage, possibly kept monies back from their deposit, and is keeping quiet about it?!