Flat purchase - to survey or not?

JuzaMum

I am buying a flat in a purpose built block. I have seen the flat, EPC and EIRC. Should I get a survey or not?

TBG01

If after moving in it turns out the flat is falling apart, who would you blame? Yourself, the estate agent, seller or the solicitor? If it's anything other than yourself, get one.

user1977

If you have to ask, then I presume you're not confident that you're capable of assessing the condition of the building yourself - so the answer is yes.

JuzaMum

I am happy with the flat and condition of the block. It seems well maintained. My OH thinks a survey would be wise but I wasn't going to bother.

Tiddleshalifax

I guess it depends on - age of the property, condition etc and overall feeling…. But I’d say if you have to ask you’re not sure and then I’d recommend one

jazzyja

I took my OH who works in construction to view a property..I thought it was stunning, no problems. He nicely pointed out the house had been slapped with a ton of anti damp paint and he spotted rising damp near the skirting boards. Things aren't always as they seem!! Survey is a must 

NameUnavailable

A survey on a flat is going to be full of caveats and advice to get further inspections carried out. Obviously the surveyor can't access the whole property, only the communal hall and 'your' flat.

You will get an opinion of the condition of the place which might be helpful when considering future maintenance costs.

Check the lease to see what you are liable for, i.e. are the windows your responsibility or the freeholders? Are they in good order or do they need replacing? (if it's the freeholders responsibility you still have to pay, but have no say in when the work gets done, or ultimately who does it).

Look at the consumer unit, general decor of the communal areas etc.