Is it worth me getting a buildings survey?

nimbo

I’ve been quoted about 700 for a full survey and see it as an investment. May save me thousands in the long term. 

Weathergirl_76

I think for a property of that age, I would personally have one, just to make sure there is nothing that you can’t see that a surveyor would notice. It sounds like you know how to interpret the report as to what’s standard on there and what isn’t. So if anything is noticed, you can get your builder to take a look and provide an estimate of cost. I agree that £1500 sounds a lot, so might be worth getting some more quotes for a survey. 

KiKi

Thank you all for your input. Sounds like buildings is the way to go, but I'll definitely shop around first from some of the quotes you've all had!

I'm moving on my own, and for things like this it's so helpful to get other perspectives when there's no-one else to share the stress! 

Toots0293

I’m in the process of buying a 1902 terraced house. I went for the homebuyers report (mainly because the surveyor suggested it over the full structural), that cost £510. On first reading I nearly had a heart attack, but actually after another read I realised it wasn’t too bad for a house of its age. The most significant defect in mine was damp (which was not evident to me, but I am no expert at all). But I’m glad I had the survey done for peace of mind more than anything. Good luck!  

KiKi

Yes, I think most people in Brighton get home buyers, despite the houses all being Victorian. It's just normal here for then to be that old! 

stuart45

The Regency houses look nice from the front, but at the back of the properties some of them are falling apart. I remember in the 80's when the Brunswick area was being turned from bedsit land into a load of 1 +2 bedroomed flats. 

Liberal

Just been in a similar position. Paid out 1100 for 27 page survey. Old House about 1820. First time buying old house. Survey showed up a number of issues but a lot of these were possible things with recommendation of getting a damp proof expert in, building contractor, roofer and electrician. Would have been cheaper to just get a quote from all 4 and give them 150 each. BUT.....
I just think surveyors charge too much.