Cracks in house we are purchasing

newton345

Hi everyone, in the midst of buying a house offer accepted, mortgage applied for and surveyor booked. On another viewing noticed some cracks in bedroom ceiling (both bedrooms) but one hairline crack has definitely appeared since first viewing. Also the house is always cold and noticed the seller left all the windows in the house open (on both viewings despite cold and wet weather). noticed the attic has plaster boards up, but seller stated he didn't know anything about the history or what has been done to the attic previuusly. Starting to have misgivings, would appreciate your opinions. 

RS2OOO

I'd just ask the surveyor to pay attention to the cracks and advise what his/her thoughts are as to what may have caused them.

Windows open could mean anything and might be completely innocent such as the vendors trying to freshen the place up for viewings etc.

If you noticed black mold in the double glazing window shuts that might be indicative of the windows not normally being opened.

I've never personally found any major cause for hairline cracks in ceilings beyond water damage. Of more concern would be when there's gaps appearing between the ceiling and the wall.

Slithery

Wait for the survey results.

user1977

RS2OOO said:

Windows open could mean anything and might be completely innocent such as the vendors trying to freshen the place up for viewings etc.

Or enhancing the ventilation for Covid-safe viewings.

Norman_Castle

I normally have a few windows open all day throughout most of the year. Some would consider it cold but I prefer the fresh air.

Bedroom ceiling cracks could be from moving about in the loft. Is it being emptied prior to moving?

newton345

Hi thanks for all your replies. There was cracks on the first viewing but there were more on the second viewing 2 weeks later, my partner thinks the issue is the attic as it is above the bedrooms and the owner has recent put up plaster boards and doesn't know if it's insulated or not...

NameUnavailable

Did you take photos of the ceilings on the first viewing? I suspect you just noticed more on the second viewing (that's the point of second viewings IMHO to spot things you didn't notice first time).

Cracks aren't usually a problem unless you can fit your hand in the gap. Whatever, you need to see what the surveyor says.

Windows open? Covid advice is to allow plenty of fresh air if letting visitors into your home. Maybe they smoke? Maybe there's damp (damp smell) but again the survey will pick that up.