Drainage flagged on Survey Report - Do we need a Drainage survey?

Charcoal24

Hello,

We are First time buyers and just had a survey done on a house built in 2016. The surveyor has mainly only flagged one problem and that's the drainage.

Below is what is in the report:

"Drainage [CONDITION]: We found a buildup of waste in the drainage to the front. This is an
indication that there could be a defect within the drainage system. Defective drainage can cause
movement to buildings by softening the substrata beneath the foundations. You should therefore
have the drainage tested by means of a pressure test, possibly followed by a CCTV inspection. A
CCTV inspection alone will not confirm whether or not the drainage is leaking."

Is anyone able to confirm if this is likely a problem or if the surveyor is mainly just covering themselves?

If this is a problem, any indication of the next best steps and the costs to do the tests and the fix?

Would we (as the buyer) be the ones to pay for all this or is there a way to ask the seller?

Any suggestions and insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

incus432

I would definitely have it done.  The cost of a test/CCTV should not be much and it may save you manby (even 10s of ) thousands.  This could lead to subsidence. If there is a problem you can demand a reduction for the cost of putting it right or walk away.

PS - is the house covered by the 10 year new build guarantee?

Charcoal24

incus432 said:

I would definitely have it done.  The cost of a test/CCTV should not be much and it may save you manby (even 10s of ) thousands.  This could lead to subsidence. If there is a problem you can demand a reduction for the cost of putting it right or walk away.

PS - is the house covered by the 10 year new build guarantee?

Thank you for the advice. I will look into arranging a drainage test/CCTV. 

Yes the house should just about still be covered by the 10 year new build gaurantee. Would that help in covering any costs?

youth_leader

I agree that I would pay for the drainage report, and I would forward the small extract you have written above to the EA.  If there are major problems, you might be able to negotiate a reduction in price.  

I have just realised I should have asked if you are England?    This article might be of use.  Who is responsible for repairing drains and sewers - Citizens Advice

incus432

Charcoal24 said:

Thank you for the advice. I will look into arranging a drainage test/CCTV. 

Yes the house should just about still be covered by the 10 year new build gaurantee. Would that help in covering any costs?

Repair costs over the excess should be covered if they are required I think.  Maybe not the test

https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-buying/new-home-warranties-cover/