Ensuring work done on flat we're buying...

Hugbubble

Hi all

In middle of flat purchase. We went back for a third viewing/ measure up a couple of weeks ago, and noticed that since we made our offer (way back at beginning of Feb) there had obviously been a leak in flat above and our ceiling is water stained. Have spoken to the caretaker of the building who assures us the leak has been fixed (the ceiling was dry to touch also).

However, we have asked the vendor to paint the ceiling as condition of sale. He wants to get the work done between exchange and completion (if stagger them about 2 weeks apart) so that he has our committment that we will go through with the purchase. I can understand his position and don't have a problem with this as such, but how best can we ensure that the work is done to our satisfaction prior to completion? Can we get some kind of legally binding guarantee?

Any advice appreciated.
Ta very much

Doozergirl

It doesn't cost very much for some stain blocker and white paint. It doesn't *really* matter if he does it or not, does it?

I'd trust him to do it but not get too het up if he didn't. It doesn't reduce the value of the property.

Hugbubble

Thanks for your reply, Doozergirl.

It does matter to us though....the stain is over the living room and master bedroom. I don't fancy having to try paint double height ceilings (I'm a useless girl, I know) and don't see why I should pay to get it decorated....

I know it's not the end of the world or owt, though- I do realise that.

Doozergirl

You can ask the vendor to sign something but do you fancy suing him if he doesn't do it?

The best way would be for him to do it before you exchange so that you can view it before you commit.

PasturesNew

If I was the vendor I'd have had that painted within an hour of being on the phone. It's a specific, achievable piece of work to do and it is in his best interests to get it done.

It's not like you asked for a refitted bathroom or a rewire.

Painting that piece of ceiling doesn't cost more than £5 if he has to go and buy everything and if he loses the sale to you it'd still need doing for the next viewings/purchaser.

What an idiot.