What Are the Most Common Hidden Defects in a House?
A lot of serious defects in a property might not be visible during a viewing, especially if an estate agent is whisking you around quickly hoping you might not notice! On top of that, the property might have been recently decorated and furniture carefully placed to hide potential problems. Some of the more common issues we see after a house purchase include:
Damp and moisture problems
Not just a bit of condensation. More like damp ingress and hidden leaks behind the walls or under the floors. Unfortunately, these might be hidden with fresh paint, new plaster or recently replaced skirting boards, so you might not notice the signs until it’s too late.
Roof defects
Loose tiles, failing felt, blocked valleys or damaged roof structures might be very difficult to see from ground level. Standing below, the roof might look fine, but even the most minor defects can lead to water ingress and expensive repairs. This is one of the reasons getting a professional survey done is so important.
Structural movement
If you spot cracks in the walls and finishes, this could indicate ongoing structural movement in the property. A lot of buyers assume these cracks are cosmetic, and sometimes they are. But they can also be much more sinister. If they are, the current owners might try to hide them with furniture, curtains or plants if they’re on the outside.
Timber issues
Things like rot or beetle infestation in roof timbers or floor joists might not be visible without lifting access hatches or floorboards. Something most buyers either won’t or can’t investigate.
Drainage problems
Blocked, collapsed or incorrectly altered drains are particularly common in older properties, or those that have been extended. How many buyers will lift the drain covers, or test the operation of the building services?
Poor or non-compliant alterations
Loft conversions, removed walls, or extensions completed without building regulations approval can impact not only the safety of the property, but insurance and resale value.
How Does a Surveyor Spot Hidden Property Defects?
While buyers have limited knowledge and power to check the details of a property, surveyors are in a much stronger position. Since the surveyor is working for the buyer (and not the lender, seller or estate agent), we can take as much time as we need to inspect the property. We also have the benefit of years of training and experience inspecting a large number of properties, which means we know the important areas to check and what warning signs to look for. So we usually have a good idea of what lies underneath. We’re also kitted out with specialist equipment like electric moisture meters, which help us identify issues and figure out the causes.
A good surveyor will inspect all accessible parts of the property, including:
• Roof spaces
• External walls
• Floors
• Ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Building services
• Drainage points
We also understand how different buildings perform and age, which means we can tell the difference between harmless age-related wear and defects that will get worse and cost serious money.
When Should You Appoint a Surveyor Before Buying a House?
The ideal time to appoint a surveyor is after you put in and offer and have it accepted, but before you exchange the contracts. Lenders will often insist on a mortgage valuation, which is good for them, but not of much use for you. If you want a report that’s designed to tell you everything about the house, prepare you for any repairs that might be needed in the short and long term, and even give you a bargaining chip to reduce the price of the property, then you need a surveyor. Most modern buildings will be fine with an RICS Level 2 Survey (previously known as a HomeBuyer Report), while older, unusual or extended buildings will benefit from a full Level 3 building survey.
Speak to Harrison Clarke Before You Buy Your Next Home
If you’re about to buy a property and need some advice or support, the team at Harrison Clarke are always here to help. Our team of expert chartered surveyors can talk you through what each type of survey includes, and help you decide which would be best for your situation. Because we want to make sure that before you commit hundreds of thousands of pounds to a property purchase, you know exactly what it is you’re really buying.
Need a Property Survey Before You Buy?
Buying a property is a major investment, and identifying hidden defects before you exchange contracts can save you significant time, money and stress.
If you’re purchasing a property and would like expert advice, Harrison Clarke’s Chartered Surveyors are here to help. We can recommend the right survey for your property and explain exactly what it includes.
Get in touch today:
Southampton: 023 8155 0051
London: 020 8153 1233
Or visit our contact page to speak with one of our specialists:
Contact Harrison Clarke
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Defects.
What hidden defects should home buyers look for?
Common hidden defects include damp and moisture problems, roof defects, structural movement, timber issues, drainage problems and poor or non-compliant alterations.
Does a house survey check for hidden defects?
Yes. A surveyor inspects accessible parts of the property and looks for warning signs that may indicate hidden defects.
When should you arrange a property survey?
The ideal time is after your offer has been accepted but before contracts are exchanged.
What does a surveyor inspect during a property survey?
A surveyor inspects accessible roof spaces, external walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, building services and drainage points.
Which survey is suitable for most modern homes?
According to the article, most modern buildings will be suitable for an RICS Level 2 Survey, while older, unusual or extended properties may benefit from a Level 3 building survey.
For more expert advice on surveying and property matters, check out our range of informative videos on our website or YouTube channel. Harrison Clarke Chartered Surveyors is here to guide you every step of the way!
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