When Should You Get a Structural Survey?

It goes without saying that there’s a certain level of uncertainty involved with purchasing a new house. When it comes to investing in properties that require renovations or were built in a different century, the risks are even further pronounced. What can you do to ensure your prospective property is a worthy investment and won’t cost you hundreds of thousands of pounds in unexpected repairs further down the track?

The answer lies in structural surveys. Here at Simon Levy, our team of expert structural surveyors are able to carry out comprehensive evaluations that can reveal the potential defects in a building. Equipped with this information, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate or make a more informed decision when the time comes to purchase the property. Here are three situations where it is vital to invest in a structural survey.

You’re Purchasing an Old or Unusually Constructed Property

Many UK homes date back decades or even centuries. While this lends an inimitable sense of history and timeless style to these properties, it also means they come with an inherent level of risk due to the fact that the building materials may have degraded over time, or environmental factors might have weakened the structure of the house. To the untrained eye, it’s next to impossible to identify these hidden flaws, and other types of pre-purchase surveys simply aren’t comprehensive enough to provide the level of insight you need. Investing in a full structural survey is the best way to learn about the condition of an old or unusually constructed property before you purchase it.

You’re Buying a Dilapidated Home

Another perfect example of when it’s a good idea to commission structural surveying is if you’re intentionally purchasing a dilapidated home. Many people in the UK keep an eye on the real estate market for somewhat shabby properties with the aim of getting a bargain and a great return on their investment. If you’re hoping to score a bargain by buying a rundown home, it’s imperative that you get a quality structural survey to ensure you have a 360 degree perspective of what you’re getting yourself into.

You’re Planning on Carrying Out Extensive Renovations on the Property

Last but not least, you should also consider enlisting the services of a professional structural surveyor if you’re planning on carrying out extensive renovations on the property. Depending on the scope of the project, large building works may involve a plethora of hidden expenses that go well beyond the cost of the superficial renovation. For example, extending your home may require you to reinforce the structure of the building or invest in expensive groundworks, both of which would have a significant impact on the overall cost of the build. Getting a structural survey can help you identify these issues ahead of time and allow you to budget accordingly.

Planning on purchasing a new home in the near future? Give yourself the ultimate peace of mind by investing in a full structural survey. Contact us today on 020 8207 6100 to find out more.