| BUILDING SURVEYS and
VALUATIONS
FIRST, A MINING SEARCH
Parts of Cornwall were intensively mined and there may be adverse mining features. Ask us for a map of areas where a search should be carried out. If your property is near a mining area, we will order the report and advise on its findings. The vast majority of homes are safe from mining subsidence, even in known mining areas.
SECONDLY, A CONCRETE SCREEN TEST
Briefly, some concrete that was made in Cornwall and parts of Devon, up to about 1950, may contain harmful minerals that react and can cause the concrete to crumble. The only certain way to determine the presence of such minerals is to take samples for examination under a microscope. Lenders, whether Bank or Building Society, require such tests before granting a mortgage. It is essential that the concrete is tested before a purchaser signs the contract. We supervise the taking of samples, examine the building for signs of such deterioration and report.
THEN, IF BOTH ARE CLEAR, HAVE A SURVEY OF THE BUILDING ITSELF
either a VISUAL BUILDING SURVEY (formerly called a structural survey)
These are recommended for the larger, older or non-standard buildings and those of a commercial nature but are often used for any property. It is a detailed investigation and assessment of the construction and condition of a building. The inspection covers those parts of the structure that are readily visible, including the fabric, finishes, grounds and outbuildings.. A specialist investigation may be advised where there is concern over specific parts of the property or defects in it, such as the detailed study of movement, cracking, bulging, timber decay, damp or the testing of wiring, heating, drainage. Services are not normally exposed or tested but if we consider there is a need for investigation by an experienced, qualified specialist, then we will recommend this Remedial measures may be needed on visible defects and on maintenance, so advice is given that is easy to follow.
or the RICS HOMEBUYER SERVICE
This is recommended for residential buildings up to 185 m2 (2,000 ft2), not more than three storeys high and post-1919. We report on the general state of repair and condition of the property and provide a realistic valuation. The standard format report is easy to follow and concentrates on major defects only. The valuation makes this especially useful to homebuyers needing reassurance that a fair price is being paid.
VALUATIONS
Valuations are completed for Banks, Building Societies, individuals or Companies for all purposes including insurance, matrimonial and probate.
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