HomeKeylocks undertake surveys on all types of property from New Build to 17th Century and earlier houses. Should a buyer request a survey on your property, this guide is designed to help improve the results of the survey, and as a consequence allow the buyer to move to the next stage of the process.
Hopefully this will speed up the selling process and cut out the need for negotiations on defects or lack of information.
Information
Surveyors like to see any documents that show that the property and the services have been maintained. Most of these will in any case be required by our solicitor.
Electrical Certificates – You should have an electrical inspection certificate to show that the installation has been maintained and is safe. This should be 12 months or less from the survey. Any alterations such as outside supplies to outbuildings that have been put in should have a certificate of installation. Make sure the fixings are secure, no lose or broken sockets or switches. Have certificates for new consumer units etc to hand. Any work should also have Building Regulation Approval.
Gas Certificates – the same applies, in that you should have a service record for a boiler that has been undertaken within the last 12 months. If a new boiler has been installed there should be Building Regulation Approval. A certificate saves time and improves the survey result.
Service Contacts – these are relevant especially for items such as unvented hot water cylinders.
Guarantees – if any new appliances or services have been introduced, and it is appropriate, a guarantee or warranty should be available. This gives a buyer confidence and the impression that the property has been well maintained.
Alterations – It is an advantage to produce details of any alterations including if appropriate a Building Regulation Completion certificate or Planning Permission details with certificate. Certain councils allow on-line access but it is an advantage if you have these to hand as your solicitor will also need them.
Building Regulations apply for windows and doors (FENSA), wood burning stoves (HETAS), electrical alterations, alterations to stairs or load bearing walls and a variety of other matters. Alterations to integral garages making them habitable are subject to Building Regulations and lack of approval can affect the value of the property.
Maintenance – many items are commonly overlooked and some can dramatically affect the survey. Gutters and downpipes – make sure they are cleaned out, secure and drains are not blocked. Roof – maintain the roof covering to avoid leaks, especially at junctions between chimney/roof or lean-to structures. Chimneys – covers on chimney posts prevent birds nests etc,.
Access – if your property is going to be surveyed access will be need to the roof space (if appropriate) electrical supply, gas supply and main drains.
You may consider commissioning a survey as a seller, which may serve to speed up the conveyancing process, in which case we would be pleased to advise.