for the property buyer
Survey Types
A typical pre-purchase survey includes a home's electrical,
plumbing and heating systems as well as its interior and exterior
construction from roof to foundation. But it does not include
the soil around the house, ponds, septic systems, building
code violations or environmental hazards, which can require
a specialized surveyor and can cost more.
Make certain that the survey contingency in your purchase
contract gives you ample time to conduct a general survey
and perform any specialized surveys that may be required.
Remember, repairs or remedies are negotiable and can reduce
the final price you pay for the house.
The most common surveys include:
Standard Pre-Purchase
This covers a home’s interior and exterior construction
and condition and includes electrical, plumbing and heating
systems. It can cost from £200 to £500 and is
usually paid for by the buyer.
Wood Damage
Is required by many lenders and includes all interior and
exterior wood structures of the home. It costs from £75
to £200 and payment is negotiable between the buyer
and seller.
Lead
All homes built before 1978 must disclose the presence
of any lead. The survey looks for the presence of lead in
paint, plumbing or other areas. It costs about £400.
Radon
If the seller is aware of elevated radon levels in the
house, they are required to tell the buyer. The inspection
looks for the presence of this naturally occurring radioactive
gas above certain levels. It costs approximately £150
and is negotiable between the buyer and seller.
Environmental Hazards
The surveyor looks for the presence of any substance (such
as: asbestos, formaldehyde, petroleum, toxic chemicals)
in building materials, soil, water or air that is a health
risk. The price varies with the exact type of inspection
and is negotiable between the buyer and seller.
Soil
The inspector examines the condition of soil under and
around foundation and retaining walls of the house looking
for problems like excessive moisture. It costs anywhere
from £300 to £2,000 and is negotiable between
the buyer and seller.
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