In the spirit of the festive season, we have compiled a list of 12 common issues found during home surveys, each with its own Christmas-themed twist! From structural problems to hidden fire hazards, our surveyors have seen it all. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa and join us as we take a stroll through the winter wonderland of building surveying.
Day 1: Damaged roof
On the first day of building surveying, our surveyor found a leaky roof. Just like Santa’s sleigh, roofs need care and attention to ensure they can withstand the elements. If you notice leaks or signs of damage, it’s important to have a professional inspection to identify the root cause and find a solution before it becomes a bigger problem.
Day 2: Woodworm
On the second day, our surveyor encountered woodworm. Predominantly occurring in older properties, signs of woodworm include holes and tunnels in wood. If caught early enough, woodworm can be relatively easy to treat. However, if left for many years, the damage can be severe and replacement of joists and floorboards may be necessary.
Day 3: Damp and mould
On the third day, our surveyor discovered mould lurking in the attic. Just like a soggy Christmas turkey, mould can cause health issues and damage the structure of the property. Regular inspections and proactive measures, such as ventilation and insulation, can help eliminate these issues before they spread.
Day 4: Wall cracks
On the fourth day of building surveying, our surveyor found wall cracks. Just like a broken bauble, these cracks can compromise the stability and structural integrity of the property. Whilst small cracks are to be expected, larger cracks can be indicative of more significant problems. Professional inspection and timely repairs are essential to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the building.
Day 5: Chimney issues
On the fifth day of building surveying, our surveyor discovered a damaged chimney. Weather damage to chimneys can result in brickwork, pointing, flashings, and flaunchings deteriorating over time. Santa’s annual visits perhaps do little to help the situation! This can lead to the chimney leaning to one side, which can further develop into the eventual collapse of the chimney.
Day 6: Blocked gutters
On the sixth day of building surveying, our surveyor encountered gutters blocked with debris. Overflowing gutters or downpipes can create water damage and leaks if left unaddressed. Clearing gutters or installing gutter guards can help keep water drainage working properly, preventing leaks and further damage.
Day 7: New build snags
On the seventh day of building surveying, our surveyor visited a new build property that was bought off plan. Whilst a new build might appear to be a good option, you need to undo the wrapping and be sure to double-check the contents! Covering both internal and external aspects of the property, a snagging survey aims to identify issues with the quality and finish of the build so the developer can take measures to resolve any defects.
Day 8: Subsidence
On the eighth day of building surveying, our surveyor identified structural concerns. Just like a sagging Christmas tree, structural issues can impact the overall stability and safety of the property. Professional inspection and repair are necessary to address any structural issues and ensure the building remains secure.
Day 9: Energy efficiency concerns
On the ninth day of building surveying, our surveyor encountered energy efficiency concerns. Just like a poorly wrapped present, drafty windows or inefficient heating systems can result in higher energy bills. Upgrading insulation, sealing leaks, and installing energy-efficient heating systems can require significant investment, which certainly needs to be considered before buying a property.
Day 10: Damp and condensation
On the tenth day of building surveying, our surveyor encountered damp and condensation problems. Proper ventilation and insulation can help eliminate these issues and improve indoor air quality. Condensation in windows can indicate that double glazing has deteriorated and windows may need to be replaced.
Day 11: Poorly completed renovations
On the eleventh day of building surveying, our surveyor noticed issues with an extension. Unfortunately, not all tradespeople offer high levels of integrity and shoddy workmanship can result in unsightly – and sometimes unsafe – building work. It’s also important to check that all the relevant paperwork is in place and that building regulations have been adhered to.
Day 12: Hidden Defects
On the final day of building surveying, our surveyor discovered hidden defects. Just like the damage caused by naughty elves, these defects can go unnoticed until the issues become significant. A professional inspection can identify hidden defects and provide necessary recommendations for repairs or renovations.
Whether you’re buying a home or already own a property, building surveys are essential to identify and address any potential issues. So, this festive season, remember to keep the spirit of building surveying alive and avoid any potential Christmas catastrophes.
