About 10 years ago, there was a TV documentary about surveyors. Cameras were hidden in test houses and unsuspecting surveyors were invited in to provide reports on the state of the building. I have no doubt that some surveyors spent a lot of time in the property but a few didn’t. Naturally enough the TV Company had a great deal … Read More
A few reasons why you should be optimistic about Britain’s Housing Market
Britain’s property market has done well recently, despite early predictions of a late summer lull. It is welcome news that can be analysed in three parts: House prices in England and Wales rose by an average of 1.3% in July according to Land Registry figures, the biggest monthly increase since January 2010. The South West benefited in particular, with prices … Read More
Home Condition Survey
The Home Condition Survey (HCS) is a survey and report designed specifically for the home buyer. It has standard terms of engagement and a standard format. A Home Condition Survey is a comprehensive report looking at the issues that will affect your decision to purchase, or the price you might pay. Which? And the Council of Mortgage Lenders both recommend … Read More
Commercial Energy Assessments
If a Commercial building is sold or let, it is a legal requirement to provide a the new owner / lessee with a Commerical EPC. The assesment is completely different to a Domestic Energy Assessment. A Commercial Engery Assessment can only be carried out by an accredited Commercial Energy Assessor (also referred to as CEA or and NDEA) The approved … Read More
Schedule of Condition Surveys
When Are They Required? A schedule of condition survey is generally required before the signing of a lease. The survey will determine the condition of the building so that any existing defects can be identified prior to any commitment being made. Schedule of Condition Surveys take the form of text and photographic evidence. What Is Mentioned? The schedule of condition … Read More
Home Condition Survey
Mortgage Valuations are not the same as surveys. A Home Condition Survey will give you a clear and concise “snap shot” of the condition of your potential purchase on the date of inspection. This is your report, prepared independently for you and not your Lender. The Home Condition Survey is a report that includes an inspection of your home, and there is … Read More
Words to fear when buying a house
Words to fear when buying a house We’ll carry out a level one survey, sir What they mean is that they will prepare a mortgage valuation and will probably be in the house for approximately 20 minutes. If you are lucky, the valuer will point out obvious defects. If you want to be safe, you should commission your own surveyor to carry … Read More
Free QSI Membership
FREE QSi membership! The QSi is pleased to offer 1 year’s free membership to eligible attendees at the October conference. 4th October 2011 – London Cost £150 + VAT. (CIOB, RICS, ABE, APM welcome) Full day conference – 7 hours CPD To find out more about the conference visit www.theqsi.co.uk/seminars.asp The conference will be held on 4 October in London … Read More
Thinking of Building an extension on your house?
Thinking of Building an extension on your house? Thinking of building a large supermarket? Whatever you are building – Don’t forget the Party Wall etc Act 1966. Just because you have obtained Planning Permission and Building Control approval for your project does not remove the need to comply with the Party Wall Act where it is applicable. The Party Wall … Read More