You may remember reading part 1 of our blog posts on viewing a property – part 2 lists some of the most important defects that you should look out for when visiting properties as well as potential ways to get the issues resolved:
Roof sagging – generally points to problems in the support of the property and not necessarily a serious problem. Ask questions (as best you can) about how long the sagging has been going on for and refer to a roofing specialist for an opinion if in doubt.
Hairline cracks over windows and doors – this is a very common default, particularly in older properties, and can often occur as a result of years of window and door movement (sorted by plastering).
Walls undulating (forming waves) – this generally means that the foundations are moving or have moved in the last few years. This can be a serious problem and, in recent years, has been particularly noted in badly engineered/designed new build properties.
Verticle cracks through brick work – again, a serious problem and it is advised that a structural property expert looks at the property before you commit.
Bowing of walls – the issue can be resolved by putting in metal bracing into the wall cavity (the default is usually due to a lack of lateral support).
Wooden floors sagging in the middle / corner(s) – usually due to improper placement or floorboards or rot (may have to be repaired or replaced).
Concrete floors sagging in middle / corner(s) – underfloor fill has been placed badly or become unsettled over time (may have to be repaired).
Underground drainage failed – very common with older properties, clay pipes around the property become damaged due load from above (by vehicles), ground movement and tree roots. May be the responsibility of your local council, depending on where the damage is.
Leaning Chimneys – very common, particularly in older properties – usually due to external water penetrating mortar and weakening.
Dampness at low levels – there are three main causes:
1) Lack of floor membrane so water is reaching the base of the wall through the floor;
2) No bridged cavity on the exterior of the building;
3) No Damp Proof Course (DPC). Indications of recent DPC activity include plugged round holes in the mortar joints at a low levels (where chemicals have been injected); markings at higher levels to indicate that foam insulation has been pumped into the cavity and felt coming out of the brickwork near the ground level (mortar can be chipped to check).
Dampness at high levels – there are three main causes:
1) Roof leaks;
2) Condensation;
3) water passing through non-cavity walls.
1-2mm woodworm – the earliest this is dealt with, the better as it could lead to severe timber damage. Look out for small holes with surrounding saw dust.
3-6mm wordworm – this is highly likely to be a serious issue and you should contact a woodworm specialist for further advice.
Dampness surrounding windows – caused by naturally cooler surfaces near windows – treated by changing seals on windows and/or removing humidity in the air (for example using a de-humifier). When using a company, remember to ensure that they are a member of the Property Care Association (formerly the British Wood Preserving & Damp Proofing Association).
Dry rot – another common occurence in older properties and evidenced by fungal growth – address the cause by ensuring the property is full ventilated by wall / eaves vents.
Spalling – occurs when water penetrates bricks, freezes in winter time and splits the face off them. The issue can be treated by stopping the leakage using a water repellent sealant.
Tags: refurbishment, viewing properties
[...] featured blog post on viewing a property – this edition focuses on plumbing (read part 1, part 2 and part 3 here) . A common issue that many landlords have to deal with, there are several [...]