Hugh James Surveyors Ltd

We advised the client the report will be delivered between 7 to 10 working days from inspection. Inspection was carried out on the 13 May and delivered on the 8 working day within the timeframe stipulated. The Homebuyers Report template has a traffic light system, Green (no repair needed) Amber (defects not considered to be serious) and Red ( defects of serious concern). The majority of the condition rating in this property was rating 2, due to the fact that the relevant elements was not free of defect such as soiled floor covering. It is imperative that the report reflects the condition of the property to enable the client to be well informed on the condition of the property and cost implications prior to commitment.

The client arranged to meet us on site during the inspection, we pointed out our concerns regarding structural damage noted to the property below the damp proof course and close to a drainage outlet. The client was not aware of the external crack we showed them on site and due to the location of the damage coupled with the sunken and uneven pavers, we considered it prudent and recommended for the client to arrange for an intrusive and independent CCTV (Close Circuit Television) drainage survey to be carried out as a precautionary measure to establish the condition of concealed drainage pipes. This was considered necessary in addition to our initial check of the visible inspection chambers. The client asked the question of cost for such survey and we pointed out such survey is beyond our level of expertise, however, anticipated to be in the region of £500. The CCTV drainage survey will highlight any potential issues which can have potential cost implications. At no point did we allude that we would require an additional fee for another site visit. We subsequently discussed this point with the client, they agreed the statement of £500 in their review was a misunderstanding. We subsequently mentioned to the client that we maintained our recommendations for further action to be implemented prior to committing to purchase. The reason why we held onto the agent’s keys was because the survey was carried out close to the weekend and we pointed out to the client on site that we would have to return to the property to carry out additional checks to the concealed floor as a result of the structural damage. Keys were returned on the Monday. Regarding the delay of the report, the delivery of a Building Survey Report usually takes between 7 to 10 days depending upon the condition. However, with this property, the report took a bit longer than anticipated due to the condition of the property. We offered a part refund to the client due to the delay, which was accepted.