Damp Found on Homebuyers Survey? This Is What To Do

Investing in a property can be stressful enough without damp issues adding to your worries. There are offers to make, surveys to arrange, documents to read over, and a lot of money at stake. The last thing you probably needed to hear was that there was damp found on your homebuyers survey. Right now, you’re probably wondering what to do next, which is where we can offer some guidance. Here is your action plan.

1. Commission an Independent Damp Survey

Damp doesn’t just take one form. There are several types that are caused by different things, which means they have different solutions too. While homebuyers surveys will note that there is damp in the property, they don’t always document the type or cause, which is why ordering an independent damp survey is a crucial first step. A damp specialist can inspect the property more thoroughly and understand the type, cause, and severity of the problem.

2. Choose a PCA Independent Damp Surveyor

Ideally, your survey should be done by a PCA independent damp surveyor. An independent surveyor is one who doesn’t sell damp treatments or work for a company that does. They’ve got no incentive to make problems sound bigger than they are or to recommend particular solutions. The Property Care Association, or PCA, is an organisation that accredits surveyors who meet high professional standards. PCA membership helps ensure you’re dealing with someone qualified and credible.

3. Review Repair Suggestions and Cost Estimates

Along with the diagnosis and details of the property’s damp problem, the independent surveyor’s report will also include some suggestions for how to fix it. You can then contact reputable contractors and get estimates for the work. Once you have an idea of the additional costs, you’ll be able to plan your finances and proceed to the next step.

4. Negotiate With the Seller

Damp found on your homebuyers survey or during a pre-purchase damp survey shouldn’t be your mess to clear up. That’s why your next move should be to negotiate. You can either ask the seller to organise the remedial work before the sale is completed, or you can arrange it yourself but ask for the property price to be reduced. With an independent report highlighting the issues, you’re in a strong position.

5. Decide Whether to Proceed With the Sale

By this stage, you know what damp problems the property has. You know how much they’ll cost to repair and what the seller proposes to do about them. At this point, it’s up to you to decide whether the property remains viable. If the problem is small or you reach an agreement with the seller, you can proceed confidently, knowing that you’ve covered all bases. Otherwise, you can walk away and avoid inheriting major problems.

Conclusion

Damp found on your homebuyers survey doesn’t need to spell the end of your property-ownership dream. With the right plan of action, it’s just a minor bump in the road. To speak with an independent damp surveyor today, call London Damp Specialists on 020 7523 5882.