May 28th 2024.
When searching for a new property, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of envisioning yourself in your potential new home. But amidst all the anticipation, it's important not to overlook potential warning signs that could lead to costly repairs or a higher insurance premium. While surveyors are thorough in their evaluation of a property, there are some additional factors that you should keep an eye out for before making an offer. And even if you're renting, these tips from home insurance expert Anna Thunstrom at Saga can help you avoid any unpleasant surprises once you move in.
One crucial aspect to consider is the temperature changes between rooms. The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of a property can give you an idea of how energy efficient it is, with a higher rating indicating lower energy bills. So be sure to ask the owner or estate agent about this, as well as the type of glazing the windows have and whether the walls and roof are insulated. Poor insulation is a common issue that can result in temperature imbalances and higher energy bills, with poorly fitted windows being a growing problem in new builds. Pay attention to the temperature in each room and take note of any noticeable differences, as this could be a sign of insulation or heating and ventilation problems.
According to Anna, poor insulation can increase energy bills by up to £340 annually, while insulating the cavity walls could cost around £15 per square metre, adding up to £1,275 for a typical wall area of 85m2. And if you're looking to upgrade to double glazing, be prepared to spend anywhere between £450 and £1,200, depending on the size of the windows.
Another issue to be aware of is signs of mould and water damage. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also pose serious health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Erika Radford, head of health advice at Asthma and Lung UK, has highlighted the potential dangers of living with mould, as it can worsen symptoms and even lead to life-threatening asthma attacks. To avoid any health hazards, be sure to keep an eye out for mould and damp patches on the walls and ceilings, as well as musty odours, as these could be signs of water damage that will be costly to repair if left untreated. The average cost of mould removal per room is between £200 and £400, and up to £1,200 for the entire house.
While minor cracks under 0.5 millimetres in width are normal, larger cracks extending from windows, doorways, or corners could indicate a more serious issue with the property's foundations. This is known as subsidence, and it can be a costly problem to fix, with prices ranging from £6,000 to £14,000. While a surveyor will pick up on this, it's also a good idea to check for any sticking doors or gaps in door frames, as well as placing a small ball on the floor to see if it rolls in a certain direction, which could indicate sinking.
Don't forget to also take a look at the exterior of the property, particularly the garden. While gardening can be a therapeutic activity, it's important to ask the owner about any invasive plants, such as Japanese knotweed, bamboo, buddleia, and ivy, as they can be difficult to control and expensive to remove. In the case of Japanese knotweed, the cost of removal can range from £1,000 to £12,000, depending on the severity of the infestation. The government even has a dedicated page to help people combat this plant, as allowing it to spread into the wild can result in prosecution.
Moving indoors, be sure to check for trickling taps, as this could be a sign of limescale build-up. Not only is the sound annoying, but it can also lead to a huge waste of water and an extra £300 on your annual water bill. It's also worth noting how long it takes for hot water to reach the tap, as a blockage could delay the flow. If you need a plumber to fix these issues, be prepared to pay an average of £300 to £400 per day, plus any additional costs for parts.
Lastly, don't forget to examine the roof for any missing or loose tiles, as well as any debris on the ground. While a few missing tiles can be a relatively affordable fix, a whole new roof can cost between £5,000 and £8,000, depending on the type. And be sure to also check the gutters for any blockages or sagging, as this can cause leaks and lead to costly repairs. The average cost of replacing gutters is around £900, or £45 per metre.
In summary, by being aware of these common issues and asking the right questions, you could potentially save yourself thousands of pounds in the long run. So don't forget to thoroughly inspect the property and ask about these essential points before making an offer. After all, a little bit of caution now could save you a lot of trouble and expense in the future.
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