How soon can the HomeBuyer survey be done and how long does the Report take to send out?
 

During normal market activity levels, inspections can usually be arranged within a week or so, subject to suitable access being provided or holidays etc. A verbal summary is always provided shortly after the Survey, with the full Report being emailed and/or posted by the following week. However, during the recent free stamp duty period, survey inspection appointments have been fully booked for weeks in advance.
 

Can I cancel the survey at any time before the inspection?
 

Yes. Provided that we receive at least 24 hours notice, either verbally or electronically. The Consumer Credit Act now allows for a mandatory 14 day 'cooling off' period for the customer before deciding whether to proceed with a particular service. However, due to the usual time constraints of property transactions, if this service is already undertaken within this period then it is deemed to have been authorised by the customer. This is explained to the Client from the outset and also detailed in the Confirmation of Instructions Letter, with the Clients signing of this letter to be taken as waiving this right.
 

Do I need to pay for the survey upfront?
 

Yes. This is explained from the outset and in our subsequent Confirmation of Instruction letter with our invoice enclosed. This can be paid either by BACS or cheque. The inspection will NOT proceed until your full payment has been received.
 

How extensive is the Homebuyer survey inspection?
 

The surveyor will comment upon the condition of all accessible parts of the property but it is a non-invasive inspection, unless the Vendors prior consent can otherwise be obtained. Therefore, the surveyor will not lift fitted floor coverings; move heavy furniture; remove fitted fixtures or finishes; unscrew any access hatches or coverings; or clear away excessive amounts of stored items. It is also not a full 'snagging list' of minor defects such as defective window handles, discoloured paint finishes, etc. However, the RICS state that a 'trail of suspicion rule' must be applied if the surveyor suspects that an inaccessible area may, more than likey, be concealing a hidden defect.
 

Are any of the services tested?
 

No. Surveyors are not qualified specialists but they will provide comment upon the likely age and compliance of the services or whether there are any visible signs of defects. If so, they will be given a Condition Rating 3 in the Homebuyer Report and referred to the relevant specialist (electrician, plumber, Gas Safe engineer, etc) to fully test and quote for any required repairs or upgrading works. It will also be flagged up in Section I - Legal Matters for your solicitors to confirm whether the services have the appropriate up-to-date guarantees and/or service certificates.
 

Can the Valuation figure quoted in the Homebuyer Report option be transferred to a mortgage Valuation Report for a Lender?
 

No. It is to be used for the private use of the Client buyer only - either for reference purposes or to renegotiate the agreed sale price, if so desired.
 

Can the Homebuyer Report be passed onto, or sold to, another buyer or third party?
 

No. The Report is accountable only to the Client who originally commissioned it. It can be referred to for specialists to verify recommended repairs, or to the selling agents if trying to get repairs undertaken or to renegotiate the agreed sale price; but no sections of the Report can be referred back to the Surveyor by any third parties. Do NOT forward it onto the selling agents or Vendor under any circumstances.
 

Is the surveyor suitably qualified and insured?
 

Yes. I have been a RICS qualified general practice & accredited valuation surveyor for over 20 years and have to adhere to their strict mandatory Red Book practices and Codes of Conduct. I undertake at least 20 hours of compulsory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training every year and also regularly consult with other fellow specialists surveyors in the local area. House 4 House Limited is regulated by the RICS and has its own Professional Indemnity Insurance policy providing adequate cover for ALL surveying work undertaken by the Firm.
 

Do House 4 House only undertake Homebuyer Reports?
 

No we can also provide RICS Red Book Valuation Reports for private clients for probate, taxation, Right To Buy, etc purposes. We do not however provide Valuation Reports for any mortgage lending institutions or bridging loan companies, etc. We also do not undertake the more detailed full structural Building Survey inspections but can refer your enquiry onto local Building Surveyors to provide a free no obligation quote, if the property requires a more detailed survey. This can be determined during the initial consultation.
 

For a free no obligation quote or to discuss any general property enquiries you may have, then please call me Mike Ashby direct on (0777) 333 8347 or email me at mike@house4houseltd.com