RICS Condition Ratings Explained

RICS condition ratings are used in the HomeBuyer Report and Condition Report to categorise the state of different elements of a property. The ratings are color-coded for a quick visual review and range from 1 to 3:

Rating 1 (Green) – No Repair Needed

A green rating indicates good condition, with no significant defects or maintenance issues. This is the ideal rating you want to see, as it means the property is well-maintained and no immediate action is required. For example, if the roof of a property receives a rating of 1, it means the roof is in good shape with no signs of wear or damage.

Rating 2 (Amber) – Defects Present but Not Urgent

An amber rating means that while there are some defects, they are not serious or urgent. However, these issues will need attention in the future to prevent them from becoming more severe. For example, if the windows are rated 2, it may indicate that they are starting to show signs of wear, such as minor draughts or aging seals, but are still functional. These should be monitored and repaired as part of ongoing maintenance.

Rating 3 (Red) – Serious Defects Needing Immediate Attention

A red rating is the most serious and indicates that there are significant defects that require immediate repair or replacement. Ignoring these issues could lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs. For example, if the property’s electrical system receives a rating of 3, it might mean that it’s outdated or unsafe, requiring urgent attention to ensure the safety of the occupants.

Why Understanding These Ratings is Important

By understanding these condition ratings, you can better assess the true condition of a property and factor in potential repair costs when deciding whether to proceed with the purchase.  At West Country Surveyors, our RICS-compliant home surveys provide a detailed breakdown of these ratings, we will also talk you through any serious defects that we find, helping you make an informed decision on your purchase.

Contact Us

If you’re considering purchasing a property in Somerset, Devon, Dorset, or Bristol, let West Country Surveyors assist you with a comprehensive RICS HomeBuyer Report, Condition Report or even a listed building survey. Our experienced surveyors will provide clear, detailed insights into the condition of your potential new home.

Contact West Country Surveyors today to learn more, visit our website or give us a call at 01823 429823. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your new property.

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What is Snagging?

Snagging is the process of thoroughly inspecting a new build property to identify any defects or unfinished work. These snags can range from cosmetic issues, such as paint splatters or uneven plastering, to more significant problems like faulty wiring, plumbing issues, or structural defects. A professional snagging survey ensures that all issues are identified and rectified before you move in.

NHQB Standards

The New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) sets the standards that new homes must meet to ensure quality and safety. When purchasing a new build, it’s crucial to ensure that the property meets these standards. Our snagging services are designed to align with NHQB requirements, ensuring that your new home adheres to the latest regulations and quality benchmarks.

Why Use a Professional Snagging Service?

1. Expert Eye for Detail

While you might notice a few imperfections during your final inspection, a professional surveyor is trained to spot even the smallest of snags that could cause problems down the line. For example, a Surveyor snagging in Taunton may identify hidden issues with insulation or ventilation that could affect your home’s energy efficiency.

2. Comprehensive Report

A professional snagging survey provides you with a detailed report outlining all identified snags. This report serves as a formal document that you can present to your developer, ensuring they are legally obligated to address these issues. Whether you’re in Chard, Honiton, or any part of Devon, including Plymouth, Exeter, or Tiverton, our team will provide a thorough assessment.

3. Save Time and Money

Addressing snags before you move in can save you time and money in the long run. Fixing issues early means you won’t have to deal with disruptions later, such as organizing repairs or dealing with warranty claims. For instance, a snag identified in a Surveyor snagging in Exeter might prevent costly water damage caused by an improperly sealed window.

4. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your new home has been professionally inspected gives you peace of mind. You can move in with confidence, assured that your property meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

How West Country Surveyors Can Help

At West Country Surveyors, we specialise in providing professional snagging services for new build properties across the West Country. Our experienced team of Chartered Surveyors is dedicated to ensuring your home is perfect before you move in. We offer snagging services tailored to meet the needs of homeowners in Taunton, Chard, Honiton, and throughout Devon, including Plymouth, Exeter, and Tiverton.

If you’re purchasing a new build property, don’t leave anything to chance Contact us today to arrange a professional snagging survey and ensure your new home is up to standard. Visit our website at www.westcountrysurveyors.co.uk or call us at 01823 429823 for more information.

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When buying or selling a property, one important document that makes part of your report is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC provides a snapshot of a property’s energy efficiency, helping you understand how much it will cost to heat and power your home, as well as its environmental impact. At West Country Surveyors, we help our clients understand this report, ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions. Here’s a quick guide on how to read and interpret an EPC certificate.

By understanding your EPC certificate, you can take control of your property’s energy efficiency, save on energy bills, and can reduce your environmental impact.

Contact West Country Surveyors today to learn more, visit our website or give us a call at 01823 429823. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your new property.

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Pre-Purchase Home Surveys: Know Before You Buy

Imagine falling in love with a quaint cottage in Dorchester or a seaside home in Weymouth, only to discover hidden structural issues after purchase. Avoid such surprises with our pre-purchase home surveys. Our comprehensive inspections reveal everything you need to know about your prospective property. We check for structural integrity, potential repairs, and maintenance needs, giving you peace of mind before you make that big investment.

Explore our pre-purchase home surveys to see how we can help you make an informed decision.

Party Wall Act Work: Keeping the Peace

Planning a renovation in Bournemouth or an extension in Poole? Our party wall act services ensure your project doesn’t hit a legal snag. We handle everything from serving notices to resolving disputes, so you can focus on your dream build. Our expert team ensures all legal requirements are met, maintaining harmony with your neighbours.

Learn more about our party wall act services and how we can assist your project.

Snagging Surveys: Perfecting Your New Build

Just moved into a new build in Christchurch or Ferndown? Ensure your home is perfect from the get-go with our snagging surveys. We meticulously inspect your property for any defects or unfinished work, providing a detailed report for you to present to your builder. This way, you can address any issues promptly and enjoy your new home without hassle.

Check out our snagging surveys for a flawless new build experience.

Specific Defect Reports: Solving Property Puzzles

Encountering mysterious damp spots in your Swanage home or unexpected cracks in your property in Shaftesbury? Our specific defect reports are here to demystify these issues. Our experts diagnose the problem and recommend effective solutions, helping you maintain the value and safety of your home.

Discover how our specific defect reports can save your property from minor issues turning into major headaches.

Why West Country Surveyors Ltd?

Choosing West Country Surveyors Ltd means choosing a team that is passionate about property and dedicated to excellence. Here’s why we stand out:

• Experience and Expertise: Our team boasts extensive knowledge and experience, ensuring top-notch service every time.
• Five-Star Ratings: Our clients love us, and it shows in our stellar ratings on Trustpilot and Google Reviews.
• Local Knowledge: We understand Dorset’s unique property market and local regulations, providing you with tailored advice.
• Personalised Service: We treat every client with the utmost care, offering bespoke solutions for your property needs.

Serving Dorset’s Delightful Towns

We’re proud to serve a wide range of towns across Dorset, including:

• Dorchester: The historic county town with beautiful Georgian architecture.
• Weymouth: A seaside gem perfect for coastal living.
• Bournemouth: A vibrant town with bustling beaches and a lively cultural scene.
• Poole: Known for its large natural harbour and waterside properties.
• Christchurch: A charming town with a rich history and stunning landscapes.
• Ferndown: A peaceful residential area with a close-knit community.
• Swanage: A picturesque coastal town on the Isle of Purbeck.
• Shaftesbury: Famous for its iconic Gold Hill and scenic views.

Contact Us Today

Ready to embark on your Dorset property adventure with confidence? Let West Country Surveyors Ltd be your trusted guide. Contact us or give us a call at 01823 429823. Together, we’ll make sure your property is everything you’ve dreamed of – and more.

West Country Surveyors Ltd – where property dreams meet professional expertise!

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Understanding Bat Conservation Laws

**1. ** Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981:

• Bats in England are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to intentionally or recklessly disturb them, damage their roosts, or obstruct access to their roosts.

**2. ** Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017:

• Additionally, the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 reinforces protection for bats and their roosts, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.

The Impact on Residential Property

For potential property buyers, understanding the presence of bats on or near a property is crucial. Here’s how West Country Surveyors can assist:

**1. ** Pre-Purchase Surveys:

• Our expert surveyors can conduct pre-purchase surveys to assess the likelihood of bats roosting in or around the property. Identifying potential roosting sites early in the process allows for informed decision-making.

**2. ** Mitigation Advice:

• In the event that bats are found or suspected, West Country Surveyors can provide advice on mitigation measures. This ensures compliance with conservation laws while still allowing for property development.

**3. ** Planning Permission Assistance:

• We can help navigate the intricacies of bat conservation requirements with the assistance of Consultants and Specialist wildlife experts.

Advice for Property Buyers

**1. ** Early Awareness is Key:

• Be proactive in understanding the local ecology. Early awareness of potential bat habitats near a property allows for better planning and smoother transactions.

**2. ** Consult with Experts:

• Engage with West Country Surveyors for professional guidance. Our team has the expertise to assess, advise, and ensure your property journey aligns with bat conservation laws.

**3. ** Mitigation Doesn’t Mean Complication:

• Mitigating for bats doesn’t have to be a stumbling block. With assistance, you can navigate the process seamlessly, ensuring both your dream home and the local bat population thrive.

Contact West Country Surveyors for Bat-Savvy pre-purchase Surveys

At West Country Surveyors, we’re not just about bricks and mortar; we’re about creating homes that coexist harmoniously with nature. Contact us for ‘bat-savvy surveys’ and expert advice on navigating the protected species landscape. Let’s build not just houses, but habitats that respect and celebrate the winged wonders of England’s night skies.

Contact us on 01823 429823 or office@westcountrysurveyors.co.uk

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Whilst looking at the front elevation I came across this ‘designed in defect‘!

In principle there is decorative brick plinth running across the front of the property and the gutter downpipe needs to come down the wall to the nearest drain. However, instead of the architect, or the site manager, noting this they have designed a ‘work-around‘ whereby the plinth stops either side of the gutter (blue arrow in image 2). However, it is not quite as simple as it first looks as the damp proof course (DPC) runs around the base of the exterior elevation walls and this could not be left out so the bricklayer has left the first 2 bricks in situ and the DPC and simply angled the downpipe over this into the drain via the driveway. The problem comes the DPC (designed to keep rising damp out of the house) has now been exposed (green arrow in image 2) and is lettering rain, and even water from cleaning the car, go over the top of it and into the cavity behind, which in turn is penetrating into the lounge and causing localised damp patches!

All of this could have been avoided with better design and on-site management. It will now cost the client/vendor several hundred pounds to remedy.

This is why you should always get a survey when buying  house, even if the property looks in good condition or is virtually a new build. We cover Bristol to Plymouth and out to the west into the Devon side of Dorset.

You can get a Quote for a survey you need here or, give us a call on 01823 429823 and you can discuss the best option for your prospective home.

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In the same vein I have, in the last few days, surveyed a wonderful Georgian townhouse building in Bristol. It, however, had a huge sink hole (about 4 metres deep) in the adjoining public park no more than 35 metres from the front door. The client literally said ‘I wasn’t aware of that….’

This trip down memory lane got me thinking a bit more about other things clients comment upon fairly regularly when they get their survey report, beyond the usual ‘bricks and mortar’ condition anyway, such as:

1. they had not noticed the electricity pylon in the neighbouring garden
2. they never saw stream over the fence
3. the missing door/s, really?!
4. and indeed the lack of a parking space!

The ‘rose tinted glasses’ really do come on when buying with your heart and that is why a pre-purchase home survey by an independent and impartial RICS Surveyor helps you to be truly informed before committing to the purchase.

You can get a Quote for a survey you need here or, give us a call on 01823 429823 and you can discuss the best option for your prospective home.

PS: There are other festivals, but none are as good as those in the home of cider!

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It is great to know how inspirational the speakers were, how the RICS is getting involved with diversity, equality and inclusion and how the profession as a whole wants to represent the population much better. It has also been great this year seeing the RICS Rules of Conduct change to encompass diversity and inclusion further.

As someone who feels strongly about being an ‘ally to everyone’, it was really good to see the wider surveying community take a strong step forward to ensuring everyone is doing the same. There are obviously more steps to take and challenges to overcome, but this was a great seminar and one I was proud to attend.

West Country Surveyors is, and always has been, open to everyone from all walks, paths and destinations in life.

I hope you like the multicoloured lego people image for this post, it is one of my favourites!

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A new build property structural warranty (NHBC, LABC and Premier Guarantee) is, in its simplest terms insurance for the structure of your new home that lasts around ten years, depending on the policy and provider.

A house/flat will only hold a structural warranty if, during its construction, it is regularly inspected by surveyors and meets the technical standards of the structural warranty provider concerned.

Generally, a structural warranty is split into two periods of time:

Defects Insurance Period – Normally the first two years of a policy, the defects insurance period is the time in which the developer is responsible for rectifying any defects (which are deemed to be a failure to comply with the provider’s standards). Remember to report any defects you notice to your developer as quickly as you can after noticing them and keep copies of any correspondence sent, including proof of postage as good practice.

Structural Insurance Period – Generally the 8 years after the Defects Insurance Period in which your structural warranty provider will be responsible for dealing directly with valid claims. During this period you should report any defects directly to your provider. Providing the defect is valid, the provider should then organise any necessary repair work, or pay for such repairs.

Warning: Warranties on new properties do not pass to second owners of the property within the 10 years in the same way as they exist for the first buyer. Basically, if a defect is discovered by the second owner BUT it was discoverable when they purchased the property then it is not covered under the warranty.

Who to refer to 

• Developer Warranty Period (DWP) – During the first year (Social Housing) or two years of your warranty, defects will likely be covered by the DWP. This means the developer will generally repair the defects for you.
• Structural Insurance Period (SIP) – During the later years of the warranty (After the first two) your warranty provider should repair defects for you.
• Household Insurance – Sometimes damage is nothing to do with the structure of the building or the developer. Weather damage for example, or accidental damage is likely to be covered by your household insurance. But even then, wear and tear or poor installation of the defective item are often excluded from insurance coverage, as such it is in your interest to report faults to the developer or warranty provider as soon as you find them.
• General Maintenance – Minor blemishes or chips are generally a pretty normal sign of wear and tear and are unlikely to be covered by any warranty or insurance product. They are generally easy to take care of with maintenance though.

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Japanese Knotweed, also known as JKW, originated in Asia with its frequency controlled by environmental factors. But  here in the U.K. the plant has no natural predators and due to its rapid growth (up to 10cm per day) it out performs other native fauna to the point that during the summer of left untreated the emerging shoots can exploit weaknesses in brick, metal piling and even tarmac which in turn causes damage to buildings.

Removing Japanese knotweed is very difficult as cuttings as small as 2mm can lead to new growth. The plant is classified as controlled waste and as such requires removal by a licensed waste carrier as prescribed according to the Environmental Protection Act (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991.

The presence of Japanese knotweed can cause issues getting a mortgage when purchasing a property. Each lender has their own guidance regarding JKW and what action needs to take place prior to lending on a property that has knotweed.

Common lender prerequisites are:

• The company undertaking removal works hold Property Care Association membership,
• a 5 year herbicide treatment plan with monitoring, and
• a 10 year insurance backed guarantee covering the work done.

If Japanese knotweed is found during your survey or if we suspect it is present but has been cut back/hidden by a vendor we will recommend a specialist Japanese knotweed survey by a local Property Care Association JKW expert is undertaken prior to exchange of contracts so that you understand the potential cost implications of taking on such a property.

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