ANSWERS
1, These are wall ties, made from steel these rust in the cavity when metal rusts it expands. In some cases, the expansion can cause the wall to bulge.
RISK = Do you look for slight bulges or rust spots in walls? A significant cost if missed.
OPPORTUNITY = Identify it, get a specialist to confirm it and negotiate it on the price.
2, This is a damp-proof course (DPC) it stops moisture from rising up both internally and externally.
RISK = If it’s not there or covered it will create damp, this is notable cost if missed.
OPPORTUNITY = Know your refurbishment when buying.
3, This is a movement gauge sometimes called a “tell-tale” they are fitted by structural engineers to monitor if a building is structurally moving.
RISK = If you see one someone thinks the building is moving.
OPPORTUNITY = Ask for a copy of the structural engineer’s report, it won’t be offered unless you ask for it. Know your refurbishment cost when buying
4, This not so beautiful plant is Japanese knotweed, it is catastrophic to buildings. The flowers come out in the later summer months, prior to this it looks like a variety of normal garden weeds.
RISK = Japanese knotweed can only be removed by licensed companies. This can be a significant cost.
OPPORTUNITY = A specialist is needed before buying, negotiate the cost into the purchase price.
5, Chimneys always lean towards the sun, it’s caused by the sun drying out the mortar. Always on the South facing side.
RISK = The chimney may need to be re-built or removed.
OPPORTUNITY = This is not subsidence as many think, the price should reflect this, with knowledge you know that it’s not a structural issue.
6, This could be just the path sinking due to poor installation or it could be due to the drain collapsing, always a point for further investigation.
RISK = If you don’t spot it or assume its just poor workmanship and it’s the drain you could be faced with a cost you have not budgeted for.
OPPORTUNITY = By simply lifting the manhole cover and running a tap you can see if the water flows freely.
7, Look closely at the gap over the door, it’s evident the door frame is not level. Try closing the door and see if it fits, however this is a fire door on a closer so should swing shut, a classic unseen case of structural movement
RISK = Many wouldn’t spot this and could buy a structurally affected property.
OPPORTUNITY = Identify, get a structural engineer to check it and negotiate. OR walk away knowing you have not bought a huge problem.