So, you’re buying a Listed property – something older, that has been officially recognised as being a bit special because of its age or architectural features?

You’ll certainly be in need of a full survey to advise you on the architectural authenticity and the condition of what you are buying. The property will have had many owners – with varying views on the appropriateness of maintenance and budgets to undertake repairs properly. Also, fashions change and period features may have been removed in the interests of ‘modernisation’ or ‘improvements’. It is also important to be aware of the quality of later repairs and the materials used. Further, you will need to know whether alterations to the property have been done correctly and with Listed Building consent.

Your detailed survey report will contain the following sections:

Introduction
Summary Description
Structural movement
Timber defects
Dampness (dpc, rising, penetrating and condensation)
Insulation (sound and thermal)
Fire protection
Rainwater fittings
Chimneys
Roof structure and coverings
External walls
External joinery
External decorations
Roof spaces
Ceilings
Internal walls
Floors
Fireplaces, flues and chimney breasts
Internal joinery Internal decorations
Services (electricity, gas, water, heating, drains) These are not tested but general comments are made. It is always prudent to have an independent inspection of the service installations.
Site and grounds

When you buy a Listed property you are buying something rather special and different to more modern properties. There will be an element of craftsmanship, design and thought gone into the property and you will want some reassurance that the years have not had a detrimental effect. Your survey report will give you all the information you need to make a balanced judgement on your purchase.