Subsidence in Dulwich

[Dulwichconvert]

Hi All,

Firstly, happy holidays!!

We are looking at properties in the ND Triangle area and note that, visually, numerous properties have suffered from ground movement. I assume this will only get worse with the extreme weather I have noticed over the past decade of summers and the high number of trees lining these streets. Of the few homes I have viewed with an agent, there always seem to be cracks. It is also not clear which houses have been underpinned. 

Appreciate this comes with the territory of buyung in this area but I should be very grateful if you would share any tips / tales to assist me with navigating this, as it is quite daunting.

Many thanks in advance.

[Sue]

The seller should tell you if the house has been underpinned or has had other stabilising work done (eg resin injection) or if they are aware of any other issues.

You need to ask relevant questions about each house you view, and if you see cracks ask if they know the reason.

If they seem to be holding information back, push until you get it.

Also, if you make an offer on a house get a proper full structural survey done by someone you trust. Don't just rely on a survey done for mortgage reasons (if you need a mortgage).

If there is a cellar/coal hole  and/or a loft, make sure the surveyor looks at them properly.

If the owner has blocked access, eg with stuff stored under the stairs or a carpet over a trap door access to the cellar,  get it unblocked so the surveyor can get to it.

If you have a feeling there is something wrong, there probably is.

I speak from bitter experience.

Edited 3 hours ago by Sue