7th Mar 2026 (11 days ago)
Viewed a semi-detached property on Croham Valley Road marketed by this estate agent and progressed with the purchase as a serious buyer, incurring costs for legal work and a professional survey.
The survey report later indicated that the loft conversion did not appear to comply with building regulations. When this was raised, I requested a price reduction to reflect the potential risks and costs associated with this issue. The survey also highlighted several other Level 3 items (the surveyor’s highest category of concern), including concerns relating to possible structural adequacy, damp, leaks, and structural issues noted in relation to the garage.
I was also disappointed with the way the survey findings were discussed. During this conversation the agent commented that “you have employed your surveyor to find as many faults as possible, which he has done.” I found this remark dismissive. A survey is a normal and necessary part of the buying process and is intended to highlight potential issues so buyers can make informed decisions.
While the agent indicated that the structural concerns had been communicated to the seller, my impression was that they were presented as relatively minor matters, which in my view did not fully reflect the seriousness of the Level 3 issues highlighted in the survey report.
I was offered a reduction of only £5k. I was open to negotiation; however, I felt this did not adequately reflect the potential implications raised in the survey report, and the property was subsequently re-listed.
In my opinion the agent was not particularly proactive in helping both sides reach a compromise once the survey findings were identified, and the communication around these points could have been handled more constructively. This was disappointing after I had already incurred costs progressing with the purchase. Had the loft conversion issue been known earlier, I personally would not have made an offer in the first place.
Buyers may wish to ensure they carry out thorough Level 3 surveys with reputable companies before proceeding with any purchase. In my experience, it was money well spent.... Read more