Waldo Road, Kensal Green, NW10
The Instruction
Our client was considering the purchase of a mixed-use property on Waldo Road, Kensal Green.
Stokemont’s pre-purchase Surveying team were instructed to undertake an RICS Level 2 Home Survey to provide an independent assessment of the property’s condition and identify any significant defects or matters requiring further investigation before the purchase proceeded.
The property’s age, mixed-use arrangement and range of maintenance issues made a thorough assessment particularly important.
The Property
The property was an early twentieth-century mixed-use building within an established area of Kensal Green.
Its age and construction presented a number of considerations beyond those typically encountered within a modern residential property. The mixed-use nature of the building also required consideration of different elements of the property and their respective condition.
Key Survey Findings
Damp
Evidence of dampness was identified during the inspection. We considered the likely sources and recommended appropriate further investigation and remedial works where necessary.
Asbestos
Given the age and construction of the property, materials with the potential to contain asbestos were identified as a consideration. We recommended appropriate specialist investigation before disturbing relevant materials.
Pest Activity
Evidence indicating potential pest-related issues was also identified. Further specialist investigation was recommended to establish the extent of the issue and any necessary treatment.
Building Condition
A range of additional maintenance and repair issues were identified during the inspection. These were assessed in the context of the property’s age, construction and intended use.
Our Advice
We advised the purchaser to obtain further specialist investigations where required, particularly in relation to the damp, potential asbestos-containing materials and pest-related concerns.
The findings were also intended to assist the purchaser in understanding the likely maintenance requirements and potential costs associated with acquiring an older mixed-use property.
Where significant defects or specialist issues are identified during a pre-purchase survey, obtaining appropriate further advice before exchange or completion can help a purchaser make a properly informed decision.
The Outcome
Our Level 2 Home Survey provided the purchaser with an independent assessment of a relatively complex mixed-use property and highlighted several matters that warranted further investigation.
The inspection identified issues extending beyond routine maintenance, including damp, potential asbestos-related risks and evidence of pest activity. By bringing these matters to the purchaser’s attention at an early stage, the survey provided valuable information for further investigation and informed decision-making.
The instruction demonstrated the importance of selecting an appropriate level of survey where a property’s age, construction or use introduces additional risks and considerations.
Stokemont provides RICS Level 2 Home Surveys and Level 3 Building Surveys for purchasers seeking independent advice on the condition and potential risks associated with residential and mixed-use properties.
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