Should Have Gone to DMP
A long-standing friend of Delaney Marling Partnership (DMP) was recently purchasing a buy-to-let property, when they encountered a situation that underscored the importance of engaging a chartered building surveyor from the outset.
Background
The client, initially relied on a standard Homebuyers survey when purchasing their new investment property. However, this survey failed to provide detailed information about potential damp issues, merely stating that damp levels were “high” without offering any specific measurements or actionable insights.
Challenge
Feeling uncertain about the vague damp assessment, the client sought DMP’s expertise for a comprehensive damp survey. Due to high demand, it took four weeks before DMP could inspect the property. As Jess, our client, explained, “I thought I was saving time by going with a Homebuyer’s survey from a local firm. However, it ended up costing me twice as much since it provided no useful information and just raised further questions.”
DMP’s Approach
Upon inspection, DMP’s chartered building surveyors conducted a thorough damp survey, which included:
- Visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property
- Use of electronic moisture meters to accurately measure damp levels
- Assessment of the property’s ventilation and drainage systems
- Examination of the building’s exterior for potential water ingress points
Findings
Contrary to the Homebuyers survey’s vague “high” damp levels claim, DMP’s survey revealed that moisture levels were no higher than 23%. Beetle and fungus like timber that is over 20% but in this case with reasonable ventilation and a concrete floor (so no timber floor structure) this figure doesn’t cause any significant concern. However, the survey did identify several areas where water could potentially access the property, which could lead to internal problems if left unaddressed.
DMP’s Value-Add
- Accurate Measurements: Unlike the initial survey, DMP provided a table of precise moisture readings, giving the client a clear understanding of the property’s condition.
- Photographic Evidence: Unlike the initial survey, DMP provided plenty of clear images of the damp readings and to highlight specific issues at the property.
- Preventative Recommendations: DMP highlighted potential water ingress points, allowing the client to address these issues proactively before they became significant problems.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: By identifying minor issues early, DMP helped the client avoid potentially costly repairs in the future.
- Expert Interpretation: DMP’s chartered surveyors provided context for the findings, explaining what the measurements meant in practical terms for the purchaser.
Lessons Learned
This case study demonstrates the value of engaging a chartered building surveyor like DMP from the beginning of a property purchase, especially for buy-to-let investments. The detailed insights and expert recommendations can save significant time and money in the long run.
Notably, the cost of the full survey by DMP was only £120 more than the Homebuyers, yet the level of detail was incomparable.
By providing accurate measurements, identifying potential issues, and offering preventative advice, DMP enabled the client to make informed decisions about their investment property. This level of detail and expertise is particularly crucial for buy-to-let properties, where maintaining the property’s condition is essential for attracting and retaining tenants.
Our client, Jess comments: “When it comes to property surveys, particularly for damp issues, property investors should consider the adage: ‘Should have gone to DMP.’ The expertise of chartered building surveyors can provide peace of mind and potentially significant cost savings in both the short-term and the long term.”