The Most Common Issues Found in a Property Survey
A property survey offers a detailed evaluation of a building’s physical condition, highlighting visible and hidden defects that may influence its value, safety or suitability. While every survey is tailored to the individual property, certain issues frequently arise across residential, commercial and industrial buildings alike.
Below, we outline the most common concerns typically uncovered in a wide range of property surveys.
1. Damp and Moisture Ingress
Damp and moisture ingress in a property survey refers to the presence or risk of unwanted water entering or accumulating within a building’s structure. It is one of the most common and potentially damaging issues picked up during both residential and commercial surveys.
Common forms include rising damp from the ground, penetrating damp through damaged walls or roofs and condensation caused by poor ventilation. Left untreated, damp can lead to mould, structural decay and even health issues. Surveyors use moisture meters to detect affected areas and may recommend specialist reports for further investigation.
2. Roofing Defects
Roof defects are common findings in property surveys and can significantly impact a building’s condition. Typical issues include missing or broken tiles, sagging roof structures, deteriorated flat roof coverings and damaged flashing around chimneys or roof junctions. In commercial or industrial buildings, defects in metal sheeting or membrane roofs are also frequently noted. These problems can lead to water ingress, heat loss and costly repairs if not addressed. Where access is limited, further inspection may be recommended.
3. Structural Movement
Structural movement refers to any shifting or deformation within a building’s framework that can lead to visible signs such as cracks in walls, uneven floors or doors and windows that no longer close properly. This movement can arise from several causes:
Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a property sinks, often due to soil shrinkage, tree roots or drainage issues. Settlement is a slower, often harmless process where a building gradually beds in after construction. Heave is the opposite of subsidence, caused by moisture-rich soils (like clay) expanding and pushing foundations upward, leading to cracks and distortion.
During a survey, crack patterns and sizes are assessed to identify signs of movement. Widening or cracks near doors and windows may indicate ongoing issues. While some may be historic and stable, unexplained movement often needs a structural engineer’s input, as it can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns.
4. Electrical Safety Concerns
Older electrical installations often fall short of modern safety standards across all property types. Surveys may reveal outdated fuse boards, inadequate earthing or signs of amateur installations. In commercial properties, electrical systems are often more complex and require detailed inspection. Lack of recent certification or deterioration often leads to recommendations for an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to ensure compliance and safety.
5. Plumbing and Drainage Issues
Plumbing and heating issues are common concerns highlighted in property surveys. Plumbing problems can include outdated or hazardous pipe materials, leaks, corrosion, poor water pressure and faulty drainage systems, all of which affect a building’s functionality and can lead to costly repairs.
Heating systems may be outdated, inefficient or poorly maintained, with risks of leaks, corrosion or safety hazards. Early identification of these issues allows property owners or buyers to plan necessary maintenance or upgrades, ensuring safety, comfort and energy efficiency.
6. Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Insulation and energy efficiency are important considerations for any property, impacting comfort, running costs and environmental performance. Surveys often highlight shortcomings such as uninsulated lofts, unfilled cavity walls, single-glazed windows and outdated heating systems like old boilers or electric storage heaters. In commercial buildings, poor thermal insulation or inefficient HVAC systems can significantly increase operational costs. These issues may not require immediate action but are useful for budgeting future improvements. Addressing them can lead to better energy ratings, lower utility bills and enhanced long-term value.
7. Legal and Compliance Matters
Property surveys can uncover important legal considerations, including unauthorised extensions or alterations lacking planning permission or building regulation approvals, boundary disputes, shared access rights or restrictive covenants. Such issues should be addressed by legal professionals as part of the purchase or leasing process.
8. Timber Defects and Pest Activity
Timber defects and pest activity are common issues, particularly in older or poorly ventilated buildings. Surveyors often look for signs of timber decay, woodworm, dry rot or fungal growth, especially in roof voids, floor structures and basements. Damp conditions can accelerate deterioration and compromise structural integrity.
Evidence of pest activity such as rodents, insects or nesting in lofts and outbuildings, are also noted. Where damage or infestation is suspected, a specialist timber and damp survey is usually recommended to assess the extent and advise on treatment or repairs. Early detection helps prevent more serious structural problems and costly remediation.
How Southdown Surveyors Can Help You
A comprehensive property survey from Southdown Surveyors delivers a clear and accurate understanding of a building’s condition, helping owners, buyers and investors make informed decisions. Many commonly found issues, whether in homes, offices, shops or industrial units, can be managed or resolved with the right expertise and timely intervention.
Contact us today for more information on 01323 739183, or email us at info@southdownsurveyors.com.
