Can we call builder/architect to view house prior to buying?

[Rinabee]

Hi all

We have recently had a survey done a property we wish to buy.

” I assume that most buyers would need to completely reconfigure this kitchen. Due to the location of the pantry, it will be a considerable structural job to knock it out and continue to support the walls above.
You should get a quote for this work before proceeding.
The cost of replacing kitchen fittings can vary considerably. If such works are intended, it is recommended that detailed quotations are obtained prior to purchase. “

Two questions please?
Who should I be obtaining quotes from structural engineer/architect/builder. All 3?

Secondly should I anticipate any issues from the estate agents in terms of letting these various people into the house for quotes etc? The house we are buying is unoccupied presently.

You might get more answers if you ask for this to be moved to the DIY forum.

You want quotes from building firms. Ideally get 3 but it may not be possible to do this in a reasonable timescale.

I am not sure why they have advised you to get quotes before the sale goes through. Obviously you can't use it to negotiate with and I assume that you wouldn't have made an offer on the house if you werent happy to take it on in its current state? Will you definitely do the work?

I’ve taken a builder in to an unoccupied house before, but it was to do with the costs of repairs for something more structural, I don’t think this is a problem. Possibly you couldn’t have multiple appointments, but one builder should be able to give you a price indication. A structural surveyor could give you an indication about what walls you could remove, what supports you might need but probably not price. The building market is quite challenging at the moment and there aren’t many of some trades in the market, so any price could be subject to change. It’s not a time I would want to do major works without a significant sum.

We certainly went back with a builder and architect friend for a second viewing of a house we were planning to put in an offer on. I would do it that way, though — organise whoever you need simultaneously and go with them.

Surely you wouldn't renegotiate based on wanting to reconfigure the kitchen? I'd just wait till I was in to get my quotes.

A new kitchen and configuration is entirely your choice.

I can’t work out why it would be needed before hand?

The surveyor is just being helpful/covering their arse, pointing out that the pantry can’t come out without some serious structural support. That way you can’t blame them when you find that out post purchase and don’t have enough money to do the kitchen of your dreams.

That doesn’t mean you necessarily need to get quotes. Builders are in high demand at the moment - you may well struggle to find anyone to come and quote for you on a house you don’t even own yet.

OK - So the surveyor has said most people would anticipate reconfiguring the kitchen including removing the pantry..... But do YOU want to renovate the kitchen as soon as you move in or even before moving in??

Is the cost of these works a consideration in terms of weather you buy the house or not?

Yes you can certainly arrange for a builder and/or structural engineer to visit prior to purchase or even before you make an offer. I would also go with the builder so you can discuss whatever plans/hope you have for the house. Ideally you can try to get 3 quotes but that may be difficult as local busy builders may just see your enquiry as speculative and not worth their time.

To go in once or twice more with a tradesperson is fine, obviously they can only look rather than dig into anything! The builder might want a fee for their time as the work is by no means guaranteed.

If you want 10 appointments with different people they might get a bit snippy......