Okay, so our full survey report finally came in today. I was expecting bad. But I think it may be walk-away bad? We knew the outside side wall had been rebuilt, but not why, although we had a good idea. If the issue is fixed it’s okay with us, but this sounds like it may not be. It’s a bit vague though, please help!
He’s stated a lot of problems (including a rebuilding of the side wall) were caused by structural movement. He thinks partly settlement and partly localised ground movement. We knew this was likely and are unconcerned as long as it is historical and fixed. This remedial work occurred prior to the vendor buying it, early nineties. However, he says that to the rear elevation the wall is bowed and cracked externally, suggesting “onset of the condition which required remedial work to the side elevation”. Is that code for there’s still movement?!?!
Other items noted that I’d like some comment on are a large crack in the attic indicating possible gable peak movement (linked to structural movement) but no word as to whether that is historical or requires action.
There is penetrating damp in the kitchen due to part of the wall being below pavement level. How can we fix this issue? It’s a solid stone wall built facing down a hill.
One bedroom indicates there may be penetrating damp from the rebuilt wall section, again, how do we fix that?
The hallway is very uneven as a result of the old movement. A self levelling compound has been laid and “already failed”, again is this a hint that movement is ongoing? Why can’t he say that?!
The wall in question was rebuilt in the early nineties and no cracks or deformities have developed since then. Equally, as far as we know no paperwork goes along with that job even though it would have needed building regs. It was prior to the current owner buying it. It is a Edwardian end of terrace home.
Everything else seems bearable in its awfulness. We know there are leaks and the lean to needs to come down etc. But the movement bit has terrified me honestly. I’m awaiting his call back but any advice in the meantime would be great.
Just to add that in the list of surveyors recommendations he makes no mention of any movement or getting reports on it etc. The rear side elevation bowing has absolutely scared the CRAP out of me.