Lack of certificates :(

[thelastkingdom]

Certificates, Certificates, Certificates! At what point does a lack of certificates when buying a property begin to cause concern? We are buying our next family home and I am really surprised by the complete lack of any certification. Over time the property has had an extension - no building control certificate, a new boiler - not on gas safe register, wood burner - no HETAS certification, new windows and doors - not on FENSA, electrical work - no minor works certificate. The list is endless. My solicitor is recommending indemnity policies for everything which I really do loathe. I am worried that when I come to sell it myself these could be an issue for certain buyers. It's an older couple that is selling the place to downsize. I do have some sympathy, many times I have had to chase tradesmen for required certification on other properties - you really do need to know what to ask for as often you don’t get the certification unless you ask.

@thelastkingdom
Just bear in mind that the majority of posters have said that they'd go ahead but you're focusing on the few who say that they'd walk away - are you usually a bit pessimistic, focusing on the negative? If that's the case write a list of pro's + cons to focus your worries.
A lack of paperwork when it comes to elderly vendors is very common but the houses that they're selling tend to be worth buying as being more spacious and it's easier to rip out & remodel.

What would the certificates tell you about the current state of any of the things you listed? Surely a bit like a car MOT it's only 'valid' when it's done? I agree the extension could be a problem, but the gas, electric, windows and log burner well get them checked out if you're worried about them being safe.

If they haven't bothered to go through the process of doing things properly, will they have undertaken the routine checks to ensure they are safe and working properly? My guess would be unlikely- they wouldn't have swept the chimney for the burner, or serviced the boiler.

Also, having recently been through the building control process, I would worry about the quality of a builder who wouldn't do this. Every single one we spoke to mentioned this from the start. Getting a regularisation certificate would cancel the indemnity insurance; not getting kne would make it difficult to sell on.