Surveyor-Expert.com
James Latter C.N.E.I. Membre agrée
Click here to view problems frequently found in older buildings
Pre-Purchase Survey: - Putting the property into context and your mind at rest
This will cover all aspects of the structure, including foundations, walls, floors, ceilings, roof carpentry, roof covering, waste drainage (sewerage) and services (electricity etc.).
Areas of France covered:
Generally, the area covered is from, Le Touquet in the north to the Loire Valley going south, St. Malo to the west and Paris (Île de France) to the east. Click to see sample properties recently surveyed
Other parts of France can also be covered by arrangement, with sufficient advanced notice (see sample of properties inspected). Rapid transport (T.G.V.) makes it possible to undertake inspections in the Angoulême, Bordeaux and Agen triangle.
This exercise can take place in conjunction with the building survey and will analyse the impact of any conversion or development plans you may have in respect of the existing structure. It will take account of planning and zoning issues.
e.g. you are considering buying an
old "corps de ferme" and wish to convert one of the outbuildings to
Gîtes. The following questions might arise.
a) Is it achievable within the existing structure?
b) Will planning be a problem?
c) What might it cost?
d) Will it add to the value of the property?
e) Are there other solutions to achieve the same goal with less capital outlay?
A feasibility study prior to renovation work, in order to set out a programmed plan of action, can also be undertaken.
The building survey does not normally include a valuation. If requested, an opinion as to value based on the condition of the property and equivalent current market values can be given.
Formal valuations 'valeur venale'
can be undertaken as a separate exercise.
A pre-renovation survey will analyse the building's condition in the context of plans to renovate, restore, modify or convert.
A schedule of repairs and essential preparatory works can save time and cost.
Project management can be arranged
subject to location.
Fees are charged on the basis of time spent on inspecting, researching and reporting. They take account of the size, age, location and general condition of the property and are not related to the asking price.
Factors such as whether the property is occupied, furnished etc. will be taken into account, as well as distance travelled.
Please provide as much detailed information as possible, with photographs and surface habitable, when requesting a quote
Whilst every effort is made to respond quickly, it is sometime difficult to arrange an inspection within the seven day period of reflection (cooling-off).
Advance notice of the likelihood of a survey requirement is ideal - with confirmation ten days in advance if possible.
Written reports: are in plain English with French terminology translated. Photographs are cross-referenced for ease of identification.
Verbal appraisal: Invariably clients require specific clarification on several key issues before proceeding to a Compromis de Vente. A telephone conversation on the day of inspection is often sufficient to deal with this and a written report generally follows within a week.