EXPERT PROPERTY SURVEYING SERVICES THAT SPECIFICALLY CATER TO ST ALBANS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

We were instructed to carry out an RICS Level 3 Home Survey for a client looking to purchase a three-bedroom house, built around 1890, in St Albans, AL1. Ahead of the inspection, the client raised several specific concerns, including asking the surveyor to comment on visible external cracking, potential signs of damp and whether the presence of moss and moisture on the brickwork was purely cosmetic or indicative of underlying issues.

Our surveyor, Shaun Blake, conducted a thorough inspection and addressed each concern in a clear and easy-to-understand report. He observed vegetation growth on the chimney stack and recommended it be removed, as it could otherwise lead to further deterioration of the mortar pointing. Cracking on the external wall was also noted, which Shaun advised was likely the result of previous structural alterations and not a significant concern. Additionally, he reported that water which was discharging from the gutters and saturating the external wall could eventually lead to internal damp problems if was left unaddressed.

The client later praised the “thoroughness” of the report in a review and commented on the “excellent communication” throughout the process.

We were originally contacted by two adjoining owners from a quiet turning close to Croxley Common Moor. They both had concerns about their neighbours proposed works. After the initial discussion with both parties, the building owner served them with party wall notices. With all three neighbours’ approval, Matthew Price was formally appointed as the ‘Agreed Surveyor’ for all three properties and Katie Merchant assisted.

Prior to recording the Schedule of Condition of the two adjoining owners’ properties, in person discussions were had in order to advise and reassure on the party wall process along with aspect of the building owners’ works that are notifiable under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. As the proposed works related to a single storey extension which is quite common and all the required drawings were on file, all party wall awards were served to all parties within a few days of inspecting.

Their review commented ‘Katie was very professional and thorough’.

Our surveyor, David Breeze, carried out an RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Report inspection for a two-bedroom house based in St Albans, AL4.

During the inspection, David identified significant damp issues affecting several areas of the property, including the bedroom, reception room, dining room, and porch area. Externally, he observed that the roofing underlay was protruding into the gutters, which he explained could draw moisture into the roof space. He also noted that the damp proof course to the rear of the house would crumble when touched, and therefore he recommended for it to be replaced. David also discovered that the external render had been applied over the damp proof course, which is a cause of bridging and results in internal damp issues.

During a telephone call with the client, David advised him on the necessary next steps should they decide to proceed with the purchase, including the likely need to rebuild the porch, which was suffering from significant damp issues.

The client left a positive review, describing our team as “helpful and responsive” and stating they would “highly recommend” our services.

We were instructed by our client to carry out an RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey for a one-bedroom purpose-built flat located in St Albans, AL1. The client had concerns regarding potential signs of leaks, damp, or condensation issues, as well as the condition of the electrical and heating systems.

The property was generally in good condition; however, our surveyor David Breeze noted above-average moisture readings around the bedroom’s Velux-style windows. He explained that this was likely due to the windows being on the north-facing side of the property, which is more susceptible to condensation. In terms of the electrical and heating systems, David observed that they appeared to be in sound condition but recommended that the client seek further testing by a qualified specialist to do thorough checks. Externally, David observed vegetation growth within the gutters, to which he recommends for it to be cleared as it could lead to drainage blockages.

In a review, the client praised the “timely written” report and mentioned that he would “highly recommend” our services to others.

Our senior surveyor Matthew Price assisted by Katie Merchant, acted as the agreed surveyor on a sensitive party wall matter in St Albans, AL2. The building owner was proposing to construct a loft conversion, whilst the adjoining property was going through probate.

Katie was in regular communication with the son and daughter of the deceased owners. They had understandable concerns about protecting the property’s condition for both the probate process and the eventual new owners. Katie took the time to address each concern clearly and ensure transparency throughout the process. Following the schedule of condition inspection, she and Matthew were able to finalise and serve the party wall award within two days, delivering a solution that was considerate, timely, and professionally handled.

The son of the adjoining owners later left a review mentioning how the service as “professional from start to finish” and highlighted how Katie was “very helpful.”