WHY SURVEY?

Clients need to understand what they are buying: financially and practically.
Prospective purchasers are often told by immobiliers (estate agents) that a survey is not needed because: “This property is derelict and you can see what you’re getting” or: “The property has just been renovated and therefore it does not need to be inspected”.
Modern French building techniques are different to those in the UK - especially in the areas of structure, water penetration and damp - and the long-term lack of maintenance of the older buildings makes an independent assessment imperative.
It is often the hidden defects and their consequences which turn out to cost the most and are very often not detected by the untrained eye. For example, it is usually considered that structural problems are the most expensive to rectify, but it is - in fact - elements such as roofs, heating systems and electrical installations that turn out to be the most expensive to put right.

As experienced Chartered Surveyors, Surveylink France will be able to give you an indication of any remedial expenditure, providing you indicative costs over and above the purchase price and a good idea of the timescales and order of importance of any such expenditure.

A comprehensive report is needed to provide sound technical opinions as to the state of the building and give practical advice on any general or specific matter warranting it. In short, pre-purchase reports should provide a technical reference document which can also be used for price negotiation purposes - providing you with peace of mind.