structural engineers report

[jaycee401]

After being accepted for mortgage, had the survey done and its come back that the property has suffered from evidence of structural movement but the external cracking could indicate ongoing movement, so I have to get structural engineers report. I have spoken with the guy who did the valuation and he basicaly told me he was certain its all historic but he was passing the buck onto someone else! I have had 4 surveys done on this is the past and all mention historic movement but no current problems. It did have an engineers report done on the prop when my ex partner first bought it in about 2002 and it was fine, dont no where that report is now tho. I bought if off ex in 2004.

[bednobs]

ok, so what's the question?

[jaycee401]

lol, sorry. I am mad that he told me he was passing the buck, which is now going to cost me £300 can I make a complaint about it?

[jackthehat]

How did he phrase his 'passing of the buck' ?

Did he recommend anyone else to take a look ?

Did you use and RICS acredited surveyor ?

[jaycee401]

Yes he was RICS, he was sent on behalf of the mortgage lender. He said he was confident that the movement was historic and that he was basically passing the buck and letting someone else i.e. structural engineer handle the problem. I suppose so no comeback will fall on his head! He recommeded a structural engineer to check the property. His exact words were , I am passing the buck and letting someone else handle the problem.

[jaycee401]

Also they valued it at £150k with a £10k retention, which i presume means they will lend but hold £10k until any work which the engineers report may bring up is done, once work done or report clear then the £10k restriction will be lifted?

[jackthehat]

That type of valuation is carried out simply for the mortgage company to establish that they are lending their money on a property which is a 'safe' bet.

He is not confident of making a 'sound determination' as to the condition of the property as regard to movement/subsidence which is why he has suggested that you get a Structural Engineer on board.

I'm afraid that you'll have to pay for a suitably qualified professional to investigate any likely 'niggles'. It's not unreasonable on the part of your mortgage lender.
I think your final post is entirely correct.

[jaycee401]

Thanks, I will arrange for a structural engineer, sorry to be a pain but if say the engineer says there is £3k amount of work needs doing, would I be able to get this done and then pay for the works once the mortgage completes as I do not have that kind of money to pay up front. Hopefully it will just say all movement is historic! Meant to say this is a buy to let re-mortgage.

[jackthehat]

I really don't know what terms your mortgage company will impose, especially as it is a buy-to-let.......

It couldn't hurt to ring them and ask.

[bednobs]

i would very much doubt that any contractor would just wait until it was suitale for you to pay them