Derbyshire Chamber member The Association of building engineers

New Property Checks

We all expect something new to be in pristine condition. However, mistakes can happen and may be costly and inconvenient if not discovered early.

Very often people decide to purchase a new property before completion, on the basis that they have been into the show house and like the location and design. However, it should be remembered that the show house is the developer's shop window and he will have gone to great lengths to ensure that everything is immaculate.

You will assume therefore that when your house is complete, it will match the same standards as the show house. This is not always the case. Generally, building contractors work to consistent specifications but the number of different trades involved in building a property means that inevitably some items are not as they should be.

Most people can spot the obvious, such as poor finish to the paintwork, but how many are confident in identifying construction defects that may cause problems long after the developer has left site?

For peace of mind, a new property survey is essential.