Roofing

Home Buyers Survey - Roof

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.41 PM

Looking for a bit of advice! We have recieved the results of a survey back and some concerns about the chimney stack and roof have been raised. We eventually would like to undertake a loft conversion so if the works listed below don't seem urgent then we would be inclined to proceed and then just fix issues when the loft is converted in a couple of years. Would really value any advice on how to proceed based on the following report from the Homebuyers Survey. This is a 1930s terraced house in South East London. We noted dampness internally where the chimney stack passes into the property and repairs are now required. However, even with the detailing and pointing in good condition, the lack of a damp proof course (DPC) within the stack will allow periodic water penetration. This is essentially a design fault. If durable outside repairs cannot be achieved we recommend that the stack is removed externally, and the roof covering made good or alternatively, the exposed masonry taken down and re-built with a suitable membrane to prevent excessive damp penetration. The main roof to the property is of original pitched design covered with plain tiles. The flat roof to the bay is covered in felt. The covering is laid over battens and supported by a timber frame. The roof covering is in a poor state of repair. It is probably beyond economic repair and should now be stripped and renewed. A number of defects/issues were noted to the flat roof including suspect detailing and it is possible that the roof could leak at any time. Repairs should be carried out to extend the life of the covering. It can be difficult to repair flat roofs effectively and renewal may prove to be the best option. Obtain estimates for all appropriate repair, maintenance and improvement works, prior to exchange of contract. Flat roofs are known to have a limited lifespan.