Any ideas what this patch is on ceiling?

[thedoomed]

Went for a final viewing at a house today that considering making an offer on.

Noticed a patch on the ceiling (see attachment). Its near a chimney breast.

Looks like its on the photos advertised online (taken a month ago) and we missed it on earlier viewing.

Any ideas? Hasn't worsened since the original photos.

 

[foxhole]

It's a stain.

 

[thedoomed]

It's a stain.

Thanks for the prompt reply.

A stain = nothing to worry about?

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Have you looked in the loft?

 

[thedoomed]

Have you looked in the loft?

Yes. Seemed to be a dry space. Boiler at opposite end. Mainly floored. Insulated. Various boxes stored.

 

[Burnerman]

I think I'd want to get above that very spot - maybe its a historic pipe leak or something?
Failing that, paint it out and see if it returns.
John

 

[misterhelpful]

Is that a suspended ceiling or is it a plaster ceiling that just has wooden strips fixed to it. Make sure that if it's suspended that the panels are not the asbestos kind.
As for the stain, if it's dry and hasn't worsened then hopefully it's something that has been sorted and a little stain block before repainting will suffice to hide it. As it's near a chimney it could have been a leak in lead flashing or even rainwater getting into the flue so double check and ask the seller/agent.