Can Anyone Help With This From A Survey?

[securespark]

I'm a spark, been in the game 30 years. Know my way pretty well round a house in terms of structure, but don't understand this.

Can anyone help, please?

 

[Wayners]

I asked AI.
Hope this is helpful.




This text is an excerpt from a UK property survey report. It highlights a potential legal and structural issue with how a previous renovation was handled.
Here is a breakdown of what it means in plain English:
The Core Issue
Finlock Gutters Removed: The house originally had "Finlock" gutters, which are heavy concrete blocks that serve a dual purpose: they act as the roof gutter and also form the structural lintel (support beam) sitting directly above the window openings.
Support Altered: When the original concrete gutters were cut back or removed, it altered the structural support above the first-floor windows.
Why the Surveyor Flagged It
Structural Alteration: Because these concrete gutters held up weight, removing or changing them counts as a major structural modification.
Regulations Required: This type of work legally requires Building Regulations approval to ensure proper steel or concrete lintels were installed to safely take the weight of the roof.
The Good News vs. The Legal Problem
No Current Damage: The surveyor notes there is "no evidence on site to indicate support... is inadequate." This means the house is not showing immediate signs of structural failure, sagging, or cracking above the windows.
Missing Paperwork: Even though it looks fine visually, there is no official paper trail proving the work was done to code.
What You Need to Do Next
Your legal advisers (solicitors) need to ask the seller for the official Building Regulations Completion Certificate for the gutter removal work. If the seller cannot provide this paperwork, you generally have a few options:
Indemnity Insurance: Request that the seller pays for a Building Regulations indemnity insurance policy to protect you against future council enforcement.
Regularisation Certificate: Ask the seller to apply retrospectively to the local council for approval.
Structural Specialist: Hire a structural engineer to inspect the openings and confirm proper lintels are present.
If you are currently buying this property, let me know:
Has your solicitor already requested the property fixtures and fittings forms?
Are there any visible cracks around the first-floor windows?
Do you know how long ago this gutter work was done?
I can help you draft a specific question to send to your conveyancer or surveyor.
AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more




AI Mode response is ready

 

[securespark]

Thank you!

Eldest lad is in the middle of making an offer on this gaff.

I'll talk to him tonight and pass this on.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

More important is seeing for yourself as to whether the work was done OK (if you can), if the rafters are adequately supported as are the window heads then jobs a good'un. When was the work done? Got any photos? Speak to the owner.

Bear in mind the usual surveyors get out clauses and hiding behind all sorts of disclaimers.