FAQs About Surveying in Cambridge
Our team at Compare My Move have done the research so you can be prepared when it comes to arranging a survey for a property in Cambridge. Our data shows that our users in Cambridge most commonly opted for a homebuyers survey for a semi-detached property.
We also found that both Japanese Knotweed and subsidence concerns were both present in the area, however, the risks of both were far lower than larger cities.
What are the Most Popular Surveys in Cambridge?
Compare My Move’s data shows that the most popular survey type for our Cambridge users in a homebuyers survey, with 79% of people needing this survey. A huge 27% of people required a homebuyers survey for a semi-detached property in Cambridge and 23.26% had a homebuyers survey for a flat.
Our data shows that building surveys are not required for most property in Cambridge, however the most popular property type that required a building survey is a terraced house. If the property you plan to buy was built over 80 years ago and has signs of cracking or subsidence, then you will need a building survey.
As the homebuyer survey is the most popular type, it’s good to learn when you’ll need one. If the property was built less than 80 years and is in good condition, then a homebuyers will be more suited to you.
What Types of Historical Architecture Does Cambridge Have?
Cambridge is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, perhaps most of all for the esteemed University of Cambridge. The University buildings are worth a visit in their own right, from Senate House to Trinity College Great Court. There is plenty of architecture beyond the University walls, with the city being home to 67 Grade I listed buildings, 47 Grade II listed buildings and 17 conservation areas.
Portugal Place is considered one of the prettiest streets in the city, linking Bridge Street and Jesus Green. These houses are mostly three-storey with bay windows and are highly sought after, with the average asking price for a property here at £447,321
Property in Cambridge consists of a variety of different areas including Georgian, a mix of grand Victorian and Edwardian homes and terraced housing, 1930s semi homes and mid-century housing, sometimes based on popular Scandinavian designs of the 1960s.
Although new build properties are being built in the city, many of the property sales are for existing properties and older homes. UK House Price Index figures from January 2020 shows just 3 sales of new builds versus 70 sales of “existing” properties.
| Listed Buildings | 114 |
| Conservation Areas | 17 |
| New Build Sales* | 3 |
| Existing Property Sales* | 70 |
*Based on data for January 2020
Is Subsidence an Issue in Cambridge?
Subsidence occurs when there is a change in the condition of the ground beneath a property, causing it to “sink.” This can lead to devastating structural changes and problems in the foundations of the property.
A map of subsidence issues created by Geobear has revealed that although the risk of subsidence is present in Cambridgeshire, the risk is far lower than larger cities in the UK such as Birmingham and London. However, the map does show Cambridge with one of the largest amounts of subsidence concerns in the greater area of Cambridgeshire, so a property survey would be highly recommended if you are purchasing a property here.
Subsidence can be a serious concern for homeowners, from devaluing the property to resulting in an unsafe and inhabitable home in worst cases. A property surveyor will be able to assess whether there is a risk of subsidence with regard to the property you are looking to purchase, allowing you to make an informed decision on the property prior to purchase.
Is Japanese Knotweed a Concern in Cambridge?
Japanese Knotweed was introduced to the UK in the 1840s as an ornamental plant, for Botanical Gardens such as Kew in London, and later sold commercially to households across the country. Today, Japanese Knotweed is considered a pest throughout the UK, with a reputation of being highly destructive and notoriously difficult to treat.
Although cases of Japanese Knotweed are not as severe as many major cities and other parts of the country, the city Cambridge is the worst affected area in Cambridgeshire, with 15 infestations within 4km in the city centre alone.
This unassuming plant can reduce the value of a property by up to 10% if found on the premises and some mortgage lenders will refuse a loan for a property where there is an infestation of the plant on the grounds. This is no surprise as Japanese Knotweed’s strong root system can damage the foundations and walls of properties.
Organising a survey on a home prior to purchase is essential for discovering if the plant is a concern around your potential Cambridge home. Your surveyor will be able to tell you if it is present on the land or if it is sighted on neighbouring property.
