FAQs About Surveying in Colchester
Our team has explored the surveying process in Colchester, bringing you the most up to date information. A property survey is a crucial step when buying a house and in Colchester, the Homebuyer Survey is the most popular survey type.
The area has a small amount of Japanese Knotweed infestations and although subsidence is evident in the area, the risks are also low.
What are the Most Popular Surveys in Colchester?
Our unique data revealed that the Homebuyers Survey was the most popular survey type for homebuyers in Colchester, organised primarily for detached and semi-detached houses. Although the building survey is a much more thorough survey, there were fewer of these organised across the board.
Over 56% of our users opted for a Homebuyer Survey for detached and semi-detached homes, whilst less than 20% opted for a Building Survey for the same types of properties. Overall, buyers of flats organised the least amount of surveys, with 4% of users arranging a homebuyers survey and less than 2% opting for a building survey for this type of home.
Terraced properties, often older homes from the Victorian era which would benefit from a Building Survey, saw just 5% of Building Surveys organised in Colchester. Our data found that 13% of our Colchester users opted for a homebuyer survey for this type of home.
When arranging a survey for your property purchase, the right survey type for the property you are buying will depend on a number of factors. More modern homes and those in good condition will be suitable for a Homebuyer Survey, whilst older or unusual homes or those in poor condition would benefit from a full Building Survey.
What Types of Historical Architecture Does Colchester Have?
There is a range of different types of architecture and property types across Colchester. Like much of Britain, there is a host of Victorian-era houses, from terraced houses to large family homes. Also on offer in the area are Edwardian properties, Georgian townhouses, Grade II cottages and modern developments.
Existing properties proved to be far more popular than new builds in Colchester, with 301 existing property sales in February 2021 alone, compared with just two sales of new build homes, according to the UK House Price Index.
British Listed Buildings reports that Colchester is home to 320 listed buildings. These are buildings that have a special historic or architectural interest and are protected to ensure the survival of their appearance and character.
Similarly, Conservation Areas are areas of either natural beauty or special architectural or historical interest. These 25 locations in Colchester are controlled and restricted to protect and improve the appearance of the area. Colchester Borough Council’s website states that if your property is located within a Conservation Area, this may affect any planning application and may also mean that certain works are restricted.
| Listed Buildings | 320 |
| Conservation Areas | 25 |
| New Build Sales* | 2 |
| Existing Property Sales* | 301 |
*Based on data for February 2021 in Colchester
Is Subsidence an Issue in Colchester?
Subsidence is dreaded by property homeowners, due to the catastrophic damage it can cause. Ground stability issues can lead to subsidence, causing the gradual downward settling or sinking of the ground’s surface and ultimately, the property itself. This can be a result of natural causes and weather changes or human activities, such as mining. This can decrease the value of the home and in severe cases, result in the home being condemned.
According to a map created by Geobear, which identifies the subsidence hotspots throughout the UK, Colchester does not have a significantly high risk of subsidence. Properties are at a lower risk of being impacted than other parts of the UK, however, to be sure the home you are looking to buy is unaffected, it is essential to enlist the services of a surveyor.
Compare My Move can connect you with an experienced surveyor in Colchester who can provide a search report detailing any ground stability concerns around the home you are looking to.
Is Japanese Knotweed a Concern in Colchester?
Japanese Knotweed is a destructive and invasive plant that is known to spread rapidly. Initially introduced to British botanical gardens as an ornamental plant, it is notoriously difficult and expensive to remove.
Japanese Knotweed can grow up to 10cm per day in the early summer months and has the ability to force its way through concrete and property foundations. Knotweed can cause properties to drop in value and there have even been cases where lenders have not approved mortgages for properties plagued with a severe infestation.
Reports of Knotweed are relatively low in Colchester, with a heatmap by invasive plant specialists, Enviornet revealing that there are 12 reported occurrences of Japanese Knotweed within 4km of the centre of Colchester.
A surveyor will be able to identify if Japanese Knotweed is present on the grounds of the property you are looking to buy or in neighbouring land. They will also be able to provide advice on how to proceed if it is found.
