FAQs About Surveying in Ipswich
Our Compare My Move team have done all the hard work for you, answering all your questions regarding the surveying process in Ipswich. Our unique data revealed that the homebuyers report is the most popular survey type amongst our Ipswich users.
We also discovered that some properties in the area will be at risk of Japanese Knotweed highlighting the importance of arranging a property survey. However, it appears that subsidence is not something to be concerned about for the majority of the area.
What Are the Most Popular Surveys in Ipswich?
According to our surveying data, approximately 65.21% of our users in Ipswich require a homebuyers survey when buying a new home, making it the most popular survey type in the area. Out of those users, 30.43% requested a homebuyers report for detached properties and 19.57% for semi-detached properties. As the homebuyers survey is designed for properties under 80-years of age, it’s not surprising to see it as the most popular type. It is an extremely common property survey that is suitable for most property types.
Around 34% of our users chose the more thorough survey type in Ipswich, the building survey. Movers who required this type of property survey were mostly purchasing detached homes with a majority of 17.39%. As the homebuyers report is better suited to flats and apartments, it’s not surprising to see that 0% of users required a building survey for this type of home. If the property you’re interested in is over 80-years of age or is unusually constructed, it is advised that you arrange a building survey to ensure a more detailed assessment is made.
A property survey is a vital stage in the buying process. If major defects are uncovered in the report, you can either use the information to negotiate the house price with the seller or simply walk away from the transaction. A property showing signs of subsidence, Japanese Knotweed and other issues will often be considered as an unworthy investment.
What Types of Historical Architecture Does Ipswich Have?
Ipswich is often a popular destination for movers and tourists alike as it clearly displays its 1,500 years of history through the beautiful parks, waterfront and architecture. There are plenty of spacious Tudor houses available, grand period homes and even some modern apartments in the centre of town.
Many movers in the area seem to prefer the period houses available, with around 157 existing properties sold in Ipswich during February 2021 alone. In the same month, 0 new-build homes were sold. However, if you’re a first-time buyer looking to step onto the property ladder, it would be worth researching new developments in Ipswich as there are a number of beneficial Help to Buy schemes that could help you through the process.
During our research, we discovered that there are 15 conservation areas in Ipswich that are currently designated by the Local Planning Authority under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. Due to their special architectural or historic interest, properties within these areas will be protected by the local council to ensure they are preserved. If you purchase a home in a conservation area, you will likely be limited on what work you can do to the home, affecting future plans.
Similarly, there are over 600 listed buildings in the town that have been deemed to have special architectural or historic interest, compiled by Historic England on behalf of the Secretary of State. This list covers a range of buildings from Medieval churches to Victorian residences. If you are considering purchasing a listed building you will, again, be restricted on what work you can plan to improve the home. You will also need to arrange a specialist survey called a Listed Building Survey, as a typical property survey will not suffice.
| Listed Buildings | 600+ |
| Conservation Areas | 15 |
| New Build Sales* | 0 |
| Existing Property Sales* | 157 |
*Based on data for February 2021
Is Subsidence an Issue in Ipswich?
Subsidence can be a serious issue for many homeowners and has the potential to greatly devalue a property. Subsidence occurs when the ground underneath a building sinks or collapses, taking part of the foundations with it. This often makes the property very difficult to sell as remedying the issue can be costly. Luckily for our Ipswich movers, subsidence is often a problem most commonly found in larger cities and urban areas.
As you can see on Geobear’s UK Subsidence Map, Ipswich has a low risk of subsidence. One of the biggest factors that can lead to subsidence is increased pressure on the ground. This is why many cities such as London are often prone to subsidence as the many buildings and condensed pieces of land weaken and dry out the soil beneath, causing it to compact. Whilst Ipswich is a fairly popular town, it is far less likely to experience this issue.
However, you should not underestimate the importance of arranging a property survey as any signs of subsidence or other ground stability issues could greatly devalue a building. The report will highlight any damage caused or potential problems that could occur in the future, making the property seem like an unworthy investment. If this is the case, you can then decide to walk away from the sale or negotiate the asking price with the seller.
Is Japanese Knotweed a Concern in Ipswich?
Another issue for many homeowners across the UK is Japanese Knotweed. Japanese Knotweed is an intrusive and destructive plant that can force its way through drains and concrete. Its presence can greatly devalue a home and make it difficult to sell. The removal process is fairly difficult as the roots are notoriously formidable and strong - this is why you must never attempt to remove the plant yourself, but instead contact a professional.
According to Environet’s Japanese Knotweed Heatmap, Ipswich has a moderate risk of experiencing Japanese Knotweed infestations. Within 4km of the centre of town, there are around 36 recorded occurrences of the plant. If you suspect the property you’re viewing may be infested, it’s essential you arrange a property survey to ensure there is evidence of its existence. A professional and qualified surveyor should identify signs of Japanese Knotweed and any damage it may have caused.
Again, if the destructive plant is found on the premises, do not attempt to remove it yourself as you could cause even more damage. The removal process is very difficult and so you should hire a professional remover - this can cost upwards of £3,000. Once it has been successfully removed, you will have to check the area every year for 5 years to ensure it doesn’t return.
