FAQs About Surveying in Luton
The team at Compare My Move work hard to answer any questions you may have when it comes to your home move to Luton. Our data revealed that the most popular survey type in Luton is a homebuyers survey, organised for semi-detached homes more than any other property type.
Our research found that although levels of both Japanese Knotweed and Subsidence are lower than central London, Luton properties are still at risk of either. Hiring an experienced and trusted surveyor to conduct the correct survey for the type of property you are looking to buy is a key part of the house buying process.
What are the Most Popular Surveys in Luton?
According to our data, the most popular survey type in Luton is a homebuyers report, arranged for semi-detached properties more than any other property type. In comparison, less than half of Compare My Move users (14.29%) arranged a building survey on the same type of property.
Following semi-detached properties, 17.86% of our users opted for a homebuyer survey for terraced properties, 10.71% for detached homes and just 4.76% for flats. Building surveys were organised far less in the area, with 5.95% of users arranging one for a terraced house, 7.14% for a detached home and just 1.19% for flats.
It is worth noting that although building surveys are more expensive than a homebuyer survey, if the property is older, in poor or questionable condition or made of unconventional materials, a building survey is essential. For example, many of the terraced homes in Luton will date back to the Victorian era. These will not only be over 100 years old, but they will have been renovated over time. A building survey will be able to give a thorough overview of the condition of the property and any concerns or issues which will need to be addressed.
What Types of Historical Architecture Does Luton Have?
Luton is perhaps best known throughout the UK as the location for one of London’s international airports. However, architecturally Luton has so much more to offer and is steeped in history. According to Luton council, the town has 160 non-statutory locally listed buildings, recognised for their local architectural and historic interest, in addition to their contribution to Luton’s character and identity.
Luton also has three conservation areas for commercial use, which include the town centre, Plaiters’ Lea: The Hat District and High Town Road. There are also two primarily residential conservation areas in Rothesay and Luton South. If you are buying a property in this area, due to their status as conservation areas there may be restrictions on what you can do with the property so make sure you are clear on this prior to purchase.
Outside of listed buildings and conservation areas, there is a range of property types available across Luton. From red-brick terraced houses and large Victorian homes to recent new builds and modern flats. The area even has traditional thatched cottages on the market from time to time.
Judging from Land Registry data for the month of January 2020, it appears “existing” or older properties are more popular among Luton homebuyers than new builds. There were 151 sales of “existing” properties, with just 11 new build sales in the same time frame.
| Listed Buildings | 160 |
| Conservation Areas | 3 |
| New Build Sales* | 11 |
| Existing Property Sales* | 151 |
Is Subsidence an Issue in Luton?
When purchasing a property in Luton, you will need to ensure the property doesn’t suffer from subsidence or is at risk of ground instability. Subsidence happens when the ground beneath a property compresses or “sinks” creating an unbalanced foundation. One of the main causes of subsidence is clay soil, found throughout the UK, which shrinks, cracks and even shifts during changes in the weather.
According to Geobear’s UK Subsidence Map, there is a smattering of subsidence reports in and around Luton, but certainly not to the concern degree as central London. Nevertheless, with evidence of these issues in the area, a survey is highly recommended to ensure that no damage has been caused to the property by ground movement.
For those looking at purchasing an older or unconventional home in the Luton area, a full building survey can give you a comprehensive review of the condition of the home, flagging any concerns regarding subsidence.
Is Japanese Knotweed a Concern in Luton?
Japanese Knotweed is a hardy and destructive plant that can grow through concrete, property foundations, walls and drains, causing a host of problems for homeowners.
Japanese Knotweed was initially introduced to the UK as an ornamental plant for botanical gardens, primarily Kew Gardens in London, and later sold commercially. It has since been deemed highly problematic and can impact the value of your property. There have even been instances of lenders refusing mortgages for properties with infestations of the plant.
Environet’s Japanese Knotweed Heatmap revealed that although the cases of the plant were not nearly as concerning as those in central London and the surrounding areas, there are a number of cases evident in the Luton area.
Luton was found to have 26 infestations of Japanese Knotweed within a 4km area, far more than nearby locations outside of London. With this in mind, it is essential that attention is paid to your surveying report to ensure there are no infestations or sightings of the plant on the property you are about to purchase.
