As summer fades into our memories and autumn takes hold, the challenges of condensation in homes once again loom. And it’s not just a cosmetic issue. Since it can cause damp and mould, condensation can also damage properties and be a health hazard, which means it will be an issue high up on a surveyor’s checklist when you are selling. It’s even more important for landlords who are set to face tighter restrictions around such hazards with the introduction of Awaab’s Law.
To ensure your buyers don’t have a nasty surprise, and to put a smile on the surveyor’s face, here are a few ways to impress your surveyor with some tried and tested ventilation techniques that will mean your property ticks all the right boxes.
What surveyors will look for
Surveyors will have their eyes (and nose) open when assessing your property for condensation problems. While you might have a chance to wipe the condensation off windows and walls before a surveyor comes to inspect your property, the presence of damp and mould is harder to eradicate. Peeling paint or wallpaper, black mould growth and musty smells are all signs that condensation might be damaging your property.
Open windows and clear vents
It may be cold outside when the surveyor visits but cracking open a window to let some air in and the condensation out will show that you are aware of the need to create an airflow through your property. It will also show that the windows are able to be opened and closed properly. You could add window vents as a more permanent option. Air vents in your property should also be clear to allow airflow.
Installed and working extractor fans
Most of the moisture that causes condensation comes from kitchens and bathrooms since this is where the most intense water vapour is created. Opening windows will help. Other tactics, such as running showers for a shorter time and wiping down walls after bathroom use or putting lids on pans in the kitchen, will reduce the amount of vapour that escapes.
While these are good habits, a better option for your surveyor to see is the presence of extractor fans in bathrooms and extractor hoods in kitchens that are sufficient to extract the amount of vapour that is being created in that room. If these aren’t present or aren’t working properly, they are a quick and easy fit that will impress.
Washing drying outside
Does your surveyor really care where you dry your washing? Yes, they will. An outside airer or washing line in use shows that you appreciate that another major cause of condensation is from drying washing inside. If you must dry washing inside, then do so in a small, well-ventilated room and add a dehumidifier to draw out the moisture.
Clear roof ventilation tiles to allow airflow
Ensuring your loft is well ventilated is something else that your surveyor will be checking out. You may have decluttered, but your loft is now full of boxed items ready to move. These could be blocking the air flow of the roof ventilation tiles in your loft. These are crucial to a sufficient airflow in your loft, so ensure that they are clear so that they can work properly.
Up-to-date insulation
Insulation will also be high on a surveyor’s list since it also improves the energy efficiency of your property. Effective, up-to-date loft, wall and other insulation helps you better control condensation since the variation in temperatures between your property and outside will be reduced.
For more information on how we can assist you on your sales journey, please contact one of our branches in Essex, London or Hertfordshire today. We also offer a free and instant online valuation to give you an idea of how much your home could be worth on the current market.
