In message , Mike Mitchell
writes
On Thu, 16 Sep 2004 15:23:36 +0100, Another Dave
wrote:

IMM wrote:

That price is so vague it is not worth considering.



Let's remember what the OP asked:

"What is the cost of errecting a new traditionally built bog-standard
detached house with two to three bedrooms? I'm talking ball-park here."

Ball-park is what he asks for and that's what he got.

And I'm happy enough with it! That is not to say I don't welcome all
the other prices given, as I know that costs will vary greatly
depending on many factors. The reason I asked was that if the
underpinning turns out to have been botched, or it needs (will need)
underpinning again in five or ten years, or the house is damp or
because of a host of other reasons it is not a viable property long
term, it may be worth pulling it down and rebuilding, given that the
plot size is fairly generous.

MM

Mike,

If underpinning was done correctly, it will have been supervised by a
structural engineer and a certificate of satisfaction, or similar,
issued. You can ask to see it.

If it cant be found, or doesnt exist, you can get a structural engineer
to inspect the property on your behalf. He may make some recommendations
in various areas, and will/should comment on the existing underpinning,
(make him aware of it). Armed with this, you can make a decision. I have
bought houses that have been underpinned, that have needed underpinning,
and that have looked like they might need underpinning. None have
involved any big deal.

Damp is also generally not a big deal. Most surveyors will "find" some
damp in any older house, and most of the "specialist" firms who inspect
after the survey will confirm that a damp proof course is needed.

What you must remember is that these people generally dont find damp,
they merely find an electrical resistance with their machines which
suggests moisture. Where it comes from, and how, they generally have no
idea, but as surveyors are able to satisfy the lenders, and their
insurance companies, by recommending a specialist inspection, this is
what they do.

Whether there is serious damp or not is usually a moot point. If you are
going to walk away from a house with some damp, (or even knock them down
to rebuild), you will probably be walking away from a lot of houses.

--
Richard Faulkner