Useful Websites and Links

Whitecroft is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), who are a leading professional body working in the public interest to advance knowledge, uphold standards, and inspire current and future professionals.

If you are buying a house or a flat in the UK, a house survey – also known as a home survey or property survey – is highly recommended before you buy the property. Here, the RICS tell you what a house survey is, why you should get one from an RICS firm, and what it might cost.

Rightmove is the UK's leading online property portal, connecting buyers and renters with estate agents, letting agents, and new home developers. It offers a platform for advertising properties for sale and to rent, as well as commercial and student properties.

Zoopla is a UK-based online property portal that allows users to search for homes to buy or rent, as well as providing information about property values, local area data, and estate agents.

​Building regulations in the UK are a set of minimum standards for the design and construction of buildings, ensuring they are safe, healthy, and high-performing. These regulations, developed and approved by the Government and Parliament, cover various aspects including structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, energy performance, and more. They aim to protect people's safety and welfare, conserve fuel and power, and promote sustainable development. 

Planning permission is the formal approval needed from your local planning authority (LPA) before starting certain types of building, construction, or significant changes to land or buildings. It's essentially a way for the local authority to ensure developments are in line with local planning regulations and don't negatively impact the surrounding environment or community. 

NHBC, or the National House Building Council, is the UK's leading independent provider of warranty and insurance for new-build homes. They offer a range of services to protect homeowners and promote high-quality house building standards.

Snagging is the process of identifying and reporting minor defects or imperfections in a new build home after construction is complete or a newly refurbished property. It involves a thorough inspection to ensure everything functions as it should and the finish meets the agreed-upon standard. These snags can range from cosmetic issues like paintwork problems to more significant issues like faulty plumbing or electrical installations

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is UK legislation that provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes related to shared walls, boundary walls, and excavations near neighboring buildings. It applies to England and Wales. The Act requires building owners to notify their neighbours of proposed works and provides a mechanism for resolving disagreements.