Market watch: A trio of nasties with a side of coffee
We’ve got a mini series of defects in store this month!
The first is a pretty common find from a recent Level 2 survey. Here we have a typical Victorian property which would have originally had beautiful wooden windows that have been replaced by modern(ish) style UPVC. The issue we have here is that there is no lintel incorporated into the building above the window reveal. Originally when the building was constructed, there would have been no need to install a lintel as the original wooden window frames were actually a structural component, significantly stronger than the replacement modern style that has been fitted.
By removing the original structural windows the cowboy who replaced them has created a situation whereby all the brickwork above the window is no longer adequately supported and gravity represented by the red arrow does the rest… Note the shape of the top of the window. We can clearly see the slight bow shape? I’ve highlighted an exaggeration of the bowing effect on the 2nd photo. Note also the cracks in the mortar above the window and cowboy number 2’s efforts to fill in the damaged mortar bed. Left unchecked, at some point the lack of a lintel will cause this particular section of the house to collapse. Fortunately for the owner, installing a lintel isn’t a particularly expensive or complicated repair.
This is just 1 example of defects that often crop up on Level 2 home buyer surveys. If you’re considering buying a new home or investment property, do please get in contact and let us make sure your new home is both a safe place to live for you and your family and there are no unexpected and expensive bills around the corner.
Lunch
A fresh and modern take on the traditional café. Being located on the corner of Friar Lane – just a 2 minute walk from Nottingham city centre’s market square in one direction or a 2 minute brisk walk in the other direction towards the professional quarter where our Regent Street office is located is where you’ll find this little hidden gem.
Whilst the hungry surveyor has always been lucky and managed to get a table, at peak times you might have a short wait – yes it’s that popular.
The barista is always welcoming and friendly and the portions are generous.
Choices are a little bit limited, but they’ve gone down the smart route of doing a smaller number of things really, really, well, rather than getting embroiled in the trap that some establishments run in to of doing many, many, things to a so-so standard.
Being 2 minutes from the office, I confess this is a regular hangout for yours truly.
Oh… and one last thing… You simply need to try the carrot cake. Remember those portion sizes I mentioned? It’s a proverbial house brick on a plate. A very moist and tasty brick, granted. Very moreish, delicately spiced and you certainly know you’ve been well fed when you’re done.
Seriously… Try the carrot cake. You can thank me later.
Hungry Surveyors choice:
Brie and Salami Sun Dried Tomato Focaccia,
Orange and Cardamon cake
Oat milk Latte
Summary: Generous portions. Smoooth coffee (no not a typo – the extra “o” is warranted). Did I mention the carrot cake?
