The Most Common Issues Missed by First-Time Buyers

Adam Warren • 10 June 2025

Buying your first home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. While it’s easy to fall in love with a property's charm and potential, many first-time buyers unknowingly overlook serious structural and cosmetic issues. Without a professional survey, these hidden problems can become costly regrets in the long run.

At Knott Brothers, we help buyers across Leicestershire and beyond make informed property decisions. In this blog, we explore some of the most common problems that first-time buyers tend to miss — and explain how a RICS Home Survey or Accredited Snagging Survey can help protect your investment.

1. Damp and Mould

One of the most frequently overlooked issues is damp. Whether it's rising damp, condensation, or penetrating damp, the signs aren't always visible, especially if they've been covered with fresh paint or wallpaper. Damp can lead to mould, timber decay, and poor indoor air quality. A professional RICS surveyor knows what to look for and where to look, ensuring any signs of damp are identified and reported.

2. Structural Movement or Subsidence

New buyers often overlook subtle signs of subsidence or structural movement in a property. Cracks in walls, uneven floors or sticking doors and windows may appear harmless, but they could indicate serious problems. A RICS Level 3 Survey provides a detailed analysis of a building’s structure, helping you avoid unexpected repair bills.

3. Roofing Issues

Roofs are expensive to repair or replace, and yet they’re one of the most neglected parts of a home inspection by inexperienced buyers. Missing tiles, failing flashing, or sagging structures are often missed without a trained eye. Our surveyors conduct thorough roof assessments as part of both Level 2 and Level 3 RICS Surveys, as well as Snagging Surveys for new builds.

4. Plumbing and Heating Problems

Taps that don’t run properly, radiators that don’t heat evenly, or poorly installed pipework might not be noticed until you move in. In new builds, these issues can arise from rushed or inconsistent workmanship. That’s why our Accredited Snagging Surveys include functional checks of key plumbing systems and thermal imaging of the heating system.

5. Hidden Snags in New Builds

New homes may appear pristine, but underneath the surface, there can be a range of imperfections—incorrectly installed fittings, uneven finishes, or incomplete work. An Accredited Snagging Survey from Knott Brothers identifies both cosmetic and functional issues, allowing you to present a comprehensive list of faults to your developer while still under warranty.

6. Electrical Safety Concerns

Outdated wiring or poor electrical work is often invisible to buyers. Our surveys include an inspection of visible electrics, with transparent reporting on any safety issues or signs of non-compliance.

Why First-Time Buyers Should Never Skip a Survey

Even if a property looks flawless on the surface, professional surveys uncover what you can’t see. A relatively small upfront investment in a RICS or Accredited Snagging Survey can save you thousands in repair costs — and provide you with the confidence to proceed. At Knott Brothers, all our surveyors are RICS and/or RPSA qualified and offer clear, jargon-free reports within 24 hours. Based in Leicester and covering surrounding areas, we’re here to help you buy with peace of mind.

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