Mortgage lender & solicitor approved Japanese knotweed reports
Japanese knotweed can be a barrier when it comes to buying a property, particularly if your mortgage lender or solicitor requires formal confirmation that the plant is not present.
Our specialist buyers’ survey provides a detailed and professional assessment of the property, with a fast-turnaround report that meets legal requirements.
Why might home buyers need a specialist survey?
Japanese knotweed is a highly invasive plant that can cause damage to buildings, disrupt local ecosystems, devalue properties and cause huge complications during the buying process. Whilst Japanese knotweed doesn’t automatically stop a purchase or a mortgage application, it can cause serious delays or even rejections if not handled properly.
We’re increasingly contacted by private residential buyers who:
- Have been told to get a specialist report to prove the absence of Japanese knotweed by their solicitor.
- Are buying a property where the TA6 form states “Not Known” regarding Japanese knotweed.
- Are dealing with a mortgage lender who insists on a survey by a qualified Japanese knotweed specialist.
- Simply want peace of mind before investing in a house.
In most cases, there’s no knotweed at all, but buyers, lenders and solicitors still need official confirmation before moving forward, particularly in cases where the buyers have not confirmed the absence of knotweed in their TA6 form.
What a specialist Japanese knotweed survey includes
This is a professional survey, which is carried out by a qualified specialist, designed to give you confidence and peace of mind. This survey is different from a regular Japanese knotweed survey, due to the fast turnaround and depth of report.
You’ll receive:
A non-invasive, visual site inspection carried out by a CSJK-qualified surveyor (Certified Surveyor of Japanese Knotweed).
Assessment of the entire property and land within 3 metres of all boundaries, in line with legal disclosure and mortgage lender requirements.
A detailed written report, including site photos, summary of surveyed areas, findings and conclusion.
A statement of qualifications and compliance (suitable for lenders and legal use).
Fast turnaround, with reports generally issued between 1-3 working days to ensure minimal interruption to the buying process.
We are full members of the Property Care Association (PCA), and all surveys are conducted by qualified professionals who have years of experience in the identification and removal of Japanese knotweed.
What happens if Japanese knotweed is found?
Very occasionally, Japanese knotweed can be discovered during the inspection. If this happens, we’ll provide a clear explanation of our findings and outline our recommendations on what to do next. You’ll receive a detailed report stating the location, scale and severity of the infestation, and we can also provide a quote for a full removal plan if you choose to move forward with buying the property.
We can provide:
- A clear, tailored treatment proposal
- A Japanese knotweed insurance-backed guarantee for the removal of knotweed
- Ongoing support and provision of written documentation for your mortgage lender or solicitor.
Many mortgage lenders are happy to still proceed with the mortgage, as long as a professional treatment plan is in place.
Book Your specialist buyers’ knotweed survey today
Not only do our team have years of experience in identifying and removing Japanese knotweed, but they also have a huge amount of in-depth knowledge about the property-buying process, and how Japanese knotweed can disrupt this.
To find out more about our specialist buyers’ survey and for pricing information, contact our friendly team today!
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this specialist survey report for legal or mortgage purposes?
Yes, our reports are suitable for use by mortgage lenders, solicitors and home insurance providers. They are carried out by CSJK qualified surveyors and include all the necessary documentation.
What’s the difference between this specialist Japanese knotweed survey and your regular Japanese knotweed survey?
Our regular Japanese knotweed surveys are primarily for homeowners and commercial clients requiring treatment quotes. This, however, is a paid, independent survey for buyers who need a fast, standalone report, usually without treatment involved.
Will the survey affect my property purchase?
No, the survey itself will not prevent you from buying the property. However, if Japanese knotweed is found, your solicitor or mortgage lender may require a treatment plan before you can proceed with the purchase. We can help you manage this process with a fast treatment quote, expert removal and our insurance-backed guarantee.
Will Japanese knotweed stop me from getting a mortgage?
Japanese knotweed can sometimes affect mortgage approval if it has caused significant structural damage. However, most lenders will proceed if there’s a professional management plan, with an insurance-backed guarantee in place.
What should I do if the TA6 form says “Not Known” for Japanese knotweed?
If a seller’s TA6 form says “Not Known’ in response to the question, “Is the property affected by Japanese knotweed?”, you should arrange a specialist buyers’ survey. This will confirm whether or not Japanese knotweed is present and provide a formal report that you can share with your solicitor or mortgage lender.
How much is a specialist buyer’s survey?
The cost of our specialist buyers’ survey can vary depending on the size and location of the property, but we aim to keep our pricing competitive and transparent. For a quick quote and to check availability, give us a call today on 023 8251 2752 – we’ll be happy to help!
