Bristol Conveyancing - a risk of radon gas exposure

Radon Gas Periodic Table

Conveyancing Solicitors in Bristol often find that local searches show that local areas are at a higher than average risk of being affected by radon gas. Therefore when representing the buyers of a substantial property on Lampeter Road in the popular Westbury-on-Trym area of Bristol, Fridaysmove Conveyancing Lawyer Dawn Thomas was concerned when her search with Bristol city council showed the house as being in an area where about 5% of houses were potentially at or above ‘action level’ (ie where remedial work could be required.)

Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas, which occurs more in some parts of the country depending upon the local geology. It can build up in some homes, and therefore represents a potential health hazard. Bristol and North Somerset experience higher levels of the gas, but it rarely causes problems to house-owners. More recently-built properties will incorporate design features to prevent any build-up, and tests can be carried out if required on older properties to see if any remedial works are required.

If a local search indicates that a property is an affected area, then Bristol Conveyancing Solicitors acting for purchasers will have to make further enquiries from the property owner to find out if any tests have been carried out, and any recommended works completed.

More detailed information about radon can be obtained from the British geological survey website.

The buyers, Mr & Mrs T, had agreed to pay in excess of £400k, and the agent’s office at 28 High Street, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, Avon provided the property details. The sellers’ Solicitors were Bristol firm Lyons Rounsfell.

The Land Registry's title entries showed that the current owners had more than one mortgage outstanding. Where property prices have gone down, owners who have borrowed substantially can find that they owe more on their mortgage than they can sell for, and they are in a negative equity situation. This is more likely to be the case where there is more than one mortgage. Conveyancing Solicitors acting for someone buying a house will naturally want some reassurance that the seller will be able to pay off all lending out of the proceeds of sale, as otherwise lenders won't release the property from their mortgage. It is therefore best to ask for confirmation that the vendors Conveyancing Solicitors have checked before exchange of contracts that there will not be any problem on completion. The purchase was subsequently completed to the clients' satisfaction.

Choosing a Solicitor with relevant knowledge of Bristol is important when buying a property in the area. Get an instant Quote for Conveyancing in Bristol or call us now for more information, on 0330 660 0286.