I am buying a property that was built in the 1980s. Should I check the condition of the central heating?

Of course. Other than the structure of the building, the central heating system is the most expensive component in any property and you are deemed to buy a property in the full knowledge of its state and condition.

I would always advise a purchaser to have the central heating system inspected by a central heating engineer prior to exchange of contracts in order to ensure it is in good working order.

Should your Engineer’s Report condemn the system then you would have identified that it needs either replacing or substantial repair, before making a legal commitment to purchasing the property. This would enable you to re-negotiate the price.

Should you complete the purchase and then arrange for the system to be serviced only to find out that the system is condemned, it would then be too late for you to claim any recompense against the seller, or re-negotiate the purchase price.

* Emyr Pierce is Managing Partner of Emyr Pierce Solicitors in Rhiwbina, Cardiff, Western Mail Conveyancer of the Year, specialising in Domestic and Commercial Property. Contact www.emyrpierce.co.uk or email law@emyrpierce.co.uk