Buying a property in Wimbledon - Surveyors Perspective

 Wimbledon

Wimbledon is a popular and desirable location in the London borough of Merton. It is internationally famous and renowned for the prestigious Wimbledon Tennis Championships. The area is well suited for property buyers seeking a blend of city convenience and village charm. The area boasts a variety of properties, from Victoria terraces to modern apartments, catering for diverse preferences and lifestyles.  

Wimbledon is divided into key district areas, each with its own character. Wimbledon Village offers a more traditional feel with boutique shops and cafes, while South Wimbledon features more contemporary housing and excellent transport links. Wimbledon Park is ideal for families, with its proximity to green spaces and reputable schools. 

The history of Wimbledon

Wimbledon's origins as a small village can be traced back to the Iron Age with its first significant growth occurring in the 19th century. It was during this time that Wimbledon began to transform into a residential area attracting those who sought a serene lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of central London. 

The 20th century marked a turning point for Wimbledon as it became a popular destination for the wealthy. The area’s affluence was reflected in the high property prices and the development of grand houses and manors, many of which were owned by British royalty at various points in history. 

Wimbledon is distinctively split into two areas ‘the village’ and ‘the town’. The village centred around the High Street retains much of its historic charm and is considered one of London’s most desirable residential spots. The town developed later, built around the railway station that came with the Industrial Revolution and the subsequent population boom. 

Properties in Wimbledon

Much of Wimbledon’s housing stock is Victorian and Edwardian, in a mix of styles from traditional terraces to grand detached houses. With their distinctive architecture, bay windows and often well-preserved features they exclude character and elegance. Many of these homes have been lovingly restored and updated to meet modern living standards.

Wimbledon has been developed over the years with areas of post-war housing and more recent contemporary houses and apartments. 

Surveying in Wimbledon

Like many other areas in London, Wimbledon experienced the devastating impact of aerial bombing during the Second World War. Consequently, some homes in the area sustained bomb damage or were destroyed. As a result, some of the properties we see today show signs of movement and the aftereffects of the bombings.

It is understood that the All England Club was repurposed to support the war effort by being set up as a civil defence camp and also providing some agricultural use. Wimbledon’s historic centre court also took a direct hit from a 500-pound German bomb. 

According to ‘Wimbledon, Merton & Morden at war 1939-45’, more than 350 bombs fell on Wimbledon during the war resulting in the deaths of 150 residents. Approximately 12,000 houses were damaged and 810 were destroyed, reflecting the widespread impact of the conflict on the local community.

A Home Survey or Building Survey will provide advice on any building movement evident and state whether it appears historic, possibly war-related, or if it is likely to be progressive movement requiring further investigation, remedial work and expenditure. 

Subsoil

Much of Wimbledon is built on London Clay which is susceptible to shrinkage during prolonged dry periods and swelling during wet periods. This can cause movement to buildings, particularly after a long dry spell. 

The older properties in the area will generally have shallower foundations compared with more modern dwellings and are therefore at increased risk of subsoil-related movement. A Home Survey or Building Survey by a qualified chartered surveyor will comment on any signs of foundation-related movement affecting the building and the associated risks. 

Flood Risk

The majority of housing in Wimbledon is identified at a low risk of river-related flooding. However, some roads are at high risk of surface water flooding but this varies across the area. When purchasing a property your legal adviser will carry out searches and advise of such risks. 

Our Level 2 Home Survey and Level 3 Building Survey will also identify if the property is in a high-risk area. 

Radon

Some parts of Surrey and London are affected by Radon gas. Radon is a radioactive gas, we can't see, smell or taste. It comes from the rocks and soil found everywhere in the UK and you need special equipment to detect it. The radon level in the air we breathe outside is very low but can be higher inside buildings. Most homes in Wimbledon are in the lowest band of radon potential and considered low risk. This will be checked as part of our desktop research.

Summary

Wimbledon and the surrounding areas are a great place to buy a property due to the historic character, green spaces, well regarded schools, good transport links and local amenities. When purchasing any property make sure you instruct a Chartered Surveyor to carry out a survey before purchase to protect your investment.