Ask a surveyor for a dated repair priority list, then have contractors price the same scope so you can compare like for like.
Start with the roof, water and services
Ask the surveyor to identify how the roof, walls, drainage and services work together. For a village house, find out which rooms can be kept dry and heated, where water and power enter and whether the waste arrangements work for your intended use. Record anything that needs opening up before a reliable quote can be given.
A stone base or traditional clay finish can tell you something about how the house was built. Ask why the surface is damaged and whether there is an active moisture problem. The finish you see is only one part of the condition of the wall.
Define the first phase before you buy
| Work package | What to ask for |
|---|---|
| Weather and safety | Roof and drainage priorities, risks and what needs a specialist check |
| A usable base | One warm room, a working bathroom, reliable water and safe power |
| Changes to the building | A professional view of the design, records, approvals and service connections |
| Later finishes | Separate prices for rooms or features that can wait |
Agree how you will manage the work from the UK
Ask a local architect or other qualified professional which approvals apply before you commit to alterations. Include materials, access, disposal, taxes and who supplies each item in the written scope. Set a way to approve changes in writing and agree what you will see before each stage is paid.
Plan for site visits at decision points and set aside time and money for travel, keys, security and temporary accommodation. Put the first phase and an allowance for unknown work into your overall purchase budget before comparing it with a property you can use sooner.