Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Croydon

Property Market Trends in Croydon

Croydon, located in South London, is one of the largest commercial districts outside Central London, offering a dynamic property market that caters to a diverse range of buyers, including commuters, families, and investors.

Urban Development and Regeneration

• Croydon Town Centre: The town centre, particularly around East Croydon station, is undergoing significant regeneration, with new developments offering modern apartments and retail spaces, attracting young professionals and investors.
• West Croydon and South Croydon: These areas are popular for their more affordable housing options, including a mix of Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, appealing to first-time buyers and families.

Suburban Appeal

• Purley and Coulsdon: Known for their spacious detached homes and green spaces, these suburbs are attractive to families looking for a quieter lifestyle while maintaining accessibility to London.
• Shirley and Sanderstead: These areas offer a range of property types, from traditional houses to modern developments, and are favoured for their good schools and community atmosphere.

Growth and Investment

• Addiscombe and Thornton Heath: With more affordable housing compared to other parts of Croydon, these neighbourhoods are seeing investment and development, making them appealing to a variety of buyers.
• Norwood and Crystal Palace: Bordering the borough of Croydon, these areas are popular for their unique character, independent shops, and proximity to Crystal Palace Park.

Influencing Factors

• Transportation Links: Excellent transport connections, including tram services and trains to Central London, enhance Croydon’s appeal for commuters.
• Economic Development: The presence of large retail centres, business parks, and the planned Westfield shopping centre redevelopment contribute to the local economy and property market.
• Diverse Community and Amenities: Croydon’s cultural diversity, along with a range of amenities including Boxpark, arts venues, and parks, adds to its attractiveness as a place to live.

Staying updated on Croydon’s property market trends is crucial for those looking to engage with a market characterized by its ongoing development, connectivity, and affordability within Greater London.

Sources

• Rightmove: Croydon Property Market
• MyLondon: Croydon News

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Croydon

Croydon’s property market is diverse, featuring a mix of Victorian and Edwardian terraces, post-war estates, and modern apartment complexes, reflecting its growth and urbanisation.

Common Types of Properties

• Victorian and Edwardian Terraces: Predominant in neighbourhoods like Addiscombe and South Croydon, these homes often feature period charm but may require modernisation to improve energy efficiency and amenities.
• Post-War Semi-Detached and Detached Houses: Built during the 20th century’s mid-period, these properties usually offer good space but might benefit from updates in terms of heating systems and insulation.
• Modern Apartments and Housing Developments: Newer constructions in and around Croydon’s centre provide contemporary living options, though it’s vital to assess the build quality and energy efficiency.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Damp and Insulation: Older properties can be susceptible to damp issues, necessitating improvements in damp-proofing and insulation.
• Roofing Condition: The condition of the roof in both period and mid-century properties is crucial, as repairs or replacements can be significant expenses.
• Subsidence: Some areas in Croydon, especially those with clay soils, may be more prone to subsidence, so a thorough structural survey is recommended.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: A comprehensive property survey is crucial for identifying any hidden structural issues that could impact the property’s value and necessitate future repairs.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): An EPC provides an overview of the property’s energy efficiency and highlights areas for potential improvement.
• Local Planning and Development: Being aware of local planning developments is important, as these can influence property values and the quality of living in the area.

Understanding the structural conditions and common issues in Croydon’s properties will assist buyers in making informed decisions, ensuring that their property choices align with their expectations and investment goals.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) – Helping You Choose The Right Survey
• Croydon Council – Planning and Building Control

Local Amenities in Croydon

Croydon, a large town in South London, England, is known for its vibrant shopping districts, diverse community, and cultural activities. It has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, enhancing its appeal as a residential and business hub.

Food and Drink

• Diverse Dining: Croydon offers a wide range of dining options, including independent cafes, international cuisine restaurants, and traditional British pubs.
• Boxpark Croydon: A food and cultural hub built from shipping containers, hosting a variety of street food vendors and hosting regular events.

Shopping

• Centrale & Whitgift Shopping Centres: These centres are the heart of Croydon’s shopping scene, offering a variety of high-street brands, department stores, and eateries.
• Local Markets: Surrey Street Market, one of the oldest street markets in the UK, provides fresh produce and various goods.

Health and Fitness

• Leisure Centres and Gyms: Facilities such as Waddon Leisure Centre and South Norwood Leisure Centre offer swimming pools, gym equipment, and fitness classes.
• Parks and Green Spaces: Croydon has several parks, including Lloyd Park and Wandle Park, offering ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Cultural Venues

• Fairfield Halls: A premier arts and entertainment centre that hosts concerts, theatre productions, and exhibitions.
• Museums and Galleries: The Museum of Croydon showcases the area’s history, and there are several galleries featuring local and international art.

Education

• Schools: Croydon has a wide range of educational institutions, including primary, secondary, and independent schools.
• Further Education: Croydon College offers a variety of courses and apprenticeships.

Transport Links

• Rail Services: Croydon is well-served by public transport, with East Croydon and West Croydon stations offering trains to central London, the South Coast, and other destinations.
• Tram Network: The Tramlink service provides convenient local transport around Croydon and to neighbouring areas.

Healthcare

• Hospitals and Clinics: Croydon University Hospital is among several healthcare facilities in the town, supported by a network of GP practices and health clinics.

Croydon’s amenities, combined with its rapid development and excellent transport links, make it an increasingly popular choice for residents and businesses.

Sources

• Croydon Council: Libraries, Leisure and Culture
• MyLondon: Croydon News

Commute and Transportation Options in Croydon

Croydon, a large town in South London, offers a range of transportation options, making it a hub for commuters and residents in the area:

Public Transport

• Train Services: Croydon is well-served by several railway stations, including East Croydon and West Croydon. East Croydon Station is one of the busiest non-terminal stations in London, providing frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, Brighton, Gatwick Airport, and other destinations. These services are operated by Southern, Thameslink, and Gatwick Express.
• Trams: The Croydon Tramlink, a light rail system, connects the town with surrounding areas like Wimbledon, Beckenham, and New Addington.
• Bus Services: Croydon has an extensive bus network, one of the largest in London, connecting to various parts of the city and surrounding suburbs. These services are managed by Transport for London (TfL).

Car and Motorway Access

• Major Roads: Major roads serving Croydon include the A23, leading to Central London and Brighton, and the A232, connecting to Sutton and Orpington. The M25 motorway is also easily accessible, providing links to a wider road network.
• Parking: Croydon offers various parking options, including multi-storey car parks and on-street parking, particularly in the town centre.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Companies: Numerous taxi firms operate in Croydon, offering services within the town and to destinations such as airports and Central London.
• Uber: Uber and other ride-sharing services are widely available, providing convenient travel options for residents and visitors.

Cycling and Walking

• Cycling: There are cycling routes in Croydon, and the council is working to improve cycling infrastructure as part of broader sustainable travel initiatives.
• Walking: The town centre is pedestrian-friendly, with many amenities, shopping centres, and eateries within walking distance.

Future Developments

• Transport Infrastructure Improvements: Ongoing developments, including potential extensions to the Tramlink and enhancements to train services, aim to improve transportation in and around Croydon.

Croydon’s transport options, especially its extensive rail and tram services, make it a well-connected area, attractive for commuting to London and accessing other parts of the South East.

Sources

• Transport for London: Croydon
• Southern Railway: East Croydon Station

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Croydon

Navigating property development or modifications in Croydon involves understanding the local planning permissions and land covenants. These regulations and agreements ensure that any development or alteration aligns with local urban planning strategies and complies with legal requirements.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This provides an initial agreement to the concept of a development, but requires further detailed plans for full approval.
• Full Planning Permission: Necessary for carrying out specific construction works or significant alterations, this detailed permission must be obtained before starting any project.
• Permitted Development Rights: Some types of minor improvements or extensions might not require full planning permission. However, it’s advisable to check with Croydon Council, especially in conservation areas or for properties with special designations.

Common Land Covenants in Croydon

• Restrictive Covenants: These are legally binding conditions that can limit the use or development of a property, such as prohibiting certain types of construction or specifying the use of the property.
• Positive Covenants: These require property owners to perform specific actions, like maintaining a shared facility or contributing to communal infrastructure.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: Croydon Council’s Local Plan sets out policies and guidelines for development, including considerations for housing, commercial development, and environmental sustainability.
• Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: Additional planning controls may apply to properties within conservation areas or those designated as listed buildings, aimed at preserving architectural and historical heritage.

Local Sources of Help

• Croydon Council Planning Services: Offers support for planning applications, including advice on local planning regulations and policies.
• Land Registry: The official source for information on property ownership and details of any land covenants.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: Engaging with planning officers before submitting a formal application can provide insights into potential planning constraints and the likelihood of approval.
• Legal Advice: Considering the complexities of land covenants and specific local regulations, seeking legal advice can help clarify their implications for your property.

Understanding the planning permissions and land covenants in Croydon is essential for ensuring that property developments and alterations comply with local regulations and contribute positively to the area’s urban development.

Sources

• Croydon Council: Planning and Building Control
• HM Land Registry