Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Harrow

Property Market Trends in Harrow

Harrow, a borough in Northwest London, is known for its excellent schools, suburban feel, and diverse property market, appealing to families, professionals, and investors.

Family-Friendly Suburbs and Quality Education

• Harrow on the Hill: Famous for the prestigious Harrow School, this area offers a mix of historic properties and modern developments, with the charm of a village setting within Greater London.
• Pinner and North Harrow: These neighbourhoods are popular for their spacious homes, good schools, and local amenities, offering a quieter, more family-oriented lifestyle.

Development and Connectivity

• South Harrow and Harrow Weald: These areas are experiencing growth with new housing projects and improvements in local facilities, attracting families and first-time buyers.
• Rayners Lane and West Harrow: Known for their more affordable housing options compared to other parts of Harrow, these neighbourhoods offer good connectivity to central London and local amenities.

Affluent Areas and Green Spaces

• Stanmore: An affluent suburb known for its large properties and green spaces like Stanmore Common, Stanmore attracts families and professionals looking for a quieter lifestyle with easy access to central London.
• Kenton: Straddling the border between Harrow and Brent, Kenton offers a range of property types and is popular for its cultural diversity and community feel.

Influencing Factors

• Educational Excellence: Harrow’s reputation for high-quality education, including Harrow School and a range of good state schools, is a major draw for families.
• Transport Links: The borough’s multiple tube stations on the Metropolitan Line and other transport links offer easy access to central London, making it a prime spot for commuters.
• Community and Lifestyle: Harrow’s diverse cultural community, parks, and recreational facilities contribute to its appeal as a desirable residential area.

Staying informed about Harrow’s property market trends is crucial for those looking to invest in an area that combines the benefits of suburban living with the convenience of access to London.

Sources

• Rightmove: Harrow Property Market
• Harrow Times: Homes

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Harrow

Harrow’s property market features a blend of housing styles, including substantial post-war developments, classic mid-century homes, and modern housing estates.

Common Types of Properties

• Post-War Semi-Detached and Detached Houses: Common in residential areas like Pinner and Stanmore, these homes typically offer spacious accommodation but may require updates for energy efficiency and modern conveniences.
• 1930s Terraced Houses: Found in areas like South Harrow and Harrow Weald, these properties are well-built but might benefit from modernisation, especially in heating systems and insulation.
• Modern Apartment Complexes: In central Harrow and newer developments, these offer contemporary living standards but should be checked for build quality and adherence to energy efficiency standards.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Damp and Insulation: Older properties, particularly those built before the 1980s, can be prone to damp issues, necessitating improvements in damp-proofing and insulation.
• Roofing Condition: The state of the roof in both mid-century and older homes should be a focus, as repairs or replacement can be significant expenses.
• Subsidence: Some areas in Harrow, particularly those built on clay soils, may be more prone to subsidence, so a thorough structural survey is advisable.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: Conducting a detailed survey is essential to identify any structural concerns that could impact the property’s value and future repair costs.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): An EPC provides an indication of the property’s energy efficiency and suggests areas for potential improvement.
• Local Planning and Development: Being informed about local planning applications and developments is important, as these can impact property values and the quality of life in the area.

Understanding the structural conditions and common issues in Harrow’s properties will help buyers make informed decisions, ensuring that they are prepared for any potential maintenance or renovations required.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) – Helping You Choose The Right Survey
• London Borough of Harrow – Planning and Developments

Commute and Transportation Options in Harrow

Harrow, a borough in Northwest London, provides various transportation options for its residents and visitors:

Public Transport

• Underground Services: Harrow is well-served by the London Underground. Stations like Harrow-on-the-Hill, North Harrow, and West Harrow on the Metropolitan Line, and others on the Piccadilly Line, offer convenient access to Central London and other parts of the city.
• Train Services: Harrow & Wealdstone Station provides London Overground and National Rail services, including connections to London Euston, Watford Junction, and beyond.
• Bus Services: A comprehensive bus network operates in Harrow, connecting to local areas and key destinations in Greater London. These services are managed by Transport for London (TfL).

Car and Motorway Access

• Major Roads: The A40 is easily accessible from Harrow, providing direct routes to Central London and connecting to the M25 motorway for travel around London and to other regions.
• Parking: There are various parking options in Harrow, including on-street parking and council-operated car parks, particularly in the town centre and near transport hubs.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Companies: Numerous taxi firms operate in Harrow, offering services within the borough and to destinations such as airports and central London.
• Uber: Uber and other ride-sharing services are available in Harrow, providing convenient travel options.

Cycling and Walking

• Cycling: Harrow Council is working to improve cycling infrastructure in the borough, promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
• Walking: Many parts of Harrow, especially around the town centre and residential areas, are pedestrian-friendly, with local amenities accessible on foot.

Future Developments

• Transport Infrastructure Improvements: Continuous efforts are being made to enhance public transport, road networks, and facilities for cyclists and pedestrians in Harrow, improving connectivity and travel efficiency.

Harrow’s transport options, especially its access to the London Underground and rail services, make it a convenient borough for commuting and living in the London area.

Sources

• Transport for London: Harrow
• London Overground: Harrow & Wealdstone Station

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Harrow

For those involved in property development or modifications in Harrow, understanding the local planning permissions and land covenants is crucial. These regulations and agreements ensure that developments comply with local planning strategies and legal requirements.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This is an initial stage that assesses the general concept of a proposed development. It sets the groundwork for detailed plans that need to be submitted and approved for full consent.
• Full Planning Permission: Required for specific construction works or significant alterations, this comprehensive permission must be obtained before starting any project.
• Permitted Development Rights: Some types of minor improvements and extensions may not require full planning permission. However, it’s important to check with Harrow Council, especially in conservation areas or for properties with special designations.

Common Land Covenants in Harrow

• Restrictive Covenants: These legally enforceable conditions can limit how a property is used or developed, such as preventing 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 boundary or contributing to communal infrastructure.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: The London Borough of Harrow’s Local Plan sets out policies and guidelines for development, influencing decisions on housing, commercial spaces, and environmental sustainability.
• Conservation Areas: Additional planning controls may be in place within conservation areas to preserve historical or architectural significance.

Local Sources of Help

• Harrow Council Planning Services: Offers guidance on 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 valuable insights into potential planning constraints and the likelihood of approval.
• Legal Advice: Considering the complexities of land covenants, seeking legal advice can be beneficial to fully understand their impact on your property.

By understanding the planning permissions and land covenants in Harrow, property developers and owners can ensure that their projects are compliant with local regulations and contribute positively to the community’s planning strategy.

Sources

• Harrow Council: Planning
• HM Land Registry