Is this likely to be subsidence

[Adam Riley]

Looking at buying this bunglaow, it was built in the 1950s and had a flat roof extension built in the 80s, you can see where they attach where theres a vertical crack. I'm not sure whether I should progress with an offer as I think it shows clear signs of subsidence, however, I have no experience to really make an informed decision. I hope I'm wrong and it's just poor render/weather damage or even where it's settled and then they've applied the wrong filler, it's a probate property so I can't ask. In your opinion does this look to be likely? Here's a video of the extent of the problem: https://photos.app.goo.gl/LUXb5LocLTtEbsDR9

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

If it's a crack where the extension joins the house it's probably just settlement, got some pictures from further away?

 

[Adam Riley]

I didn't take any other photos, unfortunately the sun was right behind me so I couldn't see what the photos looked like at the time, I will be going back today to have a look so I can update the post. Heres a photo from the listing:

 

[Koolpc]

As above, probably due to settlement between the two.

 

[Ivor Windybottom]

I wouldn't worry about it. Photo 2 shows it's on the joint of original and extension.

Chip the render off a foot or two either side, put a movement joint bead across the joint then re-render either side of it. Then the joint will move instead of cracking the render.

 

[Adam Riley]

I wouldn't worry about it. Photo 2 shows it's on the joint of original and extension.

Chip the render off a foot or two either side, put a movement joint bead across the joint then re-render either side of it. Then the joint will move instead of cracking the render.

Would that type of movement cause horizontal cracks on the main building like in the first photo?

 

[HERTS P&D]

Coud also have a leaking gully.

Andy

 

[oldbutnotdead]

You very much can ask, it'll be an odd set of relatives that never visited the (now deceased) owner.
If that render is all the same age then i'd agree with whoever mentioned differential movement/settlement of the extension.
Full structural survey might reassure you. Also have a look round the neighbourhood , see if there are any more similar age to that one, knock on some doors and have a chat.

 

[noseall]

Looks like typical thermal/seasonal cracking to me. Scourge of brittle sand/cement renders.

 

[Ivor Windybottom]

The only real answer is to chisel some render off and look at the brick underneath. They're thin cracks, and it doesn't look like anything's moved inwards or outwards, i.e. there's no step across them.

Ideally just don't buy a rendered or painted house. If it's brick underneath you've got to wonder why it was done. Sometimes there's an innocent explanation, our last house had windows and doors moved around so it looked messy.

Perhaps look around inside in greater detail, especially at the top corners of door and window frames. This will tell you if the building's moving or it's just brittle old render that's not well attached.