Due diligence surveys for acquisition, refinancing and sale

Cluttons’ City office team undertake due diligence surveys on behalf of investors at all stages of the asset cycle, adding value by presenting risk analysis in the context of the client’s investment objectives.

Three recent instructions have facilitated the acquisition, refinancing and sale of property with a value in excess of £300 million – the acquisition of a 1960s retail property occupied on the ground floor by Morrisons Local in Newbury; the refinancing of Camden market in north London; and the sale of a major city office and retail property in the City of London.

Outcome

Our due diligence reports enabled clients to enter into investment negotiations with key risk information set out clearly and concisely so that deals that can be completed swiftly without protracted negotiation.

  • Full building surveys were completed by our highly experienced building surveyors
  • Environmental, M&E and cost consultants were appointed and coordinated on the client’s behalf, where required
  • Key risks and solutions were identified for the purchase of a 1960s retail property, including the presence of High Aluminium Cement concrete floor beams and Japanese knotweed
  • Our re-financing survey identified risks to the lender in terms of the landlord’s existing and future capital liabilities as a result of statutory requirements, in particular, the preservation of listed buildings, the maintenance of recently built units and the completion recent development works
  • Our holistic advice covered the building management strategy, planned preventative maintenance proposals, and future development opportunities, setting out comprehensively prospective purchaser’s risks in order to facilitate an efficient purchaser’s due diligence processes and reduce unnecessary delay and negotiation

How we helped

Our comprehensive knowledge of asset optimisation, encompassing property management, maintenance, and development, as well as lease advisory, enabled us to approach the instructions in a way that focused on the client’s investment objectives, rather than simply reporting facts.

  • At all times we considered the client’s desired investment outcome
  • All issues reported were presented in their proper context in terms of the client’s objectives
  • Our reports were presented clearly and concisely, avoiding unnecessary information
  • Where ever possible solutions to problems were presented.