Q&A: The Independent property, your questions answered

Q I have recently rebuilt a number of walls in my house to change the room configurations. To my knowledge I do not have any building regulation certificates – will I need these if I want to sell my house?
Mike Alderton, by e-mail

A Alterations to the structure of the building, removal or part removal of a load-bearing wall, joist, beam or chimney breast should conform to building regulations. If you hired a builder to do the work, check if he liaised with the building control officer at your local authority. If not, you will need to contact them to explain what work has been carried out. If work was carried out without approval, the local authority can issue an enforcement notice requiring retrospective approval. It's best to get it sorted out before you try to sell your house as it could hold up the sale if you wait for a potential buyer's surveyor to flag any concerns.

Q I would like to invest in a buy-to-let but the only properties within my budget locally are ex-council houses. Are they a good investment?
P Byan, by e-mail

A Former council properties usually sell for around 30 per cent less so they could seem an attractive buy, but the location and type of property is crucial to your investment. Some council properties buried in the middle of large estates are extremely hard to sell and, in turn, will be hard to let. Others are in popular locations but these will be more expensive. As you are looking to let this property, it should be in good condition, close to transport and shops and in an area attractive to good tenants. You should compare the price of the cheapest non-council properties, and the rent you would get, by asking estate and lettings agencies. Appreciation is also likely to be greater in the private sector.

Q We have three large trees at the end of our 60ft garden that we feel may discourage people from buying the house. Should we remove them before trying to sell?
T Scorer, by e-mail

A If they are blocking out light from the garden and house it may be worth getting them trimmed back. It probably isn't necessary to remove them, as this can cause even greater damage. If you have concerns about structural damage you should ask a surveyor specialising in this sort of work for advice. Call 0870 3311600 to find a RICS member in your area.

If you would like a query answered on buying or selling a property, e-mail: propertyq&a@independent.co.uk. Only those questions featured will be answered. Any advice given will not be legally binding