Thanks Colour Happy. Plasterer has been in already but only plastered where needed so I'm assuming that means we don't need to plaster behind wall paper (some of which had to be removed for the rewiring) and Painter seems happy enough to do remainder of filling/smoothing walls but thanks for the tip, I'll definitely check again with them. Re sisal, no dogs but small kids at home so need to stick to softer/more standard carpet!

I’m no expert on this but does seem to be a problem with poor ventilation. Quite common especially with older properties as new additions such as upvc windows, insulation, blocked up chimneys, damp proofing, etc. etc. basically means that any moisture in the air has nowhere to go and as the weather turns colder that moisture will be attracted to cold spots such as windows and exterior walls. This condensation ends up a breeding ground for mold which I think is what you’re seeing here. But like I say I’m no expert so I’d get a second opinion and maybe a damp specialist to rule out any other underlying causes.

Hi Monica, I've just done my bathroom walls with vinyl! Was relatively easy, just like putting up wallpaper and the water just runs off it. Got mine online - lots out there to choose from. Thinking of doing the wet-room next! Cheap and cheerful :)

Many years ago I had a job where I saw plenty of reports. These particular observations were not standard comments on every report (some comments for example about drains used to be as they can’t inspect). My understanding is homebuyers is quite limited and is really only an extended look over a house. Basic valuation is a very quick look round to establish the price. Structural report involves pulling back carpet, maybe drilling in walls and a lot more involved. Not every seller will be happy for your surveyor to do these things to their home. By you choosing the homebuyers report makes me think you wanted more detailed information about the property condition. This is likely to be your most expensive purchase. If the surveyor has recommended strongly a structural engineer inspects the property I personally wouldn’t ignore this. Yes you could have surveyor go round and all be fine potentially wasting their fee or it could identify a problem potentially saving you thousands. In either case it would give you peace of mind about what you are actually buying.