Yes, absolutely. Wall tie failure is a common issue in many older cavity wall properties throughout the UK and should not automatically put you off purchasing a property.
In fact, if you’re buying an older home, particularly one built during periods when galvanised wall ties were commonly used, there is a reasonable chance that some degree of wall tie corrosion may be present. This is simply a consequence of ageing materials and decades of exposure to the elements.
Wall tie failure occurs when the metal wall ties that connect the inner and outer leaves of a cavity wall begin to corrode and can no longer perform their structural function effectively. While this can lead to issues such as cracking or bulging brickwork, it is a well-understood problem with proven repair solutions.
Modern stainless steel remedial wall tie systems are specifically designed to address wall tie failure and can usually be installed with minimal disruption to the property. In most cases, the issue can be resolved quickly and cost-effectively by a specialist contractor.
If a survey has identified possible wall tie failure, we recommend arranging a specialist inspection so you can fully understand the condition of the property and any remedial work that may be required before proceeding with the purchase.