Real Estate / Buying an old-ish house in Poland - how to get it evaluated [7]

Hi there,

My (Polish!) fiance and I are thinking about buying a 20 year old house and I want it checked out before committing any money. I have read that building surveys are not the norm in Poland and instead people can ask a builder to come and have a look. I have to say I don't like that idea much, as a builder is not an independent party with their reputation (and livelihood) at risk if they do not do their job properly!

A financial advisor told us that the land/building must be assessed for the bank, before they provide credit. I am wondering what this assessment includes. Maybe it provides enough detail for our needs, or perhaps we could ask for the inspection to include some extra things, e.g. the condition of the roof, plumbing/electrical wiring...

Otherwise, can a survey be arranged and will it scare the seller off?!

Any advice much appreciated ; )