Buying a property is exciting and stressful all at the same time. There are so many properties to see but finding the perfect one amongst them all is the reason for stress. You might have found the perfect house in the perfect neighbourhood, but don’t let the excitement cloud your judgement. There may be a few defects in and around the house that could cause serious problems in the future and cost you a lot in the long run.
A qualified HOME BUYERS REPORT or BUILDING SURVEY is always your best bet for a thorough home inspection and will draw attention to any possible defects. However, it is a good idea to have a general understanding of what to look out for.
Here are the few defects to look out for at a house viewing:
Dampness
The main sign of dampness in a house is the mouldy smell, flaky plaster and watermarked walls or ceilings. It sounds obvious, but ensure you look closely at the ceilings and around the skirting boards. Dampness causes extensive damage to the property, it weakens the timber and the structure, eats away the floorboards, window frames and roof beams.
Exterior cracks
The inside of the property can smell fresh from the cleaning products and paint, but the exteriors could cost you a fortune if you ignore it. The cracks in the walls are unsightly and an indicator of a possible serious structural problem. It is essential to know if a crack in the wall can be easily fixed or whether it needs structural repairs. Don’t underestimate the seriousness of the cracks in the property and always take professional advice.
Ventilation
Every property should have proper ventilation to ensure that the moisture in the home evaporates effectively. If the moisture sits in an area for a prolonged amount of time, it can cause issues. The areas that you need to pay attention to is the space between the roof and the ceiling. Proper ventilation in these areas will ensure the longevity of the roof and keep the interiors of the home dry at all times.
DIY repairs
While there is nothing wrong with DIY repairs, it is important to check they are done correctly. It is normal for a homeowner to undertake ‘do-it-yourself’ repairs around the home, so check the plumbing and electricals properly, especially in the bathroom. If you spot something that seems like it’s falling apart, address the issue with the seller.
