When buying a property, it's important to do a thorough pre-purchase inspection. This investment can shield you from future headaches and unforeseen repair costs. In this blog post, we will give you some helpful tips for inspecting a house before buying it.
The cornerstone of a successful home purchase lies in a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection. Don't be fooled by an attractive interior; some homes conceal their true condition beneath the surface. A house might look great inside, but problems may hide underneath, especially if it's built on timber stumps. Thus, a pre-purchase inspection isn't just recommended—it's essential.
Before you decide to make an offer or hire a professional inspector, use these helpful tips to check the condition of the house.
Is there waves in the Roof Line?
A quick glance at the roof line can also disclose potential problems. If you notice waves in the roof, it might mean there are problems with the structure underneath. These problems could be coming from the footings. It's vital to regard this warning as it could result in expensive repairs down the line.
Check for signs of leaks and moisture
Never forget to look up during a home inspection. Water stains on the ceiling often signify a leaking roof. Also, make sure to inspect the bathrooms . If you see cracked tiles or grout falling out in the shower, it probably has a leak. Be aware that resealing a bathroom isn't always an option, and a full bathroom renovation can prove costly.
Check for bouncing Floors
Floor movement is another red flag. If the floors feel bouncy when you walk in the house, it might require re-stumping or re-blocking which can be expensive. Particularly in older homes, timber stumps beneath may need replacement with concrete stumps.
Checking for Humps in the Floor
Look for humps in the floor, if it feels like you're walking uphill or downhill, this could mean that the house needs re-blocking.
Checking for Wall Cracks
Cracking in walls, especially in internal walls, may indicate structural movement. If there's structural movement, this may need re-blocking. Wide cracking in a home can be concerning because it may indicate settling issues.
Check the doors close
During your inspection, open and close all doors. If they're sticking or jamming, there might have been structural movement within the home. Don't be fooled by a fresh coat of paint - it can hide cracks and flaws.
Turn on Taps
Turn on the taps to check the water pressure. Listen for any "knocking" sounds, known as water hammer coming from the pipes.
Check freshly painted homes
Newly painted homes can often hide a multitude of sins. If you find patched walls under the paint, it may mean there was structural movement.
If wooden windows look freshly painted but have visible patches, especially on the outside frame, these patches often indicate timber rot.
Checking handrails and balustrades
It's important to check handrails and balustrades on stairs and decks/balconies for stability. Grabbing the balustrade and trying to move it will tell you whether it is safe and secure or not. If the balcony is high up, like on the second floor or in an apartment, be careful with the balustrade. In those situations, it is better to leave it up to the expert.
Inspect the Gutters and Downpipes
During your inspection, ensure that gutters are intact and devoid of rust or leaks. Verify that downpipes are correctly connected to the stormwater drains. If they're not, water may be seeping under the property which can cause major problems in the long run.
Conclusion
Investing in a pre-purchase inspection is very important when buying a house. While you can do some checks yourself, it's important to have a professional inspection. An expert can find hidden issues, saving you time, stress, and money later on.
Get in touch today if you would like some more advice whether your building or buying.
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