Buying a house is a significant investment, whether you are purchasing your first home or adding to your property portfolio. And as with any significant investment, there are many risks that you must consider – mould, termites and dodgy electrics are just some of the things that can cause you a headache in the future. However, you can avoid any unexpected shocks by having an expert check over the house before finalising the contract.
Why Arrange a Pre-Purchase Inspection?
Licensed housing inspectors are more likely to identify problem areas in the structure of your new house. A pre-purchase inspection from a professional company such as Ellis Building Inspections can also uncover potential risks that you may otherwise miss, such as termite problems. Most inspectors also provide you with a detailed report that outlines the problem, making it easier to find out how much it will cost to repair and possibly negotiate a better price if you intend to go ahead with the sale.
Check for Signs of Moisture
Water damage can be costly to repair and moisture build-up leads to mould, which can be a major health hazard. A quick smell test won’t detect all moisture problems, so it’s important you look closely at all the nooks and crannies. Check for water spots or mould on the ceiling and in bathroom or kitchen cupboards. This may be caused by poor ventilation or water leaks, so you should think also about fixing these issues to avoid future damage.
Inspect for Cracks or Flooring That Isn’t Level
Cracks in brickwork or plaster may be a cause for concern. In older homes, it might be a sign of movement in the block, but cracks stretching more than one millimetre can indicate that there is a more serious problem. For instance, cracks in the plastering might signal that it was applied incorrectly during the construction process, meaning the plaster could come loose at a later stage. Meanwhile, an uneven floor may be an indication that structural piers have moved or even collapsed. This is a major structural defect that will be very costly to fix, and is definitely something you want to be aware of before purchasing the house.
Check the Electrics
While retro light fittings might look stylish, you need the peace of mind that the wiring itself is up to date. Old wiring or unlicensed electrical work can be cause for concern, but the only way to know is to have it checked by an expert. Faulty electrical work carries varying degrees of risk, but it is not something you want to mess with.
Signs of Cover-Ups
While we all like to think we can spot dodgy construction work, sometimes it isn’t that simple. Problem areas of the home could be subject to a cover-up if the previous owner didn’t have the time or the money for repairs. A skilled inspector can identify any patch work and is usually familiar with the tricks that might be used to cover any defects. For example, fresh ceiling paint and new carpeting may be a sign that something is going on under the covering.
When buying a house, a building inspection can help you make an informed decision by identifying structural problems or defects that would significantly increase expenditure on the property, so there’s no doubting how much it can benefit you. If you have any home buying tips to share with other readers, leave them in the comments below!
