Open inspection red flags
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Purchasing a property is a significant investment and an exciting milestone. To ensure you make an informed decision, it’s crucial to not be dazzled by fresh paintwork, new carpets or ‘staged’ furniture. ‘Staging’ is commonly done these days. It involves professional but temporary furnishing of a house with hired furniture, pictures on the walls, rugs and knickknacks to present the interior at its best.
In this blog we explain what to look for during an open inspection and potential red flags that could indicate problems down the line.
Exterior inspection
During an open inspection, talk a walk around the exterior of the property. Start with the foundation, looking for any cracks or signs of settling, as significant issues here could lead to costly repairs. Examine the walls for cracks, especially near windows and doors. While small hairline cracks can be normal, larger ones might indicate structural issues. Next, inspect the roof for missing tiles, rust spots, or sagging areas; a well-maintained roof is crucial for protecting the home from weather damage.
If it happens to be a rainy day, pay attention to exterior features such as gutters and downpipes. They should be clean and direct water away from the foundation. Landscaping and paths should slope away from the house to prevent water accumulation around the foundation. Check the windows and doors for proper sealing and any signs of moisture damage or drafts.
Interior inspection
Once inside, don’t be dazzled by the bling. Focus on the structural components of the home. Walk through each room to feel for any unevenness or soft spots in the floors, which could indicate issues beneath the surface. Inspect the walls and ceilings for cracks, water stains or discoloration that can signal water damage or structural problems.
Test the water pressure by turning on taps and listen for any unusual noises. Look for brown discolouration in the water. Look under sinks and around toilets for leaks or corrosion. Test light switches to ensure they work properly.
If the property has a basement, moisture, mould or mildew can indicate water ingress and potentially previous flooding.
The value of a pre-purchase inspection
While conducting your own walk-through inspection is a good first step, engaging an experienced building inspector is an invaluable investment. Professional inspectors have the tools and expertise to look beneath the surface and identify issues that may not be immediately visible to an untrained eye. They can provide a comprehensive report detailing the condition of the property, highlighting any major and minor concerns.
Building inspectors use specialised equipment such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden problems like leaks, insulation issues and structural defects. Their experience allows them to interpret these findings accurately and provide actionable advice on necessary repairs or potential future problems.
By engaging a professional building inspector, you gain peace of mind knowing that you have a thorough understanding of the property’s condition. This knowledge can be crucial in negotiating the purchase price, planning for future maintenance and ultimately ensuring that your investment is sound.
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