This is a collaborative post
Buying a home is a serious decision and investment that should be treated with the seriousness it deserves. You do not want to view the home for half an hour and then end up regretting your purchase. To save you from heartache, we have put together a list of things you should check before moving forward.
Signs of Damp
A home that suffers from a damp problem will be a huge headache down the road. The main signs to look for are watermarked ceilings and walls, a mouldy smell, and flaky plaster. Look around the skirting boards too to see if the problem exists but has just been painted over, as some homeowners do this.
Painted walls and ceilings should prompt you to investigate further because the paint could be hiding a serious issue.
The Structure
While hairline fractures shouldn’t give you too much stress, any wide cracks or gaps indicate the home is not structurally sound. Check where the window and door frames connect to the wall, end-of-terrace walls, and where extensions join to get an idea of how good the structure is.
Ask about any concerns you might have and let the seller know you have these concerns. Then, ask them to bring a surveyor to check the house and let you know the condition of the structure.
Electrical System and Installation Check
Shoddy wiring and faulty electrical installations are very dangerous and so you should have the home inspected by a qualified and experienced professional before moving forward with the home purchase. The electrician will complete what is known as an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
An EICR report is a formal document that outlines the safety of an electrical installation or system. It is a useful check when a home changes owners, as would happen when you buy a home. The EICR test goes much further than a visual inspection because the electrician will check the whole electrical installation, identifying any areas that you should be concerned about.
The EIRC test will detail what electrical items were checked, which includes the circuit accessories and switchgear. The electrician will also do a live and dead test of the circuitry to ensure the house complies with legal safety requirements.
If the EICR report details that remedial work is required, you can ask the seller to carry out those works before you complete the process. You can also ask them to reduce the asking price if you are going to be paying for their work yourself.
Plumbing Checks
Plumbing is problematic because there could be hidden problems that become massive issues later. You want a professional to check all plumbing, from the streets to the internal pipes, taps, and toilets. Such a thorough check will also let you know if any pipes need to be replaced.
Another thing to check is the water pressure. You want to ensure that you get good pressure through the house, especially in the shower, when multiple taps are open.
Not completing a thorough check of a house you are about to buy could lead to issues and expensive repairs or replacements in the future. Take your time to check the home thoroughly to avoid such headaches.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post