When inspecting a potential property as a buyer, it’s crucial to consider both the visible condition of the home and any underlying issues that could affect its value, safety, or liveability.
READ: What are Occupancy Certificates, and do you need one to buy/sell a home?
Quay1 senior broker Nélio Mendes shares a few key pointers on what you should look for when inspecting a potential property:
Exterior of the Property:-
Roof Condition: Check for missing shingles, signs of wear, or any sagging that could indicate a need for repair.
Foundation: Look for cracks, unevenness, or signs of water damage
Paint: Inspect for peeling paint, rotting wood, or damage to ceiling board and
cornices
Landscaping and Drainage: Ensure that the ground slopes away from the house and that there are no signs of water pooling, which could lead to foundation issues. Also, ensure the pool and equipment are in working order and have no leaks.
READ: Useful checklist before you start your home search
According to RE/MAX of Southern Africa, the general defects, faults or failings to check for include:
- the roof for leaks or cracks or structural issues
- all electrical systems and wiring
- the plumbing system for water pressure issues or leaks, including the swimming pool (if you have one)
- the sewage system on your property, septic, conservancy tank (or whatever sewerage disposal system applies) to make sure there are no blockages or leaks
- the foundations for cracks, bulges, flooding, and dampness
- wet walls and any mould or problems with tiling
- If your house has excess water that needs to be pumped away, you will need to declare this and appropriate information about your pump/drainage system.
- Check for structural defects associated with the property boundary. Is there a disagreement between you (or anyone else) about the boundary lines of your property? Does anything encroach on the property? If so, what?
- If you have made alterations, extended or built more structures on your property, were these properly approved by the council?
- Has the property or any part of it been declared a historic monument or a heritage site?
READ: The importance of home inspections and checklists
Interior of the Property:
Walls and Ceilings: Look for cracks, water stains, or signs of mould, which could indicate structural problems or leaks.
Windows and Doors: Check that all windows and doors open and close properly, and look for draughts or condensation that might suggest poor insulation.
Floors: Notice any unevenness, creaking, or sagging, which could point to issues
with the subfloor or foundation.
Plumbing: Inspect under sinks, and around toilets. Check the water pressure and
the age of the water heater.
Electrical System: Test light switches, and ask about appliances in working order.
Kitchen and Bathrooms:
Appliances: Ensure that all appliances are in working order and check their age to estimate when they might need replacement.
Cabinetry: Look for water damage, especially under sinks. Ensure cabinets and drawers open and close properly.
Tile and Grout: Inspect for cracks or missing grout, which could allow water to seep into walls or floors.
READ: A guide to inspections for landlords and tenants
Neighbourhood and Location:
Noise Levels: Visit the property at different times of the day to assess noise levels from traffic, neighbours, or other sources.
Proximity to Amenities: Consider the distance to schools, shopping centres, public transportation, and other essential services.
Property Disclosures and Permits:
Seller’s Disclosures: Review any disclosures provided by the seller to understand known issues with the property.
Building Plans and Restrictions: Check for any additions or renovations and ensure they were done with proper permits and up to code.
Overall Layout and Space:
Floor Layout: Ensure the layout meets your needs, with a logical flow between rooms and adequate space.
Natural Light: Consider the amount of natural light in key living areas.
Maintenance Costs:
Consider the potential future costs of maintaining the property, such as replacing the roof, painting etc.
Energy Efficiency:
Look for energy-efficient insulation, solar panels, and inverter backup systems.
Sectional Title Apartments:
Always ask for the homeowners associated or body corporate rules and latest financials. The last AGM minutes would also be great to get a copy of. Proof of exact Levy and rates bill amounts. And if any future special levies are perhaps coming up or already payable.
READ: 9 cost-effective room transformations that will redefine any space
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