Purchasing a new home- a do it yourself checklist Part Two

Purchasing a new home- a do it yourself checklist Part Two

Australian Property Building Inspections (APBI) are committed to providing the most thorough and professional building inspection reports so you don’t need to worry whether your dream home is really a nightmare in waiting.  A thorough inspection of your new property can save you thousands of dollars and give you the confidence the purchase the home of your dreams so if you notice any of the issues on this checklist contact us immediately you won’t be sorry. APBI has professional building inspectors in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne along with other major capitals and regional centres

Electrical Systems

• Flick all light switches on and off and check all power points work.
• With your tester check that the power points are all working.
• In older homes check the wiring carefully, check if the house has safety switches installed
• Should you have any concerns about the electrical system at all consult with a professional

Plumbing Systems

• Do the pipes have cracks or leaks.
• Turn on both cold and hot water taps and check the pressure.
• Check if the water drains properly in the shower and laundry.
• Where any down pipe meets the ground, check for soft or wet soil

The Garden

• Are there any large trees close to the house as this may cause structural subsidence, particularly in brick or veneer homes or be blown onto the house in a wild storm
• What is the condition of the fence and gates.

Outside Walls

• Are the outside walls straight especially so in weatherboard houses
• Check around the window frames for signs of rust or rotting
• Check the mortar between the bricks.
• Is there cross floor ventilation beneath floors.
• Check whether the eaves show signs of buckling or water damage

On the Roof

• Use your ladder and check the roof line.
• Are there any broken or cracked roof tiles
• If the roof is tin make sure all pieces are nailed down and no rust.
• See if the flashings loose or has any holes or leaks

Under Timber Floors

• Make sure piers or stumps are holding up the floor not something temporary
• Look at the timber framing and floors generally and look for signs of rot or mould.
• Is the ground excessively wet
• Whilst you might be able to inspect the house for signs of termites or borers, the house should be checked by an expert.

General

Walk around the inside of the house and determine if the room layout is appropriate, orientation to the sun, how close are your neighbours, proximity to traffic and if unhappy with it would you be able to improve the house at an affordable price.

Renovations and Extensions

If there have been renovations recently have they been approved by the local Council to ensure that a building permit was obtained Be careful if they have been conducted illegally. If you would likely renovate and extend in the future check what the area is zoned for. 

In most cases you may need professional advice to ensure a pest control report or building inspection report has been carried out, so contact APBI today for peace of mind before you go ahead and buy your next home.