Purchasing a home is not simply about signing papers to close the sale. To ensure that you are making a sound investment, you need to know the ins and outs of the property beforehand. This way, in the event that there are any aspects that need repair or replacement, they can be attended to before you take on ownership of the home. Failure to address these problems beforehand will leave you with a property in disrepair that would be lesser in value when compared to your purchase price. However, not many newbie homeowners know what to look for when it comes to building inspections. Here are some of the things to inspect to ensure there are no hidden surprises once you have purchased the property.
Inspect the drainage of the home
Ensuring that the drainage of the property is in good working condition is prudent in preventing water damage to your property. Some of the aspects to inspect include cracked slabs in the exterior of the home and drainage deficiencies in the form of improper infrastructure that will redirect water away from your home. Some of the repairs you may need to have before purchasing the property include the installation of new gutters as well as down pipes so as to reduce the risk of water damage to the property.
Inspect the ventilation of the home
Properties that have been aggressively sealed to prevent energy loss tend to be at a higher risk of improper ventilation. Improper ventilation does not simply lead to a home smelling musty and congested, though. The high moisture levels also make the home a prime breeding ground for mould and mildew. Improper ventilation can also compromise any timber building supplies that have been used in the construction of the home, as they will become susceptible to rot and decay over time. When conducting a building inspection, ensure that the home is well ventilated. If it is not, ensure proper ventilation is installed prior to the purchase of the property.
Inspect the plumbing of the home
Plumbing systems are one of the most intricate systems of any property. As such, any minor problem could soon become a plumbing emergency. One of the first thing to check during the plumbing inspection is whether the home's pipes are outdated. You would be better off moving into a home with a new plumbing system, as older pipes are susceptible to succumbing to wear and tear, which will lead to exorbitant repairs down the road. Other aspects to examine during the plumbing inspection faulty fixtures around the home as well as whether the waste lines are in good working condition.
