Some of the aspects you should consider when inspecting
a property:
OUTSIDE
THE HOUSE
- Are there any large trees near the house? The root
systems of trees can cause structural subsidence if
they are close to the home.
- Inspect fences and gates for stability and rot.
- Check that the land's water runoff drains away from
the house.
- Inspect all outside walls. Are they straight, cracked
or rotten?
- The condition of the mortar between the bricks must
also be assessed.
- Make sure there is adequate sub-floor ventilation.
- Check the condition of the eaves. Water staining
may be an indication of damaged gutters.
- Look at the line of the roof to make sure it is
straight. Are there any broken tiles?
- Check the stumps for subsidence, rot, borer or termite
attack.
INSIDE THE HOUSE
- Check that all the floors are level and that there
are not gaps between the floor and skirting boards.
- Jump lightly on wood floorboards to assess their
stability.
- Look for signs of rising damp, including rotting
carpet, mould on the walls or ceiling and musty odours.
- Check the walls and ceiling for warping and cracks.
Fresh paint or wallpaper may be hiding problem areas.
- Assess whether doors and windows are square. Jamming
may indicate structural subsidence.
Make sure all light switches work. Also check each
power point by using a power point tester (these are
relatively inexpensive and can be purchased from hardware
and electrical stores).
- Test the water pressure in both hot and cold taps.
Ideally, turn on several taps simultaneously.
Partially fill the bath or sink and observe the drainage
of this water. Sluggish flow could indicate damaged
or blocked sewer drains.
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