When you are viewing a property, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding a potential new home. However, it’s crucial to keep your emotions in check and ensure that you are making a well-informed decision. Part of this involves making sure you check a property thoroughly during a viewing.
To help you do this we have compiled a list of things to check when viewing a property. Regardless of whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, going through these steps will save you from any potential problems in the future!
1. Structural Integrity
Make sure you check the structural condition of any property. This can typically be identified by signs of cracks on the walls, ceilings, floors. Pay special attention to any load-bearing walls or beams and around windows or door frames. It’s important to check for cracks both inside and outside of property. If you notice exterior rendering has been patched up, ask why! Any cracks may indicate structural problems and may require costly repairs down the line.
2. Damp & Mold
There are a number of reasons why you need to check for damp both inside & outside of a property. Uncontrolled dampness can lead to mold growth, causing health issues and damage to your property. You need to look for signs inside of mold which can include seeing mold growing, musty smells, peeling wall paper or damp wet paint when you put your hand on a wall. Additionally, keep an eye out for damp patches or water stains on walls and ceilings. Outside look for exterior paint peeling, loose mortar, crumbling bricks, missing or repaired render, sodden woodwork (e.g. window/door frames) and watermarks on external walls (in particular look around drainage pipes). It is important to check the property for damp as if severe enough, it can cause structural issues and make the property un-mortgageable.
3. Plumbing & Drainage
It’s important to test the taps, showers, and toilets to ensure they are in good working order. Do all the taps work & what is the water pressure like? Does the toilet flush well & do sinks/baths drain well? Inside check for leaks under sinks & around any pipework (particularly around radiator valves. Outside are the gutters & downpipes all present and are they in good working condition. If possible, ask about the age and condition of the plumbing system, as outdated pipes can be prone to issues.
4. Heating & Insulation
When viewing a property make sure to ask about the type of heating system, how old it is & whether it has been recently repaired. Test radiators and hot water. This is a good time to inquire about the property’s energy efficiency (all estates have a legal requirement to provide you with an Energy Performance Certificate to confirm this) & any insulation measures in place.
5. Electrical Systems & Lighting
Are there sockets in every room & are they practically located? Check the fuse box and electrical outlets. This is particularly important in older properties where electrical systems may need updating to accommodate modern demands. Does every room have adequate lighting & are there enough switches? Ask how old the wiring is & when it was last inspected. It’s important to consider this as it is expensive to re-wire a property if the electrical systems aren’t up to your standards.
6. Flooring
Consider the type of flooring & its condition. For example, does the carpet need replacing? Make sure to walk up any stairs considering how the floor feels & whether there is any unevenness or noises.
7. Security & Safety
Assess the property’s security features, such as locks on doors and windows. If there is an alarm system, ask about its functionality. Also, check for smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, both of which are essential for your safety.
8. Noise Levels & Location
Whilst inside the property spend some time in each room considering the outside noise levels. At this stage it’s a good time to review windows to see if they are in good condition or will need renovating/replacing. Then outside the property make sure to spend some time around the property to get a sense of the neighbourhood’s noise levels. Make sure to consider proximity to main roads, airports or other potentially noisy areas. This will help you determine if the location suits your lifestyle and preferences!
9. Access & Outside space
Make sure to check the property & nearby areas for any invasive weeds such as Japanese knotweed, as these can make a property un-mortgageable. In addition, the growth rate of these kinds of weeds can potentially cause structural damage! When looking around the outside space of a property make sure to consider if there is enough access to the property for your needs (including any large furniture) and if there is enough storage space (e.g. for bikes/garden shed/bins).
10. Roof & Roof Space
Lastly, make sure to consider the roof when viewing a property. Are there any missing or slipped tiles? Does it look like it’s covered in moss? If possible try to review the roof space to see if it’s insulated. Pay attention for any signs of rodents (i.e. droppings or chewings) & any signs of leaks. Most roof spaces won’t be lit so remember to take a torch!
What to do if you find problems when viewing a property?
If you do discover any external/internal issues when viewing a property this is not necessarily the “end of the world”. Lots of issues can be rectified but it is important to understand the extent of any issues & the cost associated with rectifying it. Ask the owner/agent for any history on the problem and their proposed solution. In addition, we would always suggest you arrange a second viewing with an experienced builder or surveyor who can advise you on any issues.
Viewing a property is an exciting step in finding your next home. However, it’s essential to approach the process with a critical eye. By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision and avoid potential surprises after moving in. Remember, a little vigilance now can save you time, money, and headaches later on!
We understand that the number of things to look out for can feel overwhelming. If you’d like someone to attend a property viewing with you to give you more confidence or help you look out for potential issues, using Doormarked you can find a local property professional who offers a property viewing service. Similarly, sometimes it isn’t possible to attend a viewing for logistical reasons (trying to get the time-off work can be difficult). A property professional local who offers property viewings would be able to do this for you. You’re not alone!
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