What to look for when viewing a property

When viewing a property, always make sure to ask all the relevant questions before making a decision about buying or renting. Here are the top issues to raise when inspecting the building:

1. Structure

Search for any cracks in the external walls and be extra vigilant around windows and doors. After that, check the internal walls too. As a guideline, look for cracks wider than 2/3mm - they could be an issue. Hairline or plaster cracks are in a vast majority of houses and are not as worrying. It could be a cause for concern if there is visible wide cracking internally and externally,

2. Roof

Before entering the property that you are viewing, examine the roof, chimney, gutters, eaves, and valley flashing. Slipped or missing slates can cause dampness in the building and could rot the timbers. The chimney is also a common area for dampness, especially around the lead flashing. The cost of repairs depends on height and access restrictions can be expensive.

3. Attic

Make sure to take a look around the attic if you can. You can inspect any problems as well at the storage space available. There are many potential issues with the roof covering, such as dampness, no backing felt, gaps in the party wall and woodworm, and lack of insulation.

4. Windows

Windows could cause heat loss and could provide potential for mould growth. Check all window seals and look for the date of manufacture for the windows as older double glazed units (15-20 years) usually show signs of deterioration around the seals and condensation could be visible between the panes.

5. Damp

Dampness is often a problem with older buildings, which can be seen in the walls. This issue can be difficult to diagnose and resolve. Peeling wall paper, bubbling plaster work, and musty smells are all signs of dampness. As well as that, rising damp may mean a building defect or non existent damp proof course. Repairs for this are expensive and a specialist contractor is required.

6. Electrics

The fuse board tends to be located in the entrance hall. Take a look at it and observe the condition of the electrics. Ceramic style fuses usually need to, at a minimum, be upgraded. Twisted cabling going to the light fittings sometimes mean a full electrical rewire is required. A modern fusebox with neat, labelled trip switches is a good indication that the electrics are fine, however it is still advised to get your electrics checked every few years.

Happy house hunting!

Source: isurv.ie