When you buy a new house, your sale and purchase agreement is likely to include a standard building report clause to arrange builders inspection also known as a pre-purchase house inspection. These inspections check the condition of the house and give you the facts before you finalise the sale.
What to expect from a house inspection?
The idea of getting a whole house checked over can be daunting but the process is usually fairly straightforward. Here are the answers to some common questions about builders inspections.
Does the inspection only cover the inside of the house? No, a builders inspection will look at both the inside and outside of the property. Typically areas covered include:
- Site including drainage
- Subfloor including electrical connections and plumbing
- Roof and flashings
- Exterior including cladding, windows and doors
- Interior – including notes of acceptable wear and tear and damage
Does the house inspection cover looking for leaks or damp? Most standard pre-purchase inspections include non-invasive moisture testing and possibly thermal imaging moisture testing which will indicate any problems. If the problem looks severe you may need to undertake invasive moisture testing for further investigation.
How quickly can a house inspection be done? That might depend on the workload, but at InnoHome we can often offer the same day service.
What do I get at the end of the inspection? In most cases, a written report will be supplied. This will include in-depth comments on all areas covered during the inspection, not just a set of tick-boxes. Choose a verbal report if you need a quicker response. This can then be followed with a written copy.
What can I do with my house inspection? The report may just make up your mind for you about buying the house or not. Inspection reports can be used to negotiate with the vendor. You may ask them to carry out repairs or reduce the price to allow for work. Reports can also be provided for banks or solicitors if required as part of lending agreements.
If you choose to get a house inspection, opt for a professional
While it is possible to insert a clause saying you would like to do your own inspection or get a general builder to do it, a much better option is to get a professional building inspector.
A builders inspection by a trained inspector will be more thorough and they will likely notice things you won’t. When you are looking for an inspector, look for an accredited company who will carry out an inspection to national standards. Builders inspections carried out by trained and experienced individuals will also carry more weight with vendors or with banks and solicitors.
If you need a professional builders inspection carried out, contact us to arrange your appointment today.
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