You might think a long-term maintenance plan is only for commercial buildings or apartment blocks but it can also help you keep on top of home maintenance. This can help avoid surprise repair bills and help your property retain its value. Using your property inspection report for a long-term maintenance plan is a good starting point.
Three ways you can use your property inspection report for a long term maintenance plan
It highlights any major areas that might need work
A pre-purchase house inspection covers lots of areas that you might not easily be able to access, like the roof and under the house if it is on piles. Your property inspection will give you a baseline for the condition of these areas. This will help inform you whether the work is urgent or whether you can schedule in the next year or two. If the report is really bad you may even consider not buying in the first place. For example, a major roof leak might put you off the sale. A minor one might not but will need fixing promptly. But a few loose nails could probably wait until you’ve saved some money after moving in.
It highlights areas that might not be up to the current building code
Homes built a while ago may have some building standards that were ok then but wouldn’t meet code now. A good example of this is decking. This often butts up to the property in older buildings in a way that is no longer acceptable. While you don’t necessarily need to deal with these immediately, you may consider upgrading them especially if you are having renovation work done.
It may give you an idea of what maintenance to do
Often the pre-purchase inspection will give you clues or even explicit advice on the best way to carry out maintenance. For example, gutter cleaning might be recommended or the type of roof repairs mentioned. You can use this advice to form the basis of your long term maintenance plan. Of course, you might not be able to do all the work yourself but you will be able to get accurate quotes.
InnoHome offers detailed property inspections across Auckland
We carry out pre-purchase inspections across Auckland with a detailed written report provided within 24 hours. If you already own a property but have concerns about we can carry out a building inspection including moisture testing to determine any issues.
To book an inspection get in touch.