- Inspect in daylight and take photos of every problem.
- Test water, power, locks, windows, drainage and signs of damp or cracks.
- For a purchase, hire a qualified professional to inspect the structure.
The Short Answer
Inspect a home before you pay, in daylight, and take your time. Most costly problems, such as leaks, cracks, poor wiring or drainage, can be spotted if you know where to look. Take photos, make notes and ask the owner to fix or explain problems in writing before you sign. For a purchase, hire a qualified professional to inspect the structure.
What to Bring
Bring a phone with a torch and camera, a charger to test sockets, a small bucket or bottle of water, a notebook and, if possible, a friend or professional. Visit in daylight so you can see cracks and stains. If the place is rented, ask for the previous inspection record or photos.
Room-by-Room Checklist
| Area | What to check |
|---|---|
| Outside | Roof condition, gutters, boundary wall, gate, drainage, compound security |
| Walls and ceilings | Cracks, damp patches, peeling paint, signs of leaks |
| Doors and windows | They open, close and lock properly, with working nets or burglar bars |
| Electrical | Sockets, switches, fuse board, meter and any exposed or burnt wiring |
| Plumbing | Water pressure, taps, leaks under sinks, toilet flush, water heater and tank |
| Kitchen | Cabinets, sink, gas or cooker connections and ventilation |
| Floors | Level, cracked or loose tiles, and any hollow sounds |
| Safety | Smoke alarm, fire exit, secure fencing, lighting at night |
Test, Do Not Assume
Run taps and flush toilets, switch lights on and off, plug a charger into several sockets, open and close every door and window and look under sinks. Check that the water drains quickly. Ask when the roof was last repaired and how the area copes with heavy rain.
Take Photos and Put Promises in Writing
Photograph every problem with the date. If the owner agrees to repair something, write it into the agreement with a deadline. Use our tenancy agreement checklist when you rent.
If You Are Buying
A buyer should hire a registered engineer, builder or surveyor to inspect the structure, check the foundation, roof and services and give a written report. Do this before you pay the final instalment. Also verify the title using our land document guide, and consider the neighbourhood by using our neighbourhood checklist.
Decide With a Clear Head
Do not let anyone hurry you. Compare the repair costs with the price or rent, and negotiate if needed. If the problems are serious or the owner will not answer questions, walk away.
Action Checklist
- Inspect in daylight and bring a torch and charger
- Check the roof, walls, ceilings and floors for damage
- Test taps, toilets, lights, sockets, doors and windows
- Look for damp, cracks and signs of leaks
- Photograph problems and write down agreed repairs
- Hire a professional to inspect a property you plan to buy
- Walk away if serious problems are not explained or fixed
