Looking for a new home is a really exciting experience but it can also be highly stressful. Few of us are property experts and even those who are seasoned in the property market are unlikely to be fully conversant with building pathology.

The first time we look around a potential new home we are focused on the space it provides and how its configuration would work with our family as well as surface features such as décor and fittings. If on the first viewing it ticks the necessary boxes and is a serious contender to purchase it is then essential to re-visit and look a little deeper.

Whilst my best advice would be to always engage a qualified surveyor to provide you with an independent report on the property I thought it might be useful to flag a few things to look for when viewing your potential new home.

Outside

As you approach the property have a lookout for:

  • Trees growing close to the property
  • Saggy/dishing roof
  • Cracks in walls
  • Proximity to water/flood risk
  • Plants that could cause damage or be a health risk

Inside

Once inside the property be on the lookout for:

  • Uneven floors or springy timber floors
  • Cracks to walls and ceilings
  • Patches and discolouration to walls and ceilings
  • Unusual smells/too much air freshener
  • Potentially hazardous building materials

Whilst the existence of any of the above would not prevent you from making a purchase and being very happy in your new home, the remedy for some of them may be costly. If you are aware of potential additional costs at least you can enter negotiations better informed and better prepared.

If you have any questions then do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 014 7528.