Buying a home in Auckland: What You Can Check Before Calling the Pros

Introduction:

Buying a home is a significant investment, and ensuring its condition is paramount. While professional property inspections in Auckland is crucial, there are several things you can check yourself before calling in the pros. This DIY home inspection guide will help you identify potential issues and understand when it’s time to seek professional help.

1.Check the Exterior:

Start with a walk around the property. Look for cracks in the foundation, damaged or missing roof tiles, and peeling paint. Check if the gutters and downspouts are securely attached and clear of debris. Don’t forget to inspect the condition of windows and doors for any signs of rot or damage.

2.Inspect the Interior:

Inside the house, look for signs of water damage, like stains on ceilings and walls. Check floors for any unevenness, which could indicate foundation issues. Test all light switches and electrical outlets, and don’t overlook the condition of the flooring. This Auckland council’s guide also informs you where the flooding in 2023 occurred, which caused a lot of houses to suffer water damage.

 

3.Assess the Plumbing:

Run all taps to check water pressure and hot water functionality. Look under sinks for any signs of leaks or water damage. Don’t forget to flush toilets to ensure they are functioning correctly and to check for any leaks.

4.Evaluate the HVAC System:

Test the heating and air conditioning systems to ensure they are working efficiently. Listen for any unusual noises and check for any unpleasant odors when they are running. Your HVAC system must be designed, operated and maintained to a required standard or it may cause air pollution as a result of poor maintenance.

5.Look for Mold and Pests:

Be on the lookout for signs of mold, which can often be found in damp areas like bathrooms and basements. Also, keep an eye out for any evidence of pests, such as droppings or damaged wood.

 

When to Call in the Pros:

While these DIY tips can help you spot obvious issues, many problems require a professional eye. More over banks would require a professional property inspection report as a criteria for your lending application. Apart from that, here’s when you should call in the experts:

• If you notice significant cracks in the foundation or walls.
• If there are signs of serious water damage or mold.
• For a thorough assessment of the electrical and plumbing systems.
• To ensure the HVAC system is up to code and functioning safely.
• If you suspect the presence of asbestos or lead paint in older homes.

Conclusion:

A DIY inspection can give you a good overview of a property’s condition, but it’s not a substitute for a professional inspection. For peace of mind and a thorough evaluation, it’s always best to call in experienced property inspectors like those at Honeycomb Construction. With their expertise, you can ensure that your potential new home is safe, sound, and a wise investment.

Some samples from our report: