The Ultimate Resale Home Inspection Checklist for Properties

Buying a new home is a journey of choices – a new one or a resale home, an apartment or an independent house, in the city or out in the suburbs. There are so many decisions to be made, no matter which option you choose.

If you prefer not to wait to shift into a new home, then a pre-owned property is your best bet.

Buying a resale home in India, whether in Gurgaon or Pune, can be a great investment, but it’s crucial to avoid buying “money pits” – properties that require extensive and expensive repairs shortly after purchase. A freshly painted resale home could be hiding a few defects, which you’ll never know about until the paperwork is done and you have started your new life. And by then, it is usually too late to expect any sort of compensation.

So, what is the right option? Well, it is simple. Ruthlessly and thoroughly, you need to inspect the property – the physical, legal and documentary aspects.

While legal and financial document verification is essential, this guide helps you assess the property’s structural integrity and overall condition. This checklist focuses on the physical condition of the resale home to help you identify potential problems before you commit your money.

I.                   Exterior Assessment

Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, they say. Well, so are the defects, if you look closely. Let’s start with what you need to look out for in a resale home.

Foundation:

Cracks: Look for cracks in the foundation walls. Hairline cracks are usually normal, but wide or jagged cracks can be an indicator of underlying structural issues.

Uneven Settlement: Check if the building appears to be leaning or sinking on one side.

Dampness/Water Stains: Examine the base of the walls for dampness or water stains, which could signal water seepage.

Walls:

Cracks: Similar to the foundation, look for cracks in the exterior walls. Diagonal cracks are particularly concerning.

Bulges or Leaning: Check for any visible bulges or sections that appear to be leaning outwards.

Efflorescence: White, powdery deposits on the walls can indicate moisture problems.

Roof:

Visible Damage: Look for missing tiles, cracks, or sagging areas.

Water Stains: Inspect the underside of the roof (if accessible) for water stains.

Drainage: Ensure that the roof has proper drainage to prevent water accumulation.

Exterior Woodwork :

Rot and Decay: Check wooden window frames, door frames, and other exterior woodwork for signs of rot or insect damage.

Paint Condition: Peeling or blistering paint can indicate moisture problems.

Compound Walls and Fencing:

Stability: Check for leaning or damaged sections.

Cracks: Look for cracks in the walls.

II.                 Interior Assessment

Once you have inspected the exteriors, let’s move inside the resale home. This is what you need to watch out for:

Walls and Ceilings:

Cracks: Check for cracks, especially around windows and doors.

Water Stains/Dampness: Look for water stains on walls and ceilings, which could indicate leaks.

Peeling Paint/Plaster: This can be a sign of moisture problems or poor construction.

Uneven Surfaces: Check for uneven walls or ceilings, which could indicate structural issues.

Floors:

Cracks: Look for cracks in the flooring.

Unevenness: Check for sloping or uneven floors, which could indicate foundation problems.

Loose Tiles/Boards: Check for loose or missing tiles or floorboards.

Doors and Windows:

Operation: Ensure that doors and windows open and close smoothly.

Gaps: Check for gaps around the frames, which can lead to drafts and energy loss.

Damage: Look for damage to the frames or glass.

Bathrooms and Kitchens:

Plumbing Leaks: Check for leaks around faucets, pipes, and fixtures.

Water Damage: Look for water damage around the toilet, shower, and sink.

Drainage: Ensure that sinks and drains drain properly.

Mould/Mildew: Check for mould or mildew growth, which indicates moisture problems.

Electrical System:

Wiring: While you might not be able to see the wiring directly, look for signs of outdated wiring (e.g., old-style switches and outlets).

Functionality: Test all switches and outlets to ensure they are working properly.

Short Circuits: Check for any signs of short circuits, such as flickering lights or tripped circuit breakers.

Plumbing System:

Water Pressure: Check the water pressure in all faucets.

Leaks: Look for leaks under sinks and around toilets.

Rust: Check for rusty pipes, which can indicate corrosion.

III.              Key Areas to Investigate Further

While the above parameters are more or less visible to the naked eye, you should engage a professional to help you check for any signs of the following:

Dampness and Leakage: This is a major concern in Indian resale homes, especially during the monsoon season. Pay close attention to any signs of dampness, water stains, or mould growth.

Structural Integrity: Look for any signs of structural problems, such as cracks, bulges, or uneven settlement.

Electrical and Plumbing Systems: Outdated or poorly maintained systems can be costly to repair or replace.

Wood Rot and Pest Infestation: Check for signs of wood rot, termites, or other pests, which can cause significant damage.

IV.              Questions to Ask the Seller

It is a good idea to engage with the inhabitants of the house. If the owner of the property lives there, then ask the following questions:

Reason for Selling: Understanding why the seller is moving can provide insights into the property’s condition.

History of Repairs: Ask about any past repairs or renovations that have been done.

Known Problems: Inquire about any known problems with the property, such as leaks, cracks, or electrical issues.

Age of the Building: Knowing the age of the building can help you assess its overall condition.

V.                Important Considerations for Indian Properties

India is a vast country, and there are very distinct weather and seasonal variations. As such, do check for the following:

Monsoon Season: Consider the impact of the monsoon season on the property. Look for signs of water damage and ensure that the property has adequate drainage.

Local Building Codes: Check if the resale home complies with local building codes and regulations.

Soil Type: Inquire about the soil type in the area, as this can affect the foundation’s stability.

Proximity to Water Bodies: Properties located near water bodies may be more prone to flooding or dampness.

Disclaimer

While this checklist is a comprehensive beginning when you are thinking of buying a resale home, it is not meant to be a substitute for a professional property inspection.

We highly recommended hiring a qualified and experienced property inspector to conduct a thorough inspection of the resale home before making a decision. Consult with local experts, including engineers and contractors, to get their opinion on the property’s condition.

This checklist focuses on the physical condition of the property. It is essential to verify all legal and financial documents before buying a resale home

Our Final Thoughts

Buying a resale home can be a great deal but remember to do your due diligence.

By using this checklist and seeking professional advice, you can minimize the risk of buying a “money pit” and make a sound investment. Remember to prioritize a thorough inspection and address any concerns before finalizing the deal. Happy house hunting!

And if you need any help, you know you just have to contact Team Save Max.