Building Inspection Report: 3 Important Precautions Before Purchasing A House
If you have decided to invest in a home, plan for a building inspection before completing the transaction. Often, buyers do not consider practical issues when their offer is accepted by the seller. As a result, they overlook some critical issues which can cause financial losses. For instance, it is not uncommon for a house to look outwardly perfect despite underlying structural defects. A building inspection report will reveal these problems and allow you to make an informed decision. Here are critical tips to keep in mind for a good outcome for the assessment.
Know the Standards
The most common pitfall during a house purchase is building code violations. In general, there are rules and regulations established on the construction of every aspect of a house. The goal is to ensure that the owners and the public are not in danger due to structural faults. Usually, the standards are in the form of minimum requirements for safety. You must ensure that the house you intend to purchase does not violate the code. Do not purchase a house with compliance problems because fixing the mistakes can be costly. Moreover, you could fall into legal complications if the violations cause injuries. Also, ensure the building was approved after the initial construction, and any renovations were conducted after the acquisition of appropriate permits.
Consider Structural Damage
You should check for structural damage that could shorten the service life of the house. In simple terms, the original building might meet the appropriate construction standards. However, over time, the house might have deteriorated, making it an unsuitable investment. Therefore, consider the wear and tear before completing the property-purchase process. The most dangerous issue to address is termite damage. Termites feed on the wooden elements in the house and can leave an empty shell after an invasion. If the house is built with wooden footings, trusses and frames, it can collapse due to termites. Another common problem is moisture damage. Your inspector should look for signs like staining, mould, mildew and general drainage complications.
Check Repair Costs
Finally, you should review the building inspection report and determine whether the house is a good investment or not. The documentation of the findings is not usually overly technical. However, if you are not certain about the contents, you can discuss the details with your chosen inspector. The most critical aspect to assess is the recommendations made by the professional. Calculate the costs of the indicated repairs and decide if the house is a worthwhile investment.