If you have hired a property conveyancer in the past, you have probably heard them talk about property inspections. The inspection is a crucial aspect of the property exchange process. So, what are property inspections, and why are they so important? Continue reading for insights.
What Are Property Inspections?
During the first home visit, you might not have an opportunity to examine the property thoroughly. Besides, other buyers will be viewing the property; hence, you might not have a chance to ask the real estate agent technical and legal questions. Ideally, the property inspection is one of the contingencies in the contract of sale. As such, you can cancel the contract if you find out the property is different from what the seller or their agent advertised.
What Are The Benefits of Property Inspections?
The first benefit of a property inspection is that it enables you to determine whether the plot size indicated in the title corresponds with the actual land size. Small deviations are acceptable; however, if the sizes differ significantly, the current landowner could have encroached on neighbouring land or vice versa.
The soil conditions on the property you intend to buy can significantly affect your purchasing decision. For instance, clay soils are known to complicate the construction process and weaken the structure. Moreover, if the plot sits on a reclaimed landfill, it would not be a wise move to conduct deep excavation works. The property inspection gives these insights to ensure you know what you are buying into.
How strong is the building you plan to buy? Is it built according to the standards prescribed in the building code? Has it been renovated since construction? If so, what is the impact of these renovations on the overall structural integrity of the house? As a buyer, you may not have the skills required to determine the answers to these questions. However, your building inspector examines the building's blueprints and the condition of structural features to determine if it has structural defects that could put the lives of future occupants at risk. Moreover, the inspector informs you whether the building complies with the current construction standards. Finally, the professional examines the structure's ability to withstand natural disasters like flooding or storms.
Pest infestations can make your life unbearable. Therefore, the building inspector conducts a thorough pest inspection to determine whether the property contains termites, rodents, cockroaches, and spiders. If it does, they will recommend pest treatment before you move into the property or advise you against buying the property if the infestation is too severe. Look into conveyancing for more information.
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