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WHAT TO LOOK FOR ... YOUR INITIAL INSPECTION
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FOUNDATIONS: Are there obvious cracks, and/or signs of movement in the foundations?
Is there dampness under the house? Is there adequate ventilation and insulation? |
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ROOF: Does it appear new, old or of an average age? What is the over all condition?
Is there any rust, cracked or dented tiles? |
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LEAKS: Check inside as well as outside.
Check ceilings and areas around windows for staining, discolouration or peeling paint. |
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WORKMANSHIP: In general and in any additions, check to see if the home has had a quick flick of paint.
Are the floors of a sturdy quality? |
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ROOF CAVITY: How does the interior of the roof structure look? Is there any insulation? Dampness? Staining? |
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ELECTRICAL: Any obvious faults with lights or power points? Any uncovered wires?
What is the wiring type? |
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PLUMBING: Any unusual noises or faults, obvious leaks in foundations? Any general wet areas? Check the showers and taps for pressure. |
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APPLIANCE CONDITION*: What is the approximate age and condition of the stove, dishwasher and refrigerator? Do they work? |
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HEATING/VENTILATION*: Is it efficient? When was it last serviced?
How could it be improved? |
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EXTERIOR: Is the house going to need repairs or painting in the near future? Any rot damage? Is the home plumb (level) on the site? |
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SITE: Is there adequate drainage? Does the ground slope away from the home and is it clear of the exterior cladding?
Are there any trees encroaching on the foundations or roof? |
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*We think it is important for you to check these out.
However it is not part of our standard inspection.
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Realsure can answer a lot more with an independent, thorough and comprehensive written Realsure House Inspection Report.
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WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A HOUSE INSPECTION COMPANY
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Choose a reliable house Inspector who has been highly recommended. A personal recommendation is best.
Ensure you are working with an Accredited Building Surveyor. Ask yourself what a reliable inspection is worth - what is at stake? |
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You can get referrals from solicitors, brokers, valuers, friends and colleagues. Inspectors should be well qualified and prepare reports to specified standards. You want the inspection to be thorough. A truly independent housing inspector will not carry out building remedial work.
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| If asking a real estate agent for a referral, it is best to approach an independent one. Call a number of real estate agents to see who they would personally use for inspections, or talk to someone as suggested above. |
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| Once you have the name of a house inspector or inspection company, follow the advice below to ensure you get a thorough and reliable result. |
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QUESTIONS FOR A PROSPECTIVE HOME INSPECTOR OR INSPECTION COMPANY
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| Is your inspector an Accredited Building Surveyor of the Building Officials Institute of New Zealand? An Accredited Building Surveyor is an industry recognised property inspection expert, who WILL comply with New Zealand Standards for property inspections. |
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| Is the company or inspector absolutely independent, or are they associated in some way with a building company, real estate group or other company with a vested interest? |
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| Are inspections their sole work? Beware of building contractors or inspectors who do house inspections on the side - they may be looking for work. |
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| What type of report will they provide you? Will it be written, oral, or both? The New Zealand Standards require a written report to be provided. |
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| What will be included in the inspection? How much detail will it go into? Will the company provide ongoing service and advice? |
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| Do they work to the New Zealand Standards for Property Inspections? (NZS 4306:2005)? |
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| How long will the inspection take? A thorough house inspection should take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of the house. |
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Does the inspector from the inspection company carry insurance?
They must have professional indemnity insurance to be compliant with the New Zealand inspection standard. |
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We quickly supply relevant, accurate and trustworthy information.
Contact us now for building inspections you can rely on
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