House inspection: 10 things to check before investing in real estate

Before diving into real estate investment, ensure a thorough house inspection. Check for structural integrity, waterproofing, and signs of water damage to safeguard your investment for the future and avoid complications.

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Before investing in real estate, you must evaluate the worth of the property through a thorough assessment of the property’s quality and safety. For this purpose, you might also need a house inspection by an expert.

Knowing what to look for during a house inspection can also determine a successful real estate investment. Read on to learn more about the factors to consider.
 

A comprehensive checklist for inspection
 

Here is a list of things to check during the house inspection stage,

• Foundation stability 
  
  Check for cracks and unevenness in the foundation, which could indicate structural issues.
   
• Roof and terrace condition
  
  Assess the overall integrity of the roofing system. Check for cracks, damaged concrete, and signs of water penetration.
   
• Walls and ceiling solidity
  
  Look for cracks, water stains, or bulges that indicate water damage and deterioration.
   
• Plumbing and electrical systems
  
  Test taps, toilets, and drains for leaks and normal functioning. Ensure switches, outlets, and fuses are working properly.
   
• Exterior walls and siding
  
  Look for cracks, rot, or pest infestation that could compromise structural integrity.
   
• Windows and doors
  
  Check for proper sealing, functioning, and signs of water infiltration around the frames.
   
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
  
  Make sure an efficient and safe HVAC system is in place.
   
• Property drainage
  
  Inspect for adequate grading, gutters, and downpipes to drive water away from the foundation.
   
• Safety features
  
  Test smoke detectors and fire escapes, and check for sufficient stair safety.
   
• House waterproofing
  
  Assess the presence of waterproofing measures, especially in bathrooms and wet areas.
   

Importance of ensuring house waterproofing during inspection
 

A durable and stable property makes a good real estate investment. Ensuring waterproofing during house inspection helps in many ways,

• A waterproofed house is more attractive to renters or buyers. This enhances marketability and potentially increases its resale value
   
• Addressing waterproofing issues early on can prevent costly repairs in the future. This saves investors both time and money
   
• Water damage can significantly decrease the value of a property. This may, in turn, deter potential buyers or tenants
   

Other signs of water-related damages
 

Be vigilant of these signs of water-related damages as well when inspecting,

• Mould and mildew
  
  The growth of mould and mildew poses health risks and can cause the deterioration of surfaces.
   
• Standing wate
  
  Puddles or pooling water in basements or around fixtures indicate active leaks or poor drainage.
   
• Dampness and musty odours
  
  A damp odour in a particular area means water infiltration and stagnant moisture.
   

Protect your real estate
 

A thorough house inspection means a more profitable and sustainable real estate investment. For further expertise and waterproofing solutions, reach out to Dr. Fixit by filling out the form given below and equip yourself to make the right choice.
 

FAQs
 

FAQ #1 - Why is house inspection important before investing?
 

A few reasons why house inspection is crucial before investing are –

• Identifying issues – You get a sense of the current and potential aspects that need improvement.
   
• Informed decision-making – It provides insights that help you decide whether to invest.
   
• Budget planning – You can now budget the necessary repair and maintenance tasks.
   
• Safety and security – Any potential structural risks can be addressed before investing.
   

FAQ #2 - How do I waterproof my property?
 

It is advisable to seek help from certified specialists and waterproofing experts. Dr. Fixit, for instance, provides complete waterproofing systems and solutions. They can assess the problem and help you plan each step of the waterproofing process.
 

FAQ #3 - How does waterproofing affect the value of a property?
 

The value of a property depends on numerous factors. The property’s lifespan, stability, aesthetics, and indoor environmental quality are some of the main ones. A waterproofed house ensures that these characteristics remain at desirable levels for investors. And that is how house waterproofing increases the property’s value.