If you’re buying your first property or renting a new apartment in Nigeria, it’s important that you conduct a home inspection. It helps you avoid costly surprises, unsafe living conditions, and long-term maintenance issues. In this article, we’ll talk about what to look for at a home inspection, so you get value for your money and the comfort you desire.
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What is Checked in a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of a building’s condition. Ideally, it focuses on both the visible and functional aspects. If you’re wondering what is checked in a home inspection, here’s a breakdown of the key areas:
- Structural integrity (walls, ceilings, foundation)
- Roof condition
- Plumbing systems
- Electrical systems
- Doors and windows
- Ventilation and dampness
- Pest infestation
- General safety features
Let’s dive deeper into the most important areas you should pay close attention to.
Structural Integrity
One thing to look for is the condition of the building’s structure. You should check for cracks in walls or ceilings, sagging floors, and signs of foundation settling (downward movement of a house’s foundation).
Older homes or buildings constructed with substandard materials often have these issues, and they are expensive to fix.
Roof and Ceiling
Roof damage can lead to leaks and costly repairs. To avoid the problems associated with this, look for signs of leakage on the ceilings, and check if the roofing sheets are rusty or poorly fastened.
Also, inquire about the age of the roof, especially if the building is over 10 years old.
Roof condition is crucial for homes in places like Lagos or Port Harcourt, where rainfall can be unforgiving in exposing such problems.
Home Inspection Electrical Issues
A major part of what to look for at a home inspection is the electrical system. Electrical faults are not only inconvenient but also dangerous. So, during your inspection, check for exposed or outdated wiring, circuit breakers that are functional and labelled, and working sockets and switches.
Overloaded power outlets may also be a problem.
You may want to hire a qualified electrician to assist you with taking a look at electrical connections. Home inspection electrical issues are one of the most overlooked but potentially life-threatening problems in Nigerian homes.
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Plumbing and Water Supply
Inconsistent water flow and leaking pipes are common in many Nigerian properties. If they are extensive, they could cause much discomfort and result in recurring plumbing problems.
You can avoid this by checking water pressure in taps and showers, looking under sinks for leaks, and inspecting water tanks and borehole systems. Don’t forget to ask about the reliability of the water supply as well. Do these things before deciding whether to buy/rent a home.
Also, check if the toilet flushes properly and confirm that drains aren’t clogged.
Ventilation and Dampness
Poor ventilation can cause mould growth and health issues. Things like musty smells (indicating mould), damp patches on walls or floors, and condensation on windows are all red flags. If they are present, it’s probably not a good idea to buy or rent the home affected.
You will want to avoid the discomfort and health issues that may arise from overlooking these concerns.
Doors, Windows, and Security
Security should be the top priority for any homeowner or tenant. If you want a home that’s relatively safe, you should ensure that doors and windows open and close smoothly, and that locks are secure and not rusted.
In addition to these, make sure that burglar-proofing is present and not compromised, and inspect the external gates and fencing for vulnerabilities.
Pests and Infestation
Termites, cockroaches, and rats are common pests in Nigerian homes. These things indicate their presence:
- Droppings or nests
- Termite mud tubes on walls or wood
- Holes or gnawed wires
Don’t hesitate to request a fumigation if you’re planning to move in.
Environmental Factors
Ask yourself these questions: Is the house prone to flooding? Is the area noisy or polluted? Are there good access roads?
Never overlook the neighbourhood in which your home is situated. Even if the home passes every test, it might amount to very little if its location has many problems.
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Final Words
If you know what to look for at a home inspection, you’ll save yourself from future headaches, financial loss, and unsafe living conditions. Take your time to inspect the property, or hire a professional to help with that.
Be thorough with home inspection, electrical issues, plumbing, structural soundness, and pest control. This increases the likelihood that you’ll secure a home that satisfies you.
If you’re looking to rent or buy a home in the most convenient way possible, you can check out the ones listed on Connect Nigeria Real Estate. There, you’ll find hundreds of homes for sale or rent, along with descriptions and the contact information of owners or agents.
See what’s on offer from Connect Nigeria Real Estate HERE.
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