DIY Home Inspection List: Helpful Tips for Homebuyers

…And how to decide if you need a professional Building Inspection

Buying a property is an exciting journey, but it can also be daunting, especially when it comes to ensuring that your potential new home is in good condition. One of the best ways to prepare is by conducting a basic home inspection yourself. This article will provide you with valuable tips for performing a DIY inspection and explore whether or not you need to hire an expert building inspector. Don’t forget, if you haven’t yet settled on the house, you will need permission from the owner before carrying out the following strategy!

DIY Home Inspection Tips:-

1. Start with the Exterior

• Roof Condition: Look for missing tiles, rusty roof sheeting, sagging areas, or signs of wear. If possible, use binoculars to get a clearer view of the roof from the ground.

• External cladding or brickwork: Inspect the visible cladding/brickwork for any damage. If you notice cracking in brickwork, make a note of the size and direction - it may be indicative of bigger problems in the structure or foundations.

• Doors and Windows: Make sure all the doors and windows are working, and not sticking. If they are sticking it might be a sign that the house is moving, which could relate to something going on with the foundations. Check any timber window frames for moisture, borers, termites, carpenter ants, and signs of wood rot and mould. Make sure all windows open and close smoothly.

2. Foundation, Subfloor and Structural Integrity

• Check for cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, or signs of water intrusion. Get into the sub-floor cavity, and take a good look at the piers and support timbers. Are the piers still supporting the bearers, or have they deteriorated and shrunk to the point where they are no longer in touch with the support structure above?

• Have a close look for termite tracks and timber damage. Are there any ant caps to provide a physical barrier against termite invasion?

• Can you see any leaky plumbing, or disconnected or broken pipes? Remember, it’s important to keep the sub-floor dry and well-ventilated, and excess moisture may attract termites.

3. Next, head inside and have a look around

• Walls and Ceilings: Look for cracks, peeling paint, or water stains that can indicate leaks or structural issues.

• Floors: Walk around the home to check for squeaks, unevenness, or damage to flooring materials such as hardwood or tile.

• Doors: Ensure all doors function properly and that there are no gaps or drafts.

4. Inspect the ‘wet’ areas - Bathrooms & Laundry

• Use a spirit level to check the floors - in these areas, you don’t actually want them to be level, you need them to have a slight slope to the drain to allow any water overflow to get away safely

• Tap the wall and floor tiles, to see if they are securely attached. If they are not, they will sound ‘drummy’ when you tap them.

• Turn the taps on and off quickly to see if they are noisy - a banging sound may indicate ‘water hammer’, ie, loose pipes in the water cavity

• Take a close look around the taps, to check for any signs of water leaking which may necessitate repairs

4. Check the Systems

• Plumbing: Inspect under sinks for leaks, check water pressure, and look for signs of past issues such as water stains or corrosion.

• Electrical: Test outlets for polarity and earth connection with a socket tester, and flip all the light switches to make sure they work. Look for any exposed wires or signs of burning if there is visible wiring in the roof cavity or sub-floor. Do a visual check in the meter box for scorch marks on fuses, or deteriorated switches.

• Heating and Cooling: Check the age and condition of the heating and cooling appliance or systems. Ask if the current owner has any manuals for these. Be prepared to replace air filters if necessary.

5. Evaluate the Roof Cavity

• Climb up into the roof space, and look for signs of moisture, mould, or pests.

• Check if there is any insulation, and if there is make sure all areas are covered, and that it is providing a thick enough layer.

• Look for signs of leaks from the roof. If there is no sarking or insulation directly below the roofing, check the visible backs of the roofing tiles or metal sheeting for any cracks or damage.

• Make sure there is proper ventilation.

6. Make Notes and Take Photos for your records

• Document any concerns you find during your inspection. Taking photos can help you reference issues later, especially when discussing them with your real estate agent or inspector.

• Notes and photos will also help you in an ongoing maintenance program if you do go ahead and buy the house.

So do we still need a building expert?

While conducting your own inspection can help you identify red flags, it’s essential to remember that you may not catch everything, and that even if you do see the symptoms you may not realise the significance of them, unless you are trained in building. Here are key reasons to hire a professional:

• Experience and Knowledge: Building inspectors have extensive training and experience developed over many years. They know what to look for and will quickly spot issues that may go unnoticed by an untrained eye.

• Detailed Reports: An expert inspector will provide a detailed report highlighting not only the problems they find but also their implications. This report can be a powerful and impartial negotiating tool when making an offer.

• Safety Concerns: Professionals are trained to recognize potential safety hazards, such as foundational issues, faulty wiring, structural issues, or moisture issues, which can pose significant risks to you and your family.

• Compliance with Local Codes: Qualified building inspectors are familiar with local, state and national building codes and regulations. They can assess whether the home adheres to these standards, which is vital for long-term safety and value.

• Thermal Imaging: An expert inspector will have a high-end thermal image camera, and know when, where and how to use it. Thermal imaging can be used to check for termite damage (especially if termites are still active) insulation inadequacies, rising damp, moisture damage, among other problems.

• Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance: If your inspector carries both these types of insurance, this will protect both you and the vendor, should anything go wrong!

• Prevent Costly Surprises: A thorough inspection can save you money in the long run. By uncovering issues before you buy, you can avoid unexpected repairs and budget accordingly.

Conclusion

A DIY home inspection can be a great first step in the home-buying process, helping you feel more informed about the property you're considering. However, it’s important not to rely solely on your inspection. Hiring an expert building inspector can provide you with invaluable insight and peace of mind, ensuring that your new home is a safe and wise investment. After all, the aim is not just to find a house, but to find a home that will serve you and your family well for years to come.