Once you have found a condo that ticks all the boxes in terms of size and location, it’s time to double down on the basic inspection and discuss the quality of the opportunity with your agent.
Here’s a shortlist of specific checks you should conduct when you view the property before you make your final offer.
- Check if the electricity works properly, as dodgy wiring can land you with a large bill. Plug in a phone charger for a simple test to see if the electricity flows in good working order. Across the condo, turn on and off each light switch.
- See if the building has proper fire safety equipment installed, including smoke alarms – that’s a legal requirement. See if there is a fire escape plan pinned to the door. If it isn’t, ask whether such a plan even exists.
- Test all the doors and windows to ensure they open and close properly. Assess the state of screens and any blinds. Make sure the seller or their agent has all the correct keys for the doors and windows. Watch out for any lock or handle that is not securely fitted.
- Flush every bathroom, using both the full- and half-flush buttons. Check to see if there is any leaking at the base, or water seeping from the cistern and into the bowl.
- Turn on the taps and wait for the hot water to run through. Watch for whether the water runs clear and the pressure is acceptable. Check the tap seals to ensure they are in good working order. Give the bath, showerhead and their taps a similar work-out.
- Fill up all the sinks to make sure they hold water and do not leak. Signs of leakage will quickly appear underneath.
- In the kitchen, turn on the stove and dishwasher to see if they work.
- If the stove is gas, make sure the burners light up quickly and easily.
- Notice if the flooring in the kitchen is in good order, or will need replacing.
- Give the air-conditioning a blow-through on both the hot and cold settings. Listen for unusual mechanical noises and notice odd odours it might emit, as these will surely be a sign it’s on its last legs.
- Make independent inquiries about the quality of internet access that is available, as a poor connection can be a deal-breaker for many buyers.
- Check for cracks in walls, as these might signify a structural compromise. Inspect the ceilings for any signs of flooding and, with a ground floor condo, take a look around the skirtings of each room for signs of rising damp.