Buyers use plenty of tricks during a property inspection to look for any flaws in their potential new home.
Some open and shut cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms, while others stare at the ceiling above the bathroom to spot dampness, or inspect under the sinks to look for water damage.
Paintwork at floor level preoccupies buyers looking for signs of dreaded rising damp. And others simply wander around to get the vibe and visualise living there.
One aspect of a home often forgotten during an inspection is the availability of power sockets.
It seems like a minor issue, but the inability to access power where you need it can be a source of ongoing frustration.
This list will help you know what to look for.
Kitchen
There’s no area of the home where access to power is more important. You should be able to plug in gadgets in at least two locations on the benchtop to have a workable layout. You may need to upgrade your mains power if you want to install an induction cooktop.
Bathrooms
Ensure a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet exists in bathrooms for safety. You’ll want outlets for hair dryers, shavers and to charge electric toothbrushes.
Living room
You should note whether power sockets are available in locations where you’d likely place your TV and internet connection.
Home office
Convenient access to multiple power sockets will help avoid putting a power strip of multiple plugs into one socket. Sockets with USB inlets are handy for charging phones and tablets.
Bedrooms
Power sockets on either side of a double bed are the ideal solution. You don’t want to be running electric cables under beds or across the room.
Laundry
There should be obvious access to power near the water outlets for the washing machine, along with the dryer. It’s also worth checking if there is a power outlet that will let you use an iron easily.
Outdoors
Outdoor-rated outlets will offer power for external lighting for an entertainment area, and also power tools. They should have weatherproof covers.
Garage
The garage is becoming an increasing focus for power needs, with many homeowners beginning to consider an EV charging station. You also want sufficient power
access for tools.