Steps
- Keep an eye out for cracking. Patched and painted internal walls are a sure sign of a cover up, as are external walls concealed behind plants or trellis.
- Remember damp can be a huge problem. It can rise from the ground, come down from the roof or seep out through internal walls due to plumbing problems. You might smell it before you see it, or it may be hidden behind a coat of paint or furniture pushed against the walls.
- Keep in mind that termites, borers and timber rot can all cause structural problems. Watch out for floor damage that's been patched and concealed under carpet, crumbly skirting boards, or weather boards and window sills that have been patched and painted.
- Have a look at the roof. Not many people look at their roof on a regular basis so watch for rusty metal that has been painted, tiles patched with lead or damaged roof framing propped up in the roof space.
- Get under the house. Check for damp that will affect timber sub-floor or stumps, or floors that are temporarily propped to prevent bouncing.
- Have a look at gutters and downpipes. These can be costly to replace so make sure you don't have any rust that's been painted over.
- Note that faulty and illegal wiring or plumbing can be expensive to replace, or if not noticed, can cause a legal nightmare if tenants are involved. These need to be professionally checked and replaced or repaired immediately.
Tips
- Before you buy, get a professional building and pest inspection. This will save you money in the long run and reduce the risk of unexpected repairs.
Sources and Citations
- Some information from this article taken from http://www.yipmag.com.au
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