Viewing a house can be exciting, but it’s easy to get distracted by stylish interiors, fresh paint and how the space could look once you’ve moved in. While these things matter, it’s just as important to look beyond the décor and check the condition of the property and its surroundings.
A viewing is your opportunity to spot potential problems; ask questions and get a better idea of any costs you may face further down the line.
Start with the location
You can change the décor of a house, but you can’t change its location, so take some time to consider the area before getting caught up in the property itself.
Noise and surrounding properties
If possible, visit the area at different times of day to get a feel for traffic, nearby businesses, schools and general noise levels. A quiet afternoon viewing may feel very different during the morning or evening.
Also consider neighbouring properties, how close they are and whether they overlook the house or garden.
Transport and amenities
Check nearby bus stops, train stations and main roads, and consider how practical your daily commute would be. If you drive, look at parking options and whether they are convenient.
Think about local amenities too, including supermarkets, GP surgeries, parks, leisure facilities and schools. These can make a real difference to everyday life and may also influence the property’s future appeal.
Check the exterior
The outside of a property can give you an early indication of its condition and any maintenance that may be needed.
Roof, chimneys, and guttering
Look for missing or broken roof tiles and any areas that appear uneven or sagging. Check chimney stacks for crumbling brickwork or mortar.
Guttering should be secure and free from obvious cracks or blockages. Poor drainage can allow water to run down external walls, potentially causing damp and damage.
Brickwork and cracks
Look for cracks, loose mortar and discolouration in brickwork or render. Small hairline cracks can be part of normal settling, but wider or diagonal cracks may need further investigation. If you notice anything concerning, consider asking a qualified professional for advice.
Windows, doors, and garden
Open windows and doors where possible to check that they operate properly and fit securely. Poorly fitting frames can cause draughts, heat loss and security concerns.
Check whether the property has double glazing and consider whether older windows may need replacing in the future.
In the garden, look at the condition of fences, walls and hedges, and make sure you understand where the boundaries are. Also consider how much maintenance the garden will require and whether the space feels private enough.
Look Beyond the Décor
Once inside, focus on the condition of the property rather than simply how it looks.
Damp, mould, and condensation
Check around windows, skirting boards, cupboards and behind furniture for dark patches, mould, peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint. A musty smell can also be a warning sign.
If you notice anything unusual, ask whether the property has had previous damp or water-related problems.
Walls, ceilings, and floors
Look for cracks, stains and signs of previous leaks on walls and ceilings. Pay attention to floors too, any significant unevenness or sloping may be worth investigating.
Make a note of any rooms that need decorating, new flooring, or other work so you can factor these costs into your budget.
Check the heating, electrics, and plumbing
Some of the most important checks involve things you can’t easily see, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Boiler and heating
Ask for recent boiler service records and find out how old the boiler is, when it was last serviced and whether it is still under warranty. An older or inefficient heating system could mean higher energy and repair costs.
Electrics
Check that visible sockets and switches look secure and undamaged, and take a look at the fuse box. Ask whether the electrics have been inspected or safety checked recently, particularly in an older property.
Plumbing and drainage
Ask about any known leaks, slow drains or recurring plumbing problems. Look under sinks and around visible pipework for signs of leaks or previous water damage.
Make a note of potential costs
As you walk around, keep track of anything that may need repairing, replacing or updating. Small jobs can quickly add up, while issues such as an ageing boiler, roof repairs or outdated electrics could involve a much larger expense.
Having a clear list can help you budget realistically and, where appropriate, give you useful information when negotiating the purchase price.
Ask questions and take your time
A viewing is your opportunity to find out as much as possible, so ask the seller or estate agent about anything that concerns you. Find out about previous repairs, maintenance and any known issues rather than making assumptions.
Most importantly, don’t feel pressured to decide on the spot. Take your time, look carefully and consider whether the property works for you both now and in the future.
Why get a home survey?
A viewing can only tell you so much. Many defects are not immediately visible and may require professional knowledge to identify.
A home survey provides an independent assessment of the property’s condition and can highlight problems such as damp, structural movement, roof defects or other issues that could be costly to repair.
Find out more about our survey options here, or request a quote!