Finding a home you like is exciting. The layout seems perfect, light streams in through the windows, and you’re already starting to imagine what it will be like to live there. However, before making such an important decision, it’s worth setting your emotions aside for a moment and assessing the property objectively.
Having a technical inspection of the property carried out before buying is one of the best investments any buyer can make. In this article, we’ll tell you what aspects you should check to ensure a safe purchase and avoid any surprises in the future.
Why is it important to have a technical survey carried out on the property before buying a home?
Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions we make in our lives. A technical survey of the property enables you to identify any potential defects, ascertain its true condition and obtain objective information to help you negotiate the price or decide whether it is really worth going ahead with the purchase.
At Winnor, we know that buying a home is not just about finding the ideal property, but also about ensuring that the investment is the right one.
Key points to consider before buying
Although every property is different, there are a number of factors that are always worth considering before making a decision.
1. La orientación y la luz natural
The orientation of a property has a direct impact on its comfort levels and also on energy consumption.
A property facing south or south-east usually enjoys greater natural light for much of the day, which helps to reduce costs for lighting and heating during the winter. Conversely, north-facing properties can be colder and require more energy, although they may stay cooler during the summer heat.
During your viewing, it is also advisable to check:
- The amount of light each room receives.
- Whether there are any nearby buildings that block out light.
- The home’s natural ventilation.
WinnorTip: If possible, visit the property and its surroundings at different times of the day. Your impression can vary greatly between a visit at midday and one at sunset.
2. Thermal and acoustic insulation
One of the most common problems after buying a property is discovering that the insulation isn’t as good as it seemed. Poor insulation leads to higher heating and air-conditioning bills, as well as allowing outside noise to seep in.
Some aspects worth checking include:
- The condition of the windows (whether they are double-glazed or have Climalit glazing).
- The condition of the shutters and window frames.
- Any draughts.
- Noise from traffic, pubs, schools or leisure areas.
It is also advisable to check the property’s energy rating, as this gives a fairly accurate indication of its energy efficiency.
3. Installations: electricity and plumbing
The fixtures and fittings are often hidden from view, which is precisely why they can lead to so many surprises after the purchase.
A technical inspection of the property should check, amongst other things:
Electrical installation
- Condition of the fuse box.
- Presence of up-to-date residual current devices and circuit breakers.
- Number and layout of sockets.
- Age of the electrical installation.
Plumbing
- Water pressure.
- Condition of pipes and stop valves.
- Possible leaks or damp.
- Functioning of toilets and cisterns.
It is also advisable to check the heating system, the boiler, the air conditioning and any other installations forming part of the property.
4. Structural condition of the property
Not all cracks are a problem, but some may indicate significant structural damage.
During the technical inspection of the property, it is advisable to check for:
- Cracks in walls and ceilings.
- Water damage.
- Uneven floors.
- The condition of the façade.
- The roof (where possible).
- The condition of terraces and balconies.
A professional technical survey can examine over a hundred different points relating to the safety and condition of the property, enabling potential risks to be identified before purchase.
5. Homeowners’ association and potential additional charges
When we buy a flat, we’re not just buying a home; we also become part of a homeowners’ association.
That’s why it’s important to find out about its financial situation before signing.
Some questions worth asking are:
- What is the monthly service charge?
- Are there any approved or planned additional charges?
- Are there any residents with outstanding payments?
- What is the state of the homeowners’ association’s accounts?
- Have any major works been carried out recently?
Requesting the minutes of the last general meeting can provide a great deal of information about potential problems with the building and future expenses.
Beyond housing: a comprehensive audit provides a holistic view
A technical inspection of the property is essential, but a truly secure purchase goes one step further.
A comprehensive audit may include other analyses that help you gain an in-depth understanding of the property.
Technical audit
This involves an on-site inspection during which over a hundred potential risk areas are checked: electrical installations, plumbing, damp, external walls, windows, structure and accessibility, amongst other aspects.
Legal audit
This allows you to check for any encumbrances, pending legal disputes, land registry issues or situations that could affect the new owner. It also reviews aspects relating to the owners’ association, insurance and certain taxes.
Financial analysis
It is not enough simply to know the purchase price. It is also advisable to calculate what investments will be necessary in the short and medium term to maintain the property in good condition. This information is very useful when negotiating the final price.
Report on neighbours and the homeowners’ association
Understanding the atmosphere within the building also helps you make better decisions. Knowing whether there are neighbourly disputes, unpaid fees, short-term lettings or activities that might affect communal living provides a much more comprehensive picture.
Neighbourhood report
The surrounding area is just as important as the property itself. Factors such as noise levels, ease of parking, the presence of green spaces, safety and the services available will shape your quality of life for many years to come.
Making an informed decision with Winnor
It’s easy to fall in love with a property on your first visit, but buying with confidence means looking beyond the décor or a good first impression.
A technical inspection of the property and a comprehensive survey allow you to understand the property’s true condition, anticipate potential costs and make decisions with all the information on the table.
At Winnor, we believe that a good purchase begins long before the contract is signed. That’s why we analyse every detail of the properties we offer you, answer all your questions and provide objective information to help you turn a dream into a sound investment.
