Have you inspected the property before signing on the dotted line !!

 Have you inspected the property before signing on the dotted line !!

Just visiting the place and pointing out a few cracks aren’t enough. A thorough home inspection is important for a smooth stay

Jayanthi and her husband Kannan recently bought a home in Chennai. During our conversation with them, we asked if they conducted a home inspection before making their big purchase. And their reaction was, “Oh! What’s that? Is it even legal?” On educating them that, though not quite popular yet, it is legal to get a home inspection done before or just after you sign the deal. They said, “We wish we knew that. So far, we haven’t faced any troubles with our new home. But, this seems quite useful and would suggest our friends and family to do the same.”

When you’re out and about exploring the property (for end-use or rent), a broker or sales executive will likely join you. They’ll guide you through the property, and discuss the costs and all, but in this whirlwind, you get a limited chance to properly check out the house yourself.

During a typical site tour, you might notice newly painted walls, yet it’s impossible to inspect the building’s structural quality. You’ll likely see a beautifully maintained home, but the possible presence of leaks or pests won’t be visible. Hence, it’s crucial to make a thorough home inspection your top priority.

Although it is not a popular practice in India, unlike Western countries where it is a regulated industry, there are still a few new-age companies that offer this service. Experts in the sector hope that some government guidelines are formed in India as well to aid homebuyers. “There should also be proper codes and tolerance limits set for the finishing aspects of building construction,” says Venkat, chief business officer of a leading home inspection company.