Complete Checklist for Buying a Home: Inspections and More

 1. Legal and Documentation Checks

– Title Deeds: Confirm ownership and ensure there are no disputes over the property.

– Property Survey: Conduct a structural survey (e.g., homebuyers report or full structural survey) to identify any physical issues.

– Planning Permissions and Building Regulations Compliance: Verify that any renovations or extensions have the necessary permissions and meet building regulations.

– Local Authority Searches: Check for any local planning issues, road schemes, or other factors that might affect the property.

– Environmental Searches: Assess potential risks such as flooding, land contamination, or subsidence.

 2. Utility and Safety Checks

– Gas Safety Check:

  – Obtain a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) to ensure all gas appliances and fittings, including the boiler, are safe and compliant.

  – Conduct a boiler inspection to confirm it’s in good working condition and has been serviced regularly.

– Electrical Safety Check:

  – Obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to assess the safety of the electrical system.

  – Verify that all electrical work complies with the latest building regulations.

– Water and Plumbing Check:

  – Inspect plumbing for leaks, water pressure, and overall condition.

  – Ensure that drainage systems are functioning properly.

– Central Heating System Check:

  – Confirm that the heating system (including radiators, underfloor heating, etc.) is working efficiently.

– Insulation Check:

  – Assess the level and quality of insulation in the property.

 3. Pest Inspection

– Check for any signs of pest infestations (e.g., termites, rodents) that could affect the property’s condition.

 4. Energy Efficiency

– Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Obtain the EPC to understand the property’s energy efficiency rating and potential areas for improvement.

 5. Fire Safety Check

– Verify the presence and functionality of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

– Ensure there are proper fire safety measures in place (e.g., fire extinguishers, escape routes).

 6. Insurance Requirements

– Building Insurance: Ensure that building insurance is in place from the date of exchange.

– Contents Insurance: Arrange for contents insurance as needed.

 7. Other Inspections and Checks

– Boundary and Land Survey: Confirm the exact boundaries of the property.

– Tree and Root Survey: Assess the impact of any nearby trees on the property structure.

– Neighbouring Property Checks: Investigate the condition of neighbouring properties, especially if they share walls or structures (party walls).

 8. Move-in Preparations

– Meter Readings: Record initial gas, electricity, and water meter readings.

– Utility Transfers: Arrange for the transfer or setup of utility accounts (gas, electricity, water, internet, etc.).

 9. Handover and Completion

– Final Walkthrough: Conduct a final inspection just before completion to ensure no damage has occurred since the initial checks.

– Completion Statement: Review the completion statement from your solicitor, which outlines all costs associated with the purchase.