Some of the aspects you should consider when inspecting a property:

OUTSIDE THE HOUSE

• Are there any large trees near the house? The root systems of trees can cause structural subsidence if they are close to the home.
• Inspect fences and gates for stability and rot.
• Check that the land's water runoff drains away from the house.
• Inspect all outside walls. Are they straight, cracked or rotten?
• The condition of the mortar between the bricks must also be assessed.
• Make sure there is adequate sub-floor ventilation.
• Check the condition of the eaves. Water staining may be an indication of damaged gutters.
• Look at the line of the roof to make sure it is straight. Are there any broken tiles?
• Check the stumps for subsidence, rot, borer or termite attack.

  INSIDE THE HOUSE

• Check that all the floors are level and that there are not gaps between the floor and skirting boards.
• Jump lightly on wood floorboards to assess their stability.
• Look for signs of rising damp, including rotting carpet, mould on the walls or ceiling and musty odours.
• Check the walls and ceiling for warping and cracks. Fresh paint or wallpaper may be hiding problem areas.
• Assess whether doors and windows are square. Jamming may indicate structural subsidence.
  Make sure all light switches work. Also check each power point by using a power point tester (these are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased from hardware and electrical stores).
• Test the water pressure in both hot and cold taps. Ideally, turn on several taps simultaneously.
  Partially fill the bath or sink and observe the drainage of this water. Sluggish flow could indicate damaged or blocked sewer drains.  

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