Pre-purchase property inspection.
Before purchasing, make sure you know the real condition of the property.
A pre-purchase property inspection helps identify construction defects, assess the actual condition of the building and the correctness of the documentation – enabling you to make an informed purchase decision rather than buying blindly.
Why can a pre-purchase property inspection save thousands of euros?
Buying real estate is usually one of the largest investments we make in life. Saving money in the wrong place by skipping the inspection may become significantly more expensive later.
Moisture damage, insufficient insulation, outdated electrical systems, incorrect water drainage slopes in wet rooms, incorrect roof slopes, incorrect yard drainage, inadequate sound insulation, and fire safety issues can all lead to thousands of euros in additional costs.
In addition to technical issues, we also assess the correctness of the documents and check whether the building complies with its intended use and whether, for example, the building permit or occupancy permit is in order. In some cases, it may be necessary to direct the client to additional studies or a building inspection audit to obtain deeper technical insights. site upervision may also be useful if you plan to carry out renovation in the future.
A pre-purchase building inspection is not intended to accuse the seller – it is for the buyer’s protection to ensure the property matches its price and expectations. It also helps assess the scale of future maintenance or reconstruction needs.
What exactly do we check during the inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection includes both the exterior and interior parts of the building. We check every important aspect that may affect safety, usability, future maintenance costs, or the actual value of the property.
The scope of the inspection depends on the size and construction characteristics of the property, but the goal is always the same: to identify weaknesses, provide recommendations, and prepare a reliable overview that allows the buyer to assess whether the purchase price matches the quality.
Interior structures
The general condition of living areas often reflects the overall maintenance of the building. We check the condition of walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as potential moisture damage. In sanitary rooms (shower room, bathroom, sauna), floor slopes, waterproofing, and ventilation are critically important as they affect the health of the entire building.
The condition of doors and windows indicates heat retention and potential need for additional investment. Checking interior stairs and railings ensures safety, especially for families with children. The functionality of the heating system, ventilation, water and sewer piping, and the electrical system (sockets and switches) is important both for energy efficiency and safety.
If necessary, these assessments may also form the basis for an initial renovation cost estimate, giving the buyer a realistic understanding of future expenses and providing strong arguments for price negotiations.
Exterior structures
The exterior of the building requires especially thorough attention, as this is where the most expensive problems often hide. Cracks in the facade and plinth or poor finishing can lead to moisture issues. The condition of eaves and parapets affects the longevity of the roof.
The functionality of the roof drainage system is essential to prevent water accumulation and leaks. An attic inspection (if it can be safely accessed) helps identify ventilation problems, insufficient insulation, and possible rodent damage.
Exterior stairs, ramps, terraces, walkways, and driveways affect both safety and the property’s first visual impression. Checking fences and gates is important for a complete overview, especially for private homes.
What needs to be fixed immediately and what can wait?
At the end of each inspection, we prepare a list of works requiring immediate or urgent attention. This may include pipe leaks, dangerous electrical system issues, moisture damage, or construction defects.
We also highlight more costly works that may be expected in the coming years.
The compiled list helps the buyer assess whether the total cost of the property matches their budget and whether the sale price needs to be adjusted.
How long does a pre-purchase property inspection take?
For a simple private house, on-site work usually takes up to two days. This includes a thorough visual inspection, measurements, and checks of the technical systems.
The report is usually completed the next day and includes photographic documentation, assessments, and recommendations.
The complexity and size of the building may extend the time required, but the goal is always to provide well-considered, accurate, and practical information that the buyer can start using immediately.
How much does a pre-purchase property inspection cost?
The service price starts from 250 euros. The final cost depends on the location, size, characteristics, and extent of technical systems.
If you need an inspection before purchase, after purchase, or want to review a developer’s work before the end of the warranty period, we will find a solution suitable for your situation. The inspection may be particularly useful when assessing the applicability of construction warranty conditions or preparing an assessment based on a pre-purchase property inspection.
Frequently asked questions buyers most often ask.
Is a pre-purchase property inspection necessary for a new development?
Yes. New developments often have construction defects that are not visible to the naked eye. The inspection also helps determine whether the construction warranty applies.
Can the pre-purchase inspection affect the sale price?
Often yes. If we discover deficiencies, the buyer can use them in negotiations or plan a realistic renovation cost estimate.
Will the seller fix the issues found during the inspection?
This depends on the agreement. However, the inspection provides the buyer with an objective basis for negotiations.
Does the inspection include a document review?
Yes, we assess the correctness of documentation and, if necessary, provide guidance on issues related to the building permit, occupancy permit, or building inspection audit.
Can I participate during the inspection?
Yes, it is even recommended – you can ask questions and receive explanations immediately.
How long before the purchase should the pre-purchase property inspection be ordered?
Ideally before signing the purchase agreement, so discovered defects can be included in the agreement or used to negotiate a lower price.
Can the inspection be performed in winter?
Yes, although some aspects (e.g., roof condition under snow) may be limited. We still recommend inspection as soon as the decision to buy is made.
What should I do if serious defects are found during the inspection?
You may withdraw from the transaction, request a price reduction, or ask the seller to fix the issues before the sale. The inspection report is your strongest negotiation tool.
Make your purchase decision based on facts, not emotions.
A professional pre-purchase property inspection helps avoid unpleasant surprises and ensures that your biggest investment is well considered.
Our thorough inspection provides confidence that the building’s condition meets your expectations and that potential future repair costs are known in advance.
This service is not just a pre-purchase inspection – it is a safety net for your future home or investment, helping you make decisions with peace of mind and avoid hidden risks.
