If you’re considering selling your property or purchasing new property, you may have come across the term exterior property inspection. But what does this mean? An exterior inspection of a piece of property simply refers to the documentation – via descriptions and photographs – of a home from both a distance and at a closer range. Exterior property inspections cover all angles of the property – its front, rear, sides and surroundings. It is typically the potential buyer of a property that will arrange for and pay for the exterior property inspection.
What is the Point of an Exterior Property Inspection?
Exterior property inspections provide critical value to investors, landlords, and anyone else evaluating a piece of property. An overview of your property’s exterior can highlight your house’s ability to withstand weather conditions such as storms, wind and rain. This, in turn, can help with the assessment and valuation of your property. Because of this, your property’s exterior does not just have to be physically appealing, but it should also be in sound condition. The building’s outer structure can also give those evaluating it a sense of how its interior might be holding up.
If you are looking to buy or rent property, exterior inspections can help you evaluate if the property you are considering is worth the investment. Having this information can save you from making the costly mistake of buying a property that might end up needing expensive, major repairs. Exterior property inspections thoroughly examine the elements of a property’s structure, so that any undetected issues can be brought to light. If any elements of a property pose a risk to potential occupants, an exterior property inspection can highlight these issues; this is important particularly if a property is located in an area prone to extreme weather situations. If you’re looking to purchase a home, you might also want to check out why HVAC system inspections are so important when it comes to assessing property.
A Checklist for an Exterior Property Inspection
So, what does an inspector look for when they carry out a property inspection? We’ve prepared a checklist here so that you can ensure that your property is in tip-top shape when the time comes. A property inspector will make a thorough assessment of the areas below, and note any sort of damage – if present – in these elements.
- Foundation and below-ground areas. This includes your property’s masonry, under-floor ventilation, basement and floor framing system.
- Yard, landscape and other vegetation
- Drainage, such as downspouts and gutters
- Sideways, driveways, walkways and garage
- Patios, decks, balconies, porches, stairs, railings and balconies
- Rooftop – this includes roof coverings and chimneys
- Sidings, walls, trim, paint and caulking
- Exterior doors and windows – this includes hinges and frames
Assessing Property
Whether you’re looking to sell or buy, being able to critically assess property is a key skill that you’ll need in your arsenal. Many choose to engage the services of a reputable and experienced real estate agent who’ll be able to guide them through the intricacies of real estate.
