As you may know, a defect liability period is the time within which you can ask the builder of your precious home for restoration of any defects or substandard quality material.
So, whether you’ve recently bought a house, or are looking to buy a new one, here is important information you should keep in mind.
The value of a great home shouldn’t reduce, even after the warranty period. First, familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions in the defect liability insurance or contract. What counts as a defect, and what doesn’t?
For example, natural deterioration due to shrinkage or sunlight may not be a defect. Other aspects such as blocked drains or dampness due to improper drainage installed may not count either. On the other hand, problems with roofs, ceilings, original fixtures and load-bearing parts of the floors, for example, could definitely be a part of the warranty.
Therefore, you should have a survey conducted by professionals, to ensure it is done right and that no stone is left unturned, as you say.
We’ve put together a little Handy Checklist
- Keep records and photographs of the condition of the house when it was handed over, and of the renovations and installations that you then carried out.
- Inspect built-in kitchen cabinets and fittings thoroughly.
- Inspect the cabinets and cupboards, if these were part of original fixtures, to see if they’re properly aligned, and not sagging.
- The power points should be functional, and other points of electrical installation should be safe and concealed.
- Especially in the bathrooms, ensure that there is no rust on metallic parts, and that the tiles are smooth and crack-free.
- Inspect the flooring closely. Is it smooth? Is it level? Are there patches that are different?
- Now, the walls and ceiling. Are they, too, smooth and level? Are there imperfections and cracks? Are the joints between ceiling and wall gap-free?
- Are the ceilings smooth and blemish-free?
- Doors, of course, are also important. Do they open and close without effort? Are the hinges smooth and operating well?
- In the case of air-conditioners, ceiling fans, and other fixtures that were included from the start, it’s vital to see that they’re functioning efficiently and well.
An experienced professional will be able to efficiently judge the condition of all of the above. Reach out to us today, to see how we can help you secure your home in time. Many times, a property inspection report also reveals concealed defects that may not have come to light because it’s impossible to see with the naked eye. If an inspection is carried out and a notice given to the builder for rectification within the stipulated time, then before you know it, you’ll be the owner of an improved and beautiful house. One that will delight you for years to come.
