How to assess the technical condition of a flat

The technical condition of a flat is one of the more important factors in the decision to buy a property. Unfortunately, it is an aspect that is hard to judge at first glance, especially if we have no specialist knowledge. Even so, it is worth taking a close look at the future home, because we can spot obvious shortcomings ourselves. As for specialist matters, it is a good idea to ask an expert to check the most important elements of the flat's technical condition for us.

View the flat during the day

Daylight can expose many shortcomings. What cannot be seen after dusk is perfectly visible once it gets light. So let us arrange the viewing for the morning. That way it will be easier for us to examine the flat thoroughly.

Compare the floor plan with the actual state of the flat

When going to view a potential future flat, it is best to take its floor plan and the purchase agreement with you. With the drawings we can check whether the wiring and plumbing are where they should be, and whether the finishing materials promised in the agreement have been used in the flat.

Bring tools

During the inspection of your future home, basic tools such as a tape measure, a spirit level and a steel square will come in handy. Do not hesitate to use them – after all, buying a flat is a serious investment, and you definitely do not want to buy a pig in a poke. The tools will help you check that the floor area is correct and that the walls are straight. In addition, examine the windows, the interior and exterior doors, the ceiling, the walls and the floors closely. Do not forget the terrace or balcony.

Get help from a specialist

An inspection of the flat by a building inspector costs just 200-300 PLN. That is not a large expense, considering that it may save you from a major renovation in the future. The specialist will assess the condition of the wiring, plumbing and heating. They will also assess the condition of the building itself, its façade and roof. This is an important element, especially if we want to buy a flat in an old building, for example a tenement house.

Check the garage and the cellar

Before signing the purchase agreement it is also worth looking at the other premises promised in the document. These may include a garage, a cellar, utility rooms or a parking space.

Include defects and corrections in the handover protocol

Once you have read the handover protocol, add all your comments to it. List the defects and shortcomings in the finish of the flat that you believe the owner should fix before selling the property. The protocol should also state the deadline for remedying the defects. Once everything has been written down, remember not to sign the document until the owner has made the agreed corrections.