Home Quality Check Guide: 10 Things to Look For

Obviously, you want to be confident in a property’s construction quality before you purchase it.  Did you know that 90% of people buy a home that has already been built, thus evaluating the construction quality is never easy? A homeowner finds it extremely challenging to evaluate the calibre of the building materials employed, whether it be for a large-scale residential project, a duplex, or an independent floor.

 

The construction process has significantly improved over the past few years thanks to new materials and technologies. However, it’s not uncommon to discover house owners grumbling about building and craftsmanship. 

 

However, there are some techniques that property owners can use to ensure that they are not being duped by false claims of branded toiletries, superior beams and columns, and top-notch water pipes and electrical cabling. If you are interested to know more, then just keep reading this article. 

 

1. Structural layout

 

It would be challenging for someone who is not familiar with design methods to comprehend the specifics of the structural layout. As a result, you can employ a professional to assess the building’s design and structural integrity. Property owners are frequently advised to evaluate the construction’s quality in terms of the building’s ability to withstand earthquakes, its firefighting capabilities, and the presence of emergency exits.

 

2. Soil quality

 

Try to pay attention to the kind and quality of the soil the structure is constructed on when you visit the site. To learn more about the precise makeup of the soil, ask the contractor or the agency. There are regional variations in soil quality. It is a crucial factor in determining the stability of the foundation. 

 

Keep in mind that black cotton soil and soil rich in clay are not suitable for high-rise buildings. Experts claim that depending on the amount of moisture and water, these soils have a tendency to expand and contract. A copy of the soil test that was performed prior to the start of construction can also be requested by property buyers.

 

3. Concrete mix

 

The load on the structure determines the necessary concrete strength. Builders keep a tight eye on the concrete mix’s strength. Ready-mix is a preferable option because it isn’t always possible to watch how the concrete mix is being made on the job site. A testing laboratory’s certification of the concrete mix should be requested from the new home builder.

 

4. Paint quality

 

Look for unequal cracks in the plastering on the walls during your site visit. The quality of the paint applied to the walls might be shown by even a small fissure. In fact, a lack of curing can lead to wall cracks, which will only get worse with time. While high-quality paint can increase the walls’ visual attractiveness and durability, incorrect curing might cause the walls’ premature deterioration.

 

5. Fixtures

 

It is anticipated that developers will deliver on their promises of specific fittings and finishings if they do so in a satisfactory manner. It’s the wrong strategy. Always verify that electrical, wiring, and bathroom fixtures have received certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards.

 

6. Finishing

 

When the unit is finished, the quality of the paints, plaster, tiles, and marbles should be apparent to the unaided eye. Ask the builder about the brands they used if you have any doubts. You will need to replace the paint and tiles of the home sooner if they are of low quality.

 

7. Quality of bathroom fixtures and sanitary goods

 

Examining the overall shape of sanitary ceramics and accessories, such as toilets, washbasins, face cleaners, and bidets, is the best way to judge their quality. High-quality fixtures should be comfortable to use. Additionally, you can lightly tap it to listen for cracks; a raspy sound may indicate the presence of cracks. 

 

In addition, you can examine the mounting surface to see if it is level and smooth. Check the water flow and speed, the sort of faucets being used, and how simple it would be to replace or locate its parts while looking at bathroom fixtures. To prevent mishaps, you should also inspect the bathroom tiles and insist on non-skid ones.

 

8. Check the walls’ thickness

 

The home layout agreements must include a statement from the developer about the wall thickness. To see if it holds true, walk around the building site. You can also check by pressing any key against a wall. Inquire about the concrete mix from the builder and whether you can make a hole with ease. 

 

Additionally, tap the walls with your knuckles to see whether there is plywood within or if they are hollow. For added strength, plywood walls are frequently used by builders. However, if these constructions are not properly managed, termites may cause harm.

 

9. Complete the paperwork

Though every developer makes the claim of “excellent construction,” few care to give specifics. A schedule of amenities or specifications on the flooring, doors, windows, sanitary/electrical fittings, etc. that he would use must be annexed by the builder to the (booking/purchase) agreement. This guarantees that you are informed of the developer’s commitments. However, in practice, the agreement typically just specifies the general sort of amenities and not their precise details or level of quality.

 

Putting the information down on paper will also increase the developer’s responsibility to deliver.

 

10. Third-party certifications

 

Since it is impossible for a buyer to inspect every part of the home construction, he can use independent auditors’ services.

 

A preventative strategy like a “third-party audit” can be quite helpful because it offers protection against unwelcome surprises.

 

Asking your builder to hire an inspection firm for continuous quality certifications and audits would cost you nothing, unlike asking for an independent audit, which can be pricey. Many reputable contractors have already begun looking for certificates.