Resale House Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy

A resale house can look perfect on a sunny afternoon and still hide problems that cost lakhs to fix. Take this checklist on your visit — it takes about an hour and could save you from a bad buy.

Tip: visit twice — once in daylight, and once after rain or in the evening.

Structure

• Cracks: hairline cracks in plaster are common; wide or diagonal cracks in walls, beams or columns are not — get an engineer's opinion
• Foundation and plinth: look for settlement, gaps between floor and wall, or doors that no longer close properly
• Roof and terrace: check for standing water, damaged waterproofing and cracks around the water tank
• Additions: any floors or rooms added later should be on the approved map

Damp and seepage

• check ceilings, corners and the walls behind cupboards and bathrooms for stains, peeling paint or a musty smell
• look under sinks and around the water tank
• press on skirting and lower walls — soft or flaky plaster means moisture

Plumbing and water

• turn on every tap and shower — check pressure and how long hot water takes
• flush every toilet and check for leaks
• ask about the water source (municipal supply or borewell), supply timings and tank capacity
• check drainage outside — does water collect in the lane after rain?

Electrical

• look at the main board — old fuses or messy wiring may need replacing
• test switches and sockets in every room
• check the connected load and whether there's an inverter or generator connection
• ask for recent electricity bills

Doors, windows and fittings

• open and close every door and window
• check grills, locks and the main gate
• look at kitchen platforms, cabinets and bathroom fittings — what will stay with the house?

Light, air and surroundings

• which rooms get natural light and cross-ventilation?
• is there parking for your car?
• how noisy is the street, and what's being built next door?
• talk to a neighbour about water, power cuts and the area

Before you agree on a price

Write down every repair you'll need and get rough estimates — it's your strongest negotiating point. Our guide on how to negotiate a property price explains how to use it. Then check the papers with our document checklist.

Browse independent houses and houses for sale in Rudrapur.

Cover photo: @krakograff / Unsplash (illustrative).