Buying an apartment is a significant investment, and the pre-settlement walkthrough is your last chance to ensure the property meets all contractual agreements before making the final payment. This inspection is a safeguard against potential surprises that could arise post-settlement.
Key Benefits of a Walkthrough:
- Identifying Unresolved Defects: Ensure all construction work is complete and by your contract.
- Confirming Compliance: Verify that the property meets legal requirements and safety standards.
- Avoiding Costly Repairs: Catching defects early prevents unexpected financial burdens after moving in.
- Ensuring Utility Functionality: Confirm that essential services like electricity, water, and gas are in working order.
Skipping this step could leave you with unaddressed issues that can be challenging to resolve once ownership is transferred. Buyers must approach this walkthrough as a formal, structured inspection rather than a casual visit.
Scheduling the Walkthrough
Best Timing
Plan your walkthrough one week before the settlement date to allow sufficient rectification time. Conduct a follow-up walkthrough before signing final paperwork to ensure all agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
Who Should Attend?
To conduct a thorough assessment, consider bringing:
- Your real estate agent: They can ensure contractual obligations are met.
- A professional property inspector: Experts can identify structural issues you might miss.
- A trusted construction professional: Builders or engineers can offer insights into potential long-term concerns.
- A legal advisor (if necessary): If disputes arise over the property’s condition, legal support can be beneficial.
How to Arrange the Inspection
- Contact the developer or builder to schedule an appointment at least a week in advance.
- Request documentation confirming that prior defects have been rectified.
- Confirm full access to all areas of the apartment, including amenities like storage rooms and parking.
Essential Items to Bring
A prepared buyer ensures no detail is overlooked. Bring the following:
- Purchase contract: Cross-check specifications, features, and finishes.
- Notepad and pen: Document findings systematically.
- Smartphone or camera: Capture timestamped photos and videos of any defects.
- Power outlet tester: Quickly confirm the functionality of electrical sockets.
- Water pressure gauge: Ensure taps and showers provide adequate water flow.
- Measuring tape: Double-check dimensions for furniture placement.
- Checklist (printed or digital): Keep track of all inspection points.
Exterior Inspection
Common Area Assessment
Your apartment is part of a larger building—inspect shared spaces to ensure they meet expectations:
- Walls and flooring: Check for visible cracks, uneven surfaces, or poor workmanship.
- Security and intercom systems: Test entry points, buzzers, and CCTV cameras.
- Emergency exits and fire safety: Confirm compliance with fire safety regulations.
Related blog: Apartment Pre-Settlement Inspections
Building Facade
The external structure should be in pristine condition:
- Windows and doors: Look for improper seals, leaks, or visible gaps.
- Waterproofing: Check for signs of water damage, especially on balconies.
- Roof and drainage systems: Ensure gutters and downpipes are intact.
Shared Amenities
- Parking and storage spaces: Verify accessibility and ownership details.
- Common hallways and lifts: Look for chipped paint, broken lighting, or damaged flooring.
- Landscaping and outdoor areas: Ensure communal spaces are maintained as promised.
Interior Inspection
Walls, Ceilings, and Flooring
- Check for defects: Peeling paint, bubbling surfaces, or warping could indicate underlying moisture issues.
- Inspect corners and edges: Poor workmanship may leave gaps or uneven surfaces.
- Look for water stains: These could indicate leaking pipes or poor waterproofing.
Doors and Windows
- Confirm smooth operation: Stiff locks or poorly aligned doors may require adjustments.
- Test window seals: Ensure no drafts or leaks are present.
- Check soundproofing: If on a busy street, noise insulation should meet expectations.
Lighting Fixtures and Electrical Outlets
- Test all switches and outlets: Every room should have functional electrical points.
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Confirm correct installation and operation.
- Check circuit breakers: Ensure the switchboard is correctly labeled and up to standard.
Kitchen Area
Appliance Functionality
- Oven, stove, and rangehood: Test burners, fans, and heat settings.
- Dishwasher: Run a short cycle to check for leaks or errors.
- Fridge space: Ensure the designated space meets your size requirements.
Cabinetry and Countertops
- Inspect finish quality: Look for scratches, dents, or poor assembly.
- Check hinges and drawers: All mechanisms should open smoothly.
Plumbing
- Run water tests: Let hot and cold water run for a minute to test heating and flow.
- Check under sinks: Look for any leaks or poor pipe fittings.
Bathroom(s) Inspection
Plumbing and Water Pressure
- Toilets: Flush multiple times to confirm proper drainage.
- Showers and taps: Test both pressure and temperature control.
Tiling and Grout Work
- Cracks or loose tiles: These can lead to moisture damage over time.
- Silicone sealing: Ensure waterproofing is intact around showers and bathtubs.
Ventilation
- Exhaust fans: Test performance to prevent mold buildup.
- Windows: If applicable, confirm smooth operation for airflow.
Appliances and Utilities Testing
Electrical
- Test all power points: Bring a phone charger to check every outlet.
- Confirm NBN or internet setup: If included, verify connectivity.
Gas and Heating
- Inspect gas outlets: Use a gas leak detector if possible.
- Test water heating: Run taps for extended periods to confirm stable temperature.
Air Conditioning and Ventilation
- Check remote functions: Ensure all climate control settings work.
- Assess airflow: Confirm adequate cooling and heating reach all rooms.
Final Contract Review & Legal Compliance
Matching the Contract Terms
- Compare marketing materials to reality: Ensure what was promised has been delivered.
- Confirm premium features: If upgrades were included, verify they are installed.
Confirm All Repairs are Completed
- Cross-check past defect reports: Ensure all noted issues were rectified.
Legal Compliance
- Request occupancy certificates: Ensure final approvals are in place.
- Collect warranty and user manuals: These may be required for future claims.
Related post: Avoid Mistakes: Key Tips for Apartment Pre-Settlement Inspections
Reporting & Resolving Outstanding Issues
How to Document Issues
- List defects in writing: Attach images and descriptions for clarity.
Who to Contact
- Builder or developer: Raise issues formally before settlement.
- Legal advisor: Seek guidance if disputes arise.
Next Steps
- Mediation or consumer affairs support: If necessary, escalate concerns through official channels.
Before finalizing your apartment purchase, conduct a thorough pre-settlement walkthrough to confirm that all aspects meet your expectations. If any concerns arise, consult a qualified property inspector or legal expert to protect your investment.
