The Importance of Property Inspections Before Buying

Portugal is a great place to be, but what statistics say about the housing conditions is concerning. Around 36% of houses need repair, and a large number of properties are older than half a century. 

But the gist is, securing a property in Portugal is on the bucket list of many, given stunning landscapes, a standard of living, affordability, and safety. So, before you secure your new property in this beautiful country, a property inspection is a must.

Why do you need a property Inspection in Portugal?

Property inspection is crucial because better prepared than sorry. 

 You won’t want to spend on repairs after investing thousands of bucks in it or slipping into a legal matter for a mistake you didn’t intend. Here’ more-

  1. Due to old age, there are more abandoned houses (over 700,000)in Portugal than newly constructed ones.
  2.  Just like any other country, illegal constructions are also seen in Portugal’s rural areas. 
  3. Renovation permits after purchase can be hard to obtain.
  4. 50% of houses in Portugal were built before 1980. 

All the above points are hurdles to securing a satisfied purchase, especially when you are a foreign national. 

Benefits Of Property Inspection in Portugal

1. Ensuring Safety

A property inspection identifies potential risks in a building/house, like electrical faults, missing fire ventilation and alarms, pest infestations, and structural disabilities like moisture damage, leaks, etc. 

These revelations in an inspection bring safety against injuries and hazards. 

2. Money Saving in the Long Run

Money saving is the biggest benefit of property inspection in Portugal.  Without an inspection, you won’t find hidden issues–the ones only a professional can identify. It will have you either ask the seller to fix them and save from spending another hundred bucks on repairs in the future, or simply help you make a wise choice- to buy or not. 

3. Compliance with law and Regulations

Inspection guarantees that the property complies with laws and regulations. The property must align with the building codes set by the government. An inspection reveals any possible land extensions and avoidable legal violations.

4. Negotiate for a Better Price

If the property has some issues and the seller refuses to fix them, an inspection report can give you an upper hand in negotiating the price. You may ask for a price cut from the seller. 

5. Insurance or Mortgage Assistance

Some financing institutions ask for an inspection report of a property before approving loans/insurances.

What to Expect during a Property Inspection?

First of all, the only purpose of a property inspection is to inform the buyer. His work limits to giving property buying advice.  There’s nothing like a pass or fail to be precise. The final decision is always the buyer’s. Here’s what to expect-

  • The inspector will perform a thorough inspection of the electrical and plumbing systems.  He will also analyse interior and exterior thoroughly, which includes the  Floor, attics, walls, Foundation, Windows/doors, heating, and air conditioning. 
  • Property inspection can be time-consuming, depending on its size. 
  • The inspector should provide you with a detailed written report of the inspection. This may take him a few days.

Common Issues Found in Property Inspections

✔ Termite infestations

✔ Leaky roofs

✔ Outdated electrical wiring

✔ Damaged pipelines

✔ Rotten or cracked wooden doors and floors

✔ Missing cooling and heating systems

Conclusion

Property inspection is a personal decision. Neither the real estate agent nor the seller mandates it, but it is a crucial and advisable step for first-time property buyers. Check out Bloomith for your next property!