Choosing the right house can feel tricky, with so much to check and compare. Many buyers miss key issues like damp, broken windows or old roofs during viewings. This guide gives you a clear checklist to follow, from outside walls to garden fences.
Keep reading for smart tips that make your next viewing stress-free.
Exterior Checklist
Start outside—the first glance tells you a lot about the property condition. Take your time, small details can show bigger issues with house maintenance or repair needs.
Check for signs of damp
Look for signs of damp on the outside walls. Spot water stains, flaky plaster, or patches where paint peels. Mouldy smells might mean a problem with moisture or poor ventilation. Check low corners and near windows for mildew spots.
Moisture can damage brickwork and affect insulation. It can weaken structural integrity if left too long without repair. Watch out for cracks where water could leak in, around doors and under roof edges especially after rain.
Signs like condensation or dark marks may point to leaks needing quick fixes or even a dehumidifier later on.
Inspect the condition of the roof
Check the roof for any loose or damaged tiles. Tiles should all sit flat and tight with no gaps. Broken or missing tiles let in water, which can damage the inside of the house. New roofs usually last about 15 to 20 years before needing major work.
Flat roofs need special care. Membrane types often last longer than old asphalt and gravel ones, offering better weatherproofing against rain and wind. Look at the general structure too; sagging spots might mean trouble below.
Any moss or plant growth hints at trapped moisture that could shorten the roof’s lifespan and lead to costly maintenance later on.
Look for cracks in the brickwork or render
Scan all brickwork and wall rendering for cracks. Small hairline cracks may not mean much, but large ones, especially near extensions or bay windows, could signal big problems with the foundation or structural integrity.
Areas with missing mortar show signs of weathering and possible deterioration; they may also let in damp or cold air which can affect insulation. Watch for horizontal cracks as they often point to serious settlement issues.
Long, wide cracks might need costly repairs to keep the home safe. If you spot any worrying gaps, flag them during your inspection—they might mean maintenance is overdue or past repairs were not done well.
After checking walls and render, move on to assess the condition of windows and doors next.
Assess the windows and doors
Look at every window frame for signs of rot, cracks, or peeling paint. Double glazing cuts noise and helps save on bills; check if these are installed. Open each door to test if they move smoothly without sticking or scraping the floor.
Spot gaps around doors and windows that could let in draughts.
See if seals are tight, as this blocks cold air and keeps heat inside. Test light switches nearby along with electrical sockets, since hidden faults show up here first. Worn hardware like handles or locks may need repairs soon; note any damage for your budget later.
Watch out for broken glass panels, as replacing them adds cost too.
Interior Checklist
Inside, keep an eye out for any signs that the house needs repairs or might cost extra down the line—keep reading to discover what details matter most.
Look for signs of structural issues
Spot cracks in walls or ceilings. Cracks wider than 5mm may show foundation or settling problems. Watch for large cracks around extensions, bay windows, or door frames; these points can mean trouble with structural integrity.
Bowing walls, fractures in plasterwork, or floors that dip could also be warning signs.
Check for any water damage along skirting boards and near loadbearing walls. Damp patches might weaken structure over time if left unchecked. Uneven gaps above doors might hint at deflection or recent shifts.
Fast action on damage assessment gives a better view of needed repair solutions and costs before you commit further—next up, check for damp or mould on walls and ceilings.
Check for damp or mould on walls and ceilings
After scanning for structural issues, shift your focus to damp and mould on the walls and ceilings. Dark spots or green patches show where mould spores grow. Thin water stains mark out moisture problems and possible water damage.
Follow your nose; a musty smell hints at hidden mildew or decay, even if you cannot see it plainly.
Touch walls for coldness or feel for condensation during humid days. Watch for flaking plaster, peeling paint, or bubbling wallpaper—these mean extra moisture in the air. Spot any dehumidifiers? They might mask ongoing humidity issues.
Look around windows and corners with poor ventilation; these areas collect most of the condensation. Fresh air helps stop this problem but bad insulation can make it worse… Keep an eye out for strong air freshener smells as they could hide signs of dampness too.
Inspect flooring for damage or unevenness
Check the flooring condition in every room. Look for cracked tiles, lifting edges on laminate, and any loose floorboards. Uneven surfaces can show settling problems or poor work. Watch out for spongy spots in carpets; they may mean hidden damage or water issues.
Assess surface integrity and material condition closely—wear and tear may hint at safety hazards like tripping risks. Note any loud creaks as you walk across wooden floors—they could signal structural stability concerns or levelling issues that need maintenance.
Move to testing all windows and doors next, making sure they open, close, and lock with ease.
Test all windows and doors for functionality
Floors can reveal problems, but windows and doors show how well the house has been looked after. Open every window and door in each room. Each one should move easily, without sticking or scraping.
Handles, locks, and other hardware must work right; broken parts mean extra cost for repair.
Look at the seals around frames to spot gaps or worn bits that could cause drafts or let water in—this affects efficiency and comfort. Windows and doors should shut tight with no rattling.
Try light switches near these areas too; working electrics matter for safety. Ask if any repairs were made recently or if certain windows seem hard to reach, as this could affect both future maintenance and daily use.
Room-Specific Checks
Each room has different needs—details can make or break your decision. Take a closer look at the spaces you’ll use each day, as small things often matter most….
Living Room: Assess natural light and space
Check how much natural light fills the room. Open curtains and blinds to see true illumination at different times of day. Look for large windows, as they boost both brightness and energy efficiency.
Notice where the sun enters; south-facing rooms get more daylight throughout the year. Good window placement means better ventilation too.
Measure if there is enough space for furniture and safe movement. Consider if the layout allows a cosy atmosphere without feeling crowded. Test heating—radiators or fireplaces—to see if they work well, which keeps things comfortable in colder months.
Spot built-in storage or clever designs that add comfort and style to daily life.
Time to step into the kitchen—check plumbing, appliances, and storage next.
Kitchen: Check appliances, plumbing, and storage
Test all kitchen appliances to see if they work as expected. Turn on the oven, hob, and extractor fan—listen for any strange noises or issues. Run the tap to check water pressure and hot water availability; poor supply could mean old plumbing.
Look under the sink for leaks or mould, which may signal damage.
Open every cupboard and drawer to inspect storage space. Pull out units carefully; weak hinges or broken shelves show lack of maintenance. Scan flooring for cracks or uneven tiles—this can hide bigger problems below.
Good ventilation is vital in a kitchen, so test any extractor fans for proper airflow.
Bathrooms: Inspect plumbing, ventilation, and water pressure
Just like the kitchen, plumbing is key in the bathroom. Check all taps and flush toilets. Watch for leaks around sinks and under baths. Look at the shower type, then feel the water flow from both hot and cold taps.
Low pressure or slow drainage points to a problem.
Check extractor fans work by switching them on; good airflow stops mould. Inspect grouting and sealants around baths and showers for cracks or mould growth. Too much humidity often means poor ventilation or old extractor fans.
Tap fixtures should feel solid, not loose, with no rust stains nearby—these small details show past maintenance habits.
Bedrooms: Evaluate size and storage options
Check each bedroom for enough space to fit your bed and other furniture. Take a tape measure to check room dimensions, as some bedrooms look bigger than they are. Look at where doors and windows sit; these affect how you can arrange the furniture.
Built-in wardrobes or cupboards help with storage solutions, keeping clothes organised and floors clear.
Think about privacy levels if there are big windows facing other houses or public spaces. Spot any areas in need of renovation—easy fixes like painting, or bigger ones such as adding built-in shelves.
Consider if you could make the space feel larger by changing up interior design or using clever organisation tricks. Tall wardrobes work well for small rooms needing more storage options.
Now move on to check garden drainage issues and see if outdoor spaces meet your needs for relaxation or playtime.
Garden and Outdoor Space
Step outside and pay attention to how the garden sits—sometimes, small details can lead to bigger jobs later. Scan for any signs that repairs might crop up after you move in… peace of mind is always worth it.
Check for drainage issues
Rainwater should flow away from the house, not pool near walls or paths. Check soil for soggy spots after rain. Blocked gutters and fascias can lead to water running down walls or flooding flowerbeds, so inspect them for leaves and damage.
Drains must be clear; look for slow water movement around garden drains after heavy rain. Low areas could mean poor drainage, which may cause damp inside later. Cracked paving, soil erosion near fences or property boundaries, and mossy patches point to ongoing problems with outdoor maintenance and landscape assessment.
Proper water management protects the house and garden layout long-term.
Assess fencing and boundaries
Good drainage keeps gardens in shape, but fences and boundaries need a close look too. Inspect each fence panel for rot, loose nails or leaning posts. Walk along the boundary lines; check walls for cracks or missing bricks.
Sheds should have no large gaps or visible water damage.
Spot any old wooden fencing that sags? That may cost to replace soon. Metal gates must swing freely and lock well, giving perimeter security to your property. Boundary markers matter as disputes can arise if they are not clear—faded paint on posts or sunken stones may cause future problems with neighbours.
Strong materials mean less outdoor maintenance later, saving time and money all year round.
Look for potential maintenance requirements
Scan the garden for large trees close to the house. Roots from big trees may damage drains or affect the soil’s stability, leading to costly repairs later. Speak with an arborist if you spot any mature trees near walls or patios.
Cracked paving, raised garden beds, or uneven ground can signal issues under the surface.
Check fencing and boundaries for loose panels or leaning posts. Weak fences add security risks and extra costs for repair. Watch out for poor drainage; puddles after rain hint at areas that need work.
Simple checks now help avoid expensive fixes in future and keep your outdoor space safe and tidy.
Questions to Ask the Seller or Estate Agent
Don’t be shy—ask questions about the home, its upkeep, and any changes over time. Remember the team at Prominence Estates are always here to help when it comes to buying a house.
Why is the property being sold?
Ask about the seller’s motivation for selling. Some leave for work, need more space, or want to downsize. Others may have changes in their family or job. Sometimes sellers move because of a divorce or change in health.
Check if the sale is part of a property chain. The next move can affect timing and stress. Sellers with no onward purchase often offer faster transactions. A long chain adds risk and delays to your buying process.
Always ask if there are any issues that could slow things down before you make an offer on the house.
How old is the boiler, and has it been serviced?
Check the installation date of the boiler and ask for service records. Most boilers last about 10 to 15 years, but regular maintenance helps them run better and safer. Look at any repair history or service stamps in the logbook.
Find out if a safety inspection was done recently and check for a valid warranty.
A new or well-kept heating system means better energy efficiency and lower bills. Old boilers without service records may not meet current safety standards, which can be risky or costly later on.
Always ask when it was last checked by a Gas Safe engineer before making decisions.
Are there any ongoing maintenance issues?
Ask about leaks, water damage, or past repairs. Ask if there are any cracks in the walls or ceilings. Fascias, gutters, and drains should be in good shape; worn parts can cause damp problems fast.
Find out if roof inspections have found loose tiles since this can mean more cost later.
Request a list of any repairs done by the seller over the last few years. Issues like blocked drainage systems or broken windows may need quick attention. Pest infestation is another thing to ask about; it can hide bigger property maintenance costs.
If they mention foundation issues or signs of structural weakness, get a home inspection for peace of mind before you buy.
Local Area Considerations
Check out the local vibe, think about what matters for your daily life—read on for more tips.
Investigate noise levels
Stand in each room and turn off televisions, radios, and fans. Listen for traffic volume outside or sound pollution from neighbours. Busy roads nearby can raise decibel levels day or night, while cut-through routes might bring extra cars at rush hour.
Ask about acoustic issues like noisy bus stops or train tracks. Try a noise assessment—visit at different times to notice any changes. High noise can hurt sleep and raise stress, so note all sources you hear.
Ask if other buyers have done community surveys or audio monitoring before making an offer. Urban planning rules may affect future noise too; check with the local council for planned roadwork or building changes that could raise sound levels later on.
Assess local amenities and transport links
Check how close public transport is. Look for bus stops or train stations within easy walking distance. This makes it simple to commute or get around without a car. Nearby supermarkets and convenience shops offer daily needs with less hassle.
See if there are green spaces like parks, leisure centres, or playgrounds nearby. Restaurants and cafés add more dining options in the area too. Good urban infrastructure means safe paths and well-lit streets at night.
All these make life easier and can boost property value over time. Nearest schools should be checked next—Ofsted ratings matter for families with children.
Nearest Schools and their Ofsted ratings
Local area schools shape a neighbourhood. Inspect Ofsted ratings for nearby primary and secondary schools. Ratings range from “Outstanding” to “Inadequate.” These reports show education quality, safety, and school development standards.
Check the catchment area rules; not all homes guarantee a place at your first-choice school. New parents often look for schools rated “Good” or better by Ofsted before making big decisions.
School inspection reports sit online on the official Ofsted website—easy to search by postcode or school name. Good access to well-rated schools can increase home value and support children’s growth in the community.
Tips for Effective Viewings
Take your time during each visit, don’t rush. Bring a friend or family member—they might spot things you miss.
Visit the property at different times of the day
View the property 2–3 times at different times of the day. Light, noise, and street activity can change from morning to evening. One visit might give you quiet surroundings, but it could be noisy later with traffic or neighbours.
Turn off background sounds like TV or music during each viewing. Listen for outside noise and other issues that may not be obvious straight away.
Check daylight in every room; some spaces will feel brighter in the afternoon than early morning. Notice if sunlight highlights mould or peeling paint not seen before. Varying your viewing schedule gives a real assessment of the home’s environment throughout a full day.
This approach helps compare true comfort levels before making any decisions about buying.
Take notes and photos for later reference
Carry a notepad or use your phone, jot down faults and record any concerns you spot. Snap photos of cracks in walls, damp patches, windows that stick, or other issues. These notes help with later analysis and feedback to estate agents or surveyors.
Pictures act as proof for review after the visit. Tidy recordkeeping lets you compare different homes quickly. List dates and exact locations in each note or photo. This simple inspection step helps track key details for your decision-making process.
Bring someone with you for a second opinion
Bring someone knowledgeable along for a second opinion. A friend or family member with experience can spot issues you may miss, like damp patches or plumbing faults. They might ask questions that do not occur to you in the moment.
Two sets of eyes means double the observation and assessment.
A second person can help evaluate the property’s surroundings too. Maybe they notice noisy roads, poor lighting at night or tricky parking spots nearby. You get another perspective on space, layout and storage options as well.
Expert advice from friends often leads to better decision-making before you make an offer.
Table checklist
| Checklist Area | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Exterior |
– Signs of damp on external walls – Condition of roof and tiles – Cracks in brickwork or render – State of windows and doors (rot, sealant, glazing) |
| Interior |
– Structural cracks in walls/ceilings – Damp or mould on walls and ceilings – Flooring condition and evenness – Functionality of doors and windows |
| Room-by-Room |
– Living Room: Light levels and layout – Kitchen: Appliances, plumbing, storage – Bathroom: Water pressure, ventilation, seals – Bedrooms: Size, layout, storage options |
| Garden & Outdoor |
– Drainage and water pooling – Fence/boundary condition – General maintenance needs (trees, sheds, paving) |
| Questions to Ask |
– Reason for sale – Age and service record of the boiler – Ongoing or past maintenance issues |
| Local Area |
– Noise levels (visit at different times) – Proximity to transport and amenities – School catchment and Ofsted ratings |
| Viewing Tips |
– Visit multiple times at different times of day – Take photos and notes – Bring someone for a second opinion |
Final thoughts
Buying a house takes careful checks at every step. Always use a checklist to spot any faults, inside and out. Ask the right questions about the property and local area. A good viewing helps you feel sure before making an offer.
Stay sharp; your future home is worth the effort.
