Builder’s experience
The first and the most important thing to check while buying a house is the builder’s construction experience. Generally, every reputed builder has a list of completed, ongoing, and upcoming projects on his website. This can help the buyer get an idea about the number and type of projects that have been executed by the builder in and around the buyer’s target city.
Approvals and Legal Compliance
The buyer should ensure that the project has a clear legal title and all approvals, like environmental clearances, are in place. “The building’s plans will reflect the type of usage of space (commercial/residential). If the construction is not as per approved plans, then, the buyer should avoid such projects, as they may face difficulties in getting the occupancy certificate (OC). Once the buyer is satisfied with the plans, he should have a look at the construction quality.
Structural Stability
With respect to the building, buyers can ask the developer for a copy of the structural stability certificate, issued by the structural engineer, to be certain that the building has been designed and built as per the load estimated. One can also go through a few test reports, to understand the concrete and steel strengths of the materials used. Additionally, the buyer could ask about:
- The type and thickness of blocks used for construction
- The brand of cement used
- Whether a four-inch block has been used for an external wall (which is not advisable)
Specifications and Quality Check
Buyers should ensure that the specifications offered by the developer are endorsed in the agreement for sale. They should also examine:
- Whether the electrical load meets their requirements
- If waterproofing has been done in the bathrooms
A home buyer can even consult an architect for clarifications regarding the specifications. “Periodical site inspections by the buyer will really be helpful. These inspections, if carried out with the help of an experienced architect or engineer, can eliminate the possibility of issues cropping up later,” explains Anil Bhaskaran, urban planner, chief architect, and MD of IDEA Centre Architects.
Steps That Home Buyers Should Follow
Following all these precautions and finally investing in a property is not the end of the road. Buyers should put in as much effort into maintaining the house and its premises after the purchase. The residents’ association should be active in ensuring that every aspect of the building is being properly maintained, thereby preventing the building from deteriorating.
- Homeowners should never break or modify structural elements like beams or columns.
- Avoid making alterations to the plumbing system without the help of the building’s plumber, as any breakage could lead to seepage, which could make the building weak.
- Residents should consult a structural consultant every 15-20 years to obtain a structural stability certificate for the building.
- Annual maintenance contracts for lifts, diesel generators, sewage treatment plants, and filtration systems should be in place. Residents should also have provisions for servicing pumps and motors.
- Underground sumps and overhead tanks should be cleaned every six months to ensure clean water supply and prevent dirt accumulation inside the pipes.
- Painting and plastering should be redone as needed.
Conclusion
Thorough research before buying a property ensures a secure investment. From builder credibility to post-purchase maintenance, taking the right steps can prevent future risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is the builder’s experience important when buying a property?
A builder’s track record helps assess the quality, reliability, and timely delivery of past projects.
Q. What legal approvals should a property have before purchase?
Ensure the property has environmental clearances, a valid occupancy certificate, and construction approvals.
Q. How can buyers check a building’s structural stability?
Request a structural stability certificate, review material test reports, and inspect construction quality.