Construction inspection
The structural inspection: when do you have it carried out?
Are you going to buy a home and are you unsure about the structural condition? Then have a structural inspection carried out. This way you know what you are buying. In this blog we will tell you more about the construction inspection.
What is a building inspection?
A building inspection, also called a building inspection, is a visual inspection of the home. During this inspection, the important structural parts of the home are examined, such as floors, walls, facades, window frames and the roof. After a structural inspection, you will receive a structural report containing an overview of the short- and long-term repair costs. So handy!
Why do you have a structural inspection carried out?
There may be several reasons why you have a structural inspection carried out. It is good to know that it is not mandatory, but it is wise. The mortgage provider sometimes requires a structural inspection. In addition, the appraiser may need a construction report to substantiate his appraisal report.
When do you have a structural inspection carried out?
You can have the structural inspection carried out before you place a bid or, as is currently the case in a tight market, after bidding. Will the inspection be carried out after signing and the expiry of the three-day cooling-off period? Then include a maximum recovery amount in the resolutive conditions of the purchase agreement. If it turns out that the costs to repair possible defects in the house exceed the amount agreed in the resolutory conditions, this is a reason to cancel the purchase.
TIP! Have your construction inspection carried out during the three-day reflection period. Then you do not have to include this as a condition, but you do have the certainty that you are not purchasing a ruin. Make this known to the seller!
What is checked during a structural inspection?
During a structural inspection, a structural inspector walks through the home and examines the structural components with the naked eye. No specialist examination is carried out and no holes are drilled in walls or ceilings. It may therefore be that hidden defects are not seen, but due to the experience of the inspector, the inspection basically gives a good picture of the condition of the house.
What does the inspection report say?
In any case, the architectural report will include;
• What structural defects are present;
• Whether there are problems with the construction of the house;
• What is the technical condition of all parts of the house (frames, floors, etc.);
• Whether specialist research is required into the presence of, for example, longhorn beetle, woodworm or asbestos;
• Which parts of the house the inspector could not view;
• An estimate of the costs that must be incurred immediately for overdue maintenance;
• An estimate of the costs that will have to be incurred for maintenance within a few years.
How much does a building inspection cost?
Costs for a structural inspection are on average €400, including VAT. You can have an inspection carried out by a construction consultancy firm. Do you also want to carry out a structural inspection? We have a lot of experience with reliable construction specialists. Please contact us for this ECHT Makelaars & Taxateurs.
Are the costs of a building inspection deductible?
Do you have to take the inspection to get a mortgage or for the National Mortgage Guarantee? Then the costs of the construction inspection are deductible in your income tax return. In practice, in most cases the mortgage lender will ask for a valuation report. The costs are deductible in any case.
How long does an inspection take?
In general, the inspection takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The duration depends on the size of the home, the number of defects and how many outbuildings are included in the inspection. At most architectural consultancy firms you will receive the architectural report within 2 to 3 working days.
More information?
Would you like advice or more information about the construction inspection? Sven and Laurens van ECHT Makelaars & Taxateurs are ready for you! They can be reached via: 072-202 131 20 | info@echtmakelaar.nl
