Buying an apartment is one of the most important choices in a person’s life, and it is a question of enormous emotional and financial investment. If you are looking for an new apartments in Chennai or considering alternatives like an apartment, a proper physical inspection can lead you to make the right choice. Visual inspection isn’t just about looks—it’s discovering possible issues that can end up costing you in the future. Here’s step by step how to visually inspect an apartment before signing on the dotted line.
Start outside
The exterior gives you the first impression and usually will give you a sense of the condition of the whole property. Look for the following:
Structure: Examine the structure for open cracks, especially near the beams, columns, and walls. Horizontal or widespread cracks may signify deeper structural issues.
Paint and Finish: Discolored or peeling paint can indicate neglected maintenance.
Balconies and Railings: Ensure balconies are secure and railings are stable and not rusted or loose.
When viewing an apartment for sale in Chennai, particularly in under-development areas, the outside may also indicate if the project is well-administered and maintained.
Check the Common Areas
Common areas say much about maintenance of the apartment complex.
Lobbies and Corridors: Check for cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, and dampness or water seepage.
Staircases and Elevators: See if elevators are running smoothly and staircases are well-lit and clean.
Parking Area: Provide ample area, adequate lighting, and a good water flow.
Around the coast, as during a visit to an apartment that is up for sale in ECR, sea water can accelerate corrosion. A proper inspection of metallic fixtures and gates at the coast is specially recommended.
Check the Front and Doors
The entrance door should be strong and secure.
Main Door: Ensure it is heavy and has a good quality lock system.
Internal Doors: Open all doors to guarantee there is no warping, creaking, or misalignment.
Door Frames: Inspect door frames for gaps or cracks that may be a sign of poor workmanship or structural movement.
Inspect Walls and Ceilings
These are where signs of dampness and structural weaknesses tend to appear.
Wall Surface: Inspect for bubbles, cracks, or damp stains—these may be signs of water leakage or insufficient insulation.
Ceilings: Any brown patches or flaking paint could be due to water damage.
Corners and Joints: Pay attention to the corners where walls meet ceilings or floors. These areas often reveal hidden problems.
If you’re interested in a coastal apartment, salt-laden air can affect paint and finishing. Extra vigilance is necessary in such environments.
Flooring and Tiles
Well-installed flooring reflects quality construction.
Tile Surface: Look for cracks, unevenness, or hollow ring upon tapping—this is bad tile fixing.
Grout Lines: Look for discoloration or fungus growth, which can suggest wetness issues.
Windows and Ventilation
Daylight and ventilation are key to healthy living.
Windows: Open and close all windows to check for smooth action. Inspect for rusting, leakage, or gaps.
Grills and Glass: Ensure grills are sturdy and glass is not broken.
Ventilation: Verify if all rooms, especially kitchen and bathroom, have proper ventilation.
This is especially important in wet areas. When searching for an apartment in Chennai for sale, make sure there is proper air circulation enough to handle changing weather.
Plumbing and Sanitary Fixtures
A poor plumbing system may lead to costly repairs in the future.
Taps and Showers: Turn them on to verify water pressure and drainage.
Leaks: Check under washbasins and sinks for damp or leaks.
Flush Systems: Ensure all flushes in toilets work properly and draining is prompt.
Plumbing pipes in sea-facing apartments get corroded faster due to the salt environment. Always inspect thoroughly while checking out an apartment for buying in ECR.
Electrical Fittings and Safety
Switches and Sockets: Check every plug point and switch. Ensure they are securely attached and not sparking.
Main Circuit Board: Check for neat labeling and fresh breakers.
Lighting: Check all lights are working and no loose wires.
Kitchen and Storage
A working kitchen is both efficient and functional.
Cabinetry: Pull out every cabinet and drawer to check for termites, mold, or broken hinges.
Countertops: Check for cracks or stains.
Storage Space: Check for adequate storage for your needs.
Bathroom Conditions
Bathrooms should be clean and in good condition.
Water Flow: Check hot and cold water supply if installed.
Drainage: Look for water lying on the floor; this may indicate incorrect slope.
Tiles and Fixtures: Ensure they are not broken, chipped, or rusting.
A visual inspection is a reasonable and a necessary part of purchasing an apartment. It protects you from any shocking experience in the future and informs you that you are spending on a well-maintained home. If you are considering buying an apartment for sale in Chennai city locations or if you want to buy an apartment for sale in ECR with a sea face, your inspection should be thorough and systematic. Carry with you a checklist or a professional if you are not aware.
This preventative measure not only protects your investment but also offers peace of mind in your search for a dream apartment.
