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Buying a house is a huge commitment so ensuring you are making a smart investment is important. These are the 5 things you should check before signing off on a home.

1. Check The Foundation

The foundation is one of the most important parts of a house, so you’ll want to make sure the home you’re looking at is in good condition before you buy.

“Check that windows and doors close properly and don’t get jammed in their frames, this could be a sign of a faulty foundation” advises the flooring covering experts from Chapman Floor Coverings, “Inspect walls from buckling, ceilings for sagging and interior and exterior walls and floors for cracks, mould and other defects”.

If you are unsure, you can ask the seller for proof that the foundation has been inspected and that any necessary repairs have been made.

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2. Check The Roof

The roof is your first point of defence for rain and often gets the most sun damage. Ensuring the roof has no leaks or damage is crucial. Keep in mind your roof isn’t just metal or masonry, it is an advanced system with different parts that all need to function effectively to prevent damage to your home.

Before buying your home check that the gutters aren’t loose, rusted or too narrow and make sure they are clean. Gutters that are ineffective or clogged can lead to flooding, fires and destructive mould.

3. Check The Plumbing

Make sure the plumbing is in good condition and isn’t leaking. Look under sinks and give the pipes a gentle jiggle to test their sturdiness. While you’re there, check for rust, damage, mould and any damp patches.

“Most hot water systems will last about 10 years, you can check the model number on the heater at the home you’re looking to buy and determine its age from that” note the plumbing specialists from the Sydney Maintenance Group, “A new hot water heater can set you back $3500 so making this simple check before buying a home can save you heaps”.

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4. Check the Location

A common thing that people forget to check when purchasing a home is the location. Ensuring your home is in a safe location with good neighbours should be your first priority. Try driving past the home in the evening and take note of the activity in and around the street.

Also take a walk from the home to the nearest public transport, schools and shops to see if it would be a convenient place to live.

When you’re inspecting the home take note of your mobile phone reception while you’re inside. Imagine how annoying it would be if you bought a home only to realise it was a reception dead zone and you could never make calls from inside!

5. Get a Home Inspection

There are many small details that even seasoned home buyers can miss and some features of homes, like wiring, may require a professional to properly and safely check their quality.

“Electrical faults like old or incorrect wiring can lead to house fires and electrocutions”, warns the electrical testing professionals at GTR Projects.

When you are making a huge investment on an item like a house it is always safest to employ a professional to evaluate it before you buy. Home inspectors have special tools and tricks of the trade that enable them to identify minute issues that could become major headaches down the line.