You’ve gone through the elaborate home buying process in Malaysia, and now it’s time for the home inspection. This next step in escrow is to ensure the most substantial investment of your life doesn’t come with any defects.
When buying an expensive set of headphones, you would check the stereo quality, dynamic range, probably even test several of your favourite songs. Now, apply that same attention to detail to your home inspection, except tenfold.
Your head may currently be filled with ideas on interior decor, but let’s not skip ahead! Stay tuned as we discuss what a home inspection in Malaysia entails, with a checklist for you to prepare.
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a meticulous examination of your new property to identify potential defects or poor craftsmanship. Typically, a professional inspector will assist you in uncovering any complications and deliver a detailed report before the closing process.
Later, you can either renegotiate the purchase price, get the seller to rectify the defects, or walk away altogether. That’s right; new developments in Malaysia have a 24-month defect liability period where the seller must fix any defects free of charge.
It’s worth noting that a home inspection differs from a home appraisal, which evaluates your property’s value. Although there’s usually nothing to worry about concerning home inspections, it’s a necessary procedure to safeguard you as a homebuyer.
A home inspection in Malaysia would look at the property’s structure, grounds, and utilities to ensure it is hazard-free. What’s more, it saves you from any future unwanted surprises and expenses.
When does a Home Inspection Take Place?
Homeowners can start preparing for their home inspection when the seller accepts the offer. Once both parties sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and the buyer receives the keys to their new abode, it becomes their responsibility to hire an expert for the inspection.
If there are defects you would like rectified, remember to be patient as there might be a waiting list. Also, it’s best to avoid launching into renovation works before submitting your defect list. Otherwise, there may be debates over the actual causes of the defects.
What is a Home Inspection Contingency?
This is a clause you can append to your real estate contract, stating that the purchase deal is contingent on the home inspection’s results. Those with a home inspection contingency will have a specified timeframe to schedule an inspection or follow-up evaluations.
So if you suspect a problem with the plumbing, you can call up a specialist to further assess the situation. Buyers usually have about one to two weeks to do this.
Upon any faulty revelations, you can choose to back out of the deal without losing any money!
Your Ultimate Checklist for a Home Inspection in Malaysia
Even though you’re engaging a professional inspector, it’s important to know what to look for so you can ask questions. After all, it is your home, and you should understand the extent of damages should there be any.
That said, let’s check out some tips on spotting defects during a home inspection:
Exterior and Foundation
- Check the foundation — is it in good condition? Are there any cracks, watermarks, or shifts?
- Are there any leaks from the septic tank?
- Assess the gutters and drains to ensure proper drainage without potential blockages or stagnant water.
- Check the exterior’s paintwork for inconsistencies. Is the paint flaking or faded?
- Is the roof missing any shingles, or are there signs of decay?
- Are the windows and doorframes squared?
- Test the gate to see if it opens and closes without any strange creaking.
- Is the front porch’s floor even and the tiles adequately laid?
Interior
- Check the walls, floors or tiles, and ceilings for cracks, visible stains, uneven surfaces, and discolouration.
- Ensure all the doors and windows open easily and latch appropriately without damaged hinges.
- Test all the keys on your doorknobs and locks.
- Is there proper insulation in the rooms?
- Are the electrical outlets working?
- Do the cabinets open and close easily?
- Locate and test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work.
- Are the stairway treads solid without any strange creaking?
Plumbing
- Do all the toilets work properly without overflowing?
- How is the water pressure? If the pressure is too low, there might be a problem with the plumbing.
- Test run the water heater to see if the temperature is acceptable for everyday use.
- Check for visible leakage from the pipes.
- Is there rust on the fixtures and faucets?
- Check the drainage system for the shower, sink, tub, and even the kitchen.
Electrical
- Are all the light switches working? Ensure the lights are not flickering or missing any bulbs.
- Ensure there’s no faulty wiring and the cables are secured.
- Check for any exposed electrical splices.
- Test whether the air conditioning and remote control are in good working condition.
- Get an electrician to check that all the cables are rightfully attached to the service panel.
It might seem like a hassle, but home inspections are what protect you from incurred costs. After all this is over, you can bask in the comfort of your new home without worrying about future repairs!
If homeownership is not in your ballpark yet, try renting a space with Rumah-i’s Home Renting App on Google Play or the App Store.
