Buying a villa is a big decision, and water and damp problems are among the costliest defects to discover afterwards. An organised viewing and an engineering inspection help you see what may need repair before signing.
What to notice yourself during a viewing
Look out for:
- Stains or patches of fresh paint on ceilings
- Damp or musty smells in rooms or cupboards
- White salts or peeling at the base of walls
- Slow drainage in sinks and floor drains
- The roof, its waterproofing and the overhead tank base
- Access to the underground tank and manholes
What an engineering inspection adds
An engineer reviews visible water and drain networks, damp and leak signs, accessible tanks and cracks, and explains what was found and what needs deeper checks such as targeted leak detection.
What should be documented
Ask for findings with photos and clear locations, a distinction between what's confirmed and what needs follow-up, and recommendations. Agree in advance what's outside the inspection scope.
Inspection limits
An inspection assesses what can be observed at the visit and can't guarantee the property is free of every hidden defect, especially inside walls and under floors.
This is general information, not a diagnosis of your home. To identify the cause, contact us to arrange an assessment.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a property inspection and leak detection?
A property inspection is a general assessment of water systems and damp; leak detection targets a specific problem to find its source.