Site-Visit Checklist: What to Inspect Before You Pay

Walk a property like a pro—structure, services, documents, and neighborhood checks in 20 minutes.

Bring this list to your next viewing:

Outside

• Road condition, drainage, evidence of flooding.

• Boundary pillars match the site plan.

• Roof lines straight; no sagging/buckling.

• Water storage (poly tank/borehole), pump house, meter.

Inside

• Walls plumb; no major cracks at window corners.

• Water pressure at all taps; hot water in bathrooms.

• Electrical: labeled consumer unit, functional RCDs.

• Kitchen: cabinet alignment, extractor, worktop edges sealed.

• Doors/windows: open/close smoothly; no gaps.

Documents

• Site plan signed & matches ground.

• Indenture/lease or title certificate in seller’s name.

• Utility bills (recent) to confirm active services.

• Any permits for recent extensions.

Neighborhood

• Noise at night; nearby schools/churches/workshops.

• Security; speak to two neighbors.

• Travel time to your routine destinations.

Deal

• What’s included (ACs, cooker, water heaters)?

• Payment milestones & possession date.