Handy tips for checking the property
Get as much information before you attend the viewing as you don't want to waste time looking at something that doesn't interest you.
Never view a property alone. It's a good idea to take along someone with different tastes from you, They may spot things you miss.
Always view in daylight hours as you'll be able to see better. It will also give you an idea of how much natural light the property gets and see the views from each window.
Ideally, try to view again in the evening, perhaps during rush hour. This will give you a different perspective and an idea about noise, how busy the area is, car parking, etc. |
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Viewing Checklist
1. Do the doors and locks function properly?
- Secure
- Fits frame
- Proper hardware
- Weather tight and rodent proof
2. Are the walls and ceilings in good condition?
- No loose wallpaper
- Free from holes
- No loose plaster
- No flaking, chipping, caulking or peeling paint
- Free from water damage
- Make sure the ceiling height is adequate everywhere in the property
3. Do the windows function well?
- Are they weather-tight?
- Free of defects?
- No broken / cracked glass
- Window frames must be free of cracked, chipped, peeling, chalking, or flaking paint and caulk
- Easily openable?
- Capable of being held in position by window hardware
4. Do the faucets function well? Do they drip or not?
5. Is the plumbing system in proper working order?
6. Are there any cracks or flaws on the floors?
7. Check lights and ventilation in every room
8. In the kitchen:
- Hot and cold running water
- Kitchen sink properly connected to sanitary sewer
- No dripping faucets
- Drains must function properly, free of obstruction
- Cabinet doors must be closing
- Supplied or provided appliances in good working condition
- Gas appliances must be connected properly with approved fittings / connectors
9. In the bathroom(s):
- Hot and cold running water
- A tub or shower properly installed, maintained and in good repair with caulking intact
- A washbasin properly installed, maintained and in good repair with caulking intact
- Properly installed toilet with all components intact and properly secured, maintained and functioning
- One light fixture required
- Bathroom cabinets must be in good condition
- No leaking faucets
- Water-impervious flooring
- Either an open window or mechanical venting required
10. Do the water heater and air-conditioner function well?
11. Are the gas pipes in proper working order?
12. Do all the electronic outlets work?
- Are they safe?
- Do they conform to Hong Kong standards?
- Are all fuses grounded?
13. Where is the nearest fire escape? Is this unobstructed?
14. Does the property have central heating?
15. Has any building work been done on the property since the owners moved in?
16. Special checking if it’s a house:
- Exterior: check peeling, chipping, caulking, flaking or deteriorated paint
- Roof: check it’s free of leaks, structurally sound with no loose or missing shingles
- Garage: Not open to trespassers, secured with lock(s), exterior surfaces weather-protected
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Checking the surroundings
- Is there allocated parking?
- If there isn't, is it easy to park?
- Does it have a private or shared garden?
- What are the local schools like?
- Are transport links good?
- How far is the nearest train station?
- Is the area noisy?
- Where are the nearest shops?
- Check out the neighbours?
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