It’s cheaper to buy than to build
It is still much cheaper to buy an existing house than to build a similar size new house. Second hand housing in South Africa is now on average one third cheaper than similar size new housing. However, buyers of second hand housing are advised to make their purchase subject to a home inspection to make […]
How valid is your electrical CoC?
One of the most common complaints heard by HouseCheck inspectors is that the electrical compliance certificate issued at the time of transfer “is not worth the paper it is written on”. John Graham, CEO of HouseCheck explains that after 1994 the Department of Labour introduced sweeping internal management changes, which greatly reduced the effectiveness of […]
HouseCheck uses moisture meters to diagnose damp
Moisture meters are an important tool in the HouseCheck inspector’s kit. During a recent inspection one of our inspectors observed that rain water was penetrating through the opening between the meter box and the plastered wall and had run down the conduit, causing the plug that was located on the opposite side of the wall […]
Damp damage on back of shower wall
Damp damage on the opposite side of a wall which encloses a shower is usually the result of a sealing or plumbing problem in the shower. Common areas of water ingress from the shower are a leaking pipe or drain, a problem behind the bezel (shower tap cover) or poor grouting or sealing of the […]
Moisture damaged safety glass
The safety glass glazing in the window shown has delaminated in places. This is caused by water ingress between the two laminated glass sheets. An examination of the rubber and aluminum beading of this windows showed that this area requires sealing with silicone. Because of the cost factor it was not recommended that the damaged […]
Faulty wiring in the roof cavity
A HouseCheck inspection (normally paid for by the buyer) does not substitute for the compulsory electrical compliance certification (normally paid for by the seller). However, HouseCheck inspectors are trained to spot and document problems with the electrical installation – such as this illegal cable joint in a roof cavity. Lack of junction boxes, open junction […]
Electric fence dangers
Electrical fencing can be extremely dangerous if not properly installed by a qualified expert. John Graham CEO of HouseCheck says non-compliant electric fencing is now also illegal in South Africa and property owners – including home owners, body corporates and businesses – are at risk if someone gets hurt because their electric fence installation is […]
Regular home maintenance pays big dividends
One way to keep maintenance “doable” is to pick one room per year to improve. If you think of home maintenance as an unavoidable series of weekend-eating chores, remember prevention is easier than cure. Proactive maintenance is essential to preserving the value of your home—without it the value of your home will be affected. Regular, […]
Downside of the voetstoots clause
Guest Blog by Lea Jacobs of Private Property Buying a home should be one of life’s most exciting experiences, but unfortunately, unless buyers know what to look for, it can prove to be a lot more costly than originally budgeted for. Most of us (unless we have a legal background) do not understand the voetstoots […]
Energy costs now important factor for home buyers to consider
With the cost of electricity set to soar by a huge 16 percent annually for the next five years, buyers should focus one energy saving when shopping for a home. Properties offering solar panels, battery packs, back-up generators, energy-saving shower heads and energy-efficient appliances such as gas stoves make serious financial sense for those wanting […]