Quick guide · 3 min read
The 8 things worth checking at every open home
You've got 15 minutes and three other properties to see today. Here's what's actually worth your attention — the things that could change your offer, not just your to-do list.
01
Cracking in walls or brickwork
02
Wood rot on external timbers
Fascia boards, posts and other exposed timber.
03
Water stains or sagging ceilings, especially below wet areas & balconies
04
A musty smell or damp patches
Photograph the room, then add a note describing the smell — the photo plus your note gives the full picture.
05
Soft or springy floors, especially near wet areas
Walk it slowly and note where it feels soft, along with a photo of the area.
06
Bathroom — cracked tiles, missing grout, water stains
07
Poor site drainage
Check if the ground slopes towards the house, not just for puddles.
08
Doors and windows that stick or don't close properly
Note which ones and how many, and take a photo of where it jams.
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Longer time to inspect?
Planning a follow-up inspection?
Doing a self-assessment of your own home?
Longer time to inspect?
Planning a follow-up inspection?
Doing a self-assessment of your own home?
Jack's complete room-by-room guide covers everything in more detail.
Read the complete guide →
"Your own inspection is a great first step for deciding whether to investigate more or walk away - think of it as knowing what questions to ask before you get there. If something on this list catches your eye, that's exactly the moment to slow down, take a photo and ask."
This guide is general education, not a substitute for a licensed building and pest inspection. Dwello's photo-based reports are a starting point for your own research and don't replace professional advice. Always engage a licensed inspector before making a purchase decision.
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