If you are planning to buy a house then it is best advised to check its strength and construction quality before making the purchase. But what are the areas one must dig deep while exploring the construction quality of the house? Read on to find out 7 important points that must be covered while checking the strength of the house.
Exploring the Soil Quality
It is important to observe the quality and variety of soil on which the building stands as the soil is the most important element that determines the strength of the foundation. It should not be forgotten that clay-rich soil and black cotton soil are not ideal for high-rise buildings as these tend to swell and shrink, depending upon the level of moisture and water. Soil test conducted before the construction can also throw a good deal of light on the quality of soil and can be checked before making the final purchase.
Structural Design Matters
It is possible for a person to lack the expertise to assess structural nitty-gritty. Such people would do well to hire an expert who would check the design and structural strength of the building and would assess the construction quality in terms of its earthquake resistance, fire-fighting arrangements and the availability of emergency exits.
Assess Wall Thickness
The developers must reveal the thickness of the walls in the layout agreements. However, it is advised that the buyer must visit the site to check whether the information given is indeed correct. One of the checks that can be conducted to assess the strength of the wall is to press a key against it. If it can make a hole easily in the wall then the builder must be enquired about the concrete mix. Tapping the wall with the knuckles would reveal its hollowness or the use of plywood inside the walls. Though plywood walls add strength to the structure but can be damaged by termites if not treated properly.
Inspect Paint Quality
It is important to check uneven cracks on the wall plastering. Even an innocent-looking crack can reveal a lot about the quality of the paint used. Lack of curing can also create cracks in the walls which would increase with time. Superior quality paint can no doubt add to the visual appeal as well as the life of the walls but lack of proper curing can damage the wall before time.
Sanitary Wares and Bathroom Fittings No Less Important
The best way how you can judge the quality of sanitary ceramics and accessories such as face cleaners, bidets, toilets, washbasins is to check their overall shape, superior fitting and their comfort factor. To check the cracks one needs to gently tap them. A hoarse sound would confirm the presence of cracks. One can also check whether the mounting surface is even and smooth. To check the bathroom fittings, it would be a good idea to check the water flow and speed, the type of faucets used and how convenient would it be to change or find its parts. One should also not forget to check the tiles used in the bathroom and should opt for anti-skid ones, to avoid accidents.
Seeking Third-Party Assistance
Quite a few agencies assist in carrying out a comprehensive quality check of the house. They charge on the basis of the sq ft area of the house. These services are particularly important if the property to be inspected is huge.
Role of RERA in Construction Quality
Property owners must know that under Section 14 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, it is the responsibility of the promoter/builder to rectify structural defects within five years. This provision is, however, limited to the projects and buildings that are covered under the law.
Moreover, one should also be aware of any construction activity close by as it can also damage the building. It is also important to check any leakage or seepage on the wall as these can also considerably weaken the structure.
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Thanks for the information, nicely explained…