Are you looking to purchase a condo? The most important thing you need to know about a condominium is the homeowners association (HOA). The HOA is responsible for taking care of parts of the building that are outside the walls of your suite. The HOA will collect dues to maintain the building. Many people like the idea of condo living because it can make life a lot easier and more convenient, right? No lawn to mow; no leaky roof; no broken air conditioner in the summer. But things go wrong with condos all the time. For that reason, it’s important for condo buyers to get an inspection done before they sign on the dotted line. Potential homeowners do it and condo buyers should too.

What Does a Condo Inspection Include?

Common areas of the condominium complex are not included in the inspection. Standard condominium inspections typically include looking at the electrical system, heating and air conditioning, plumbing, window and door operation, and functional condition of finishes. Walls, floors, ceilings and plumbing fixtures in your suite will be inspected, along with lighting and electrical receptacles. The inspection will also include an examination of all the interior systems and provide you with the report. This report will help you predict and anticipate future maintenance costs and uncover deficiencies so you can be prepared, renegotiate or walk away from the deal. The certificate that the condo corporation provides you is not enough. When you take the extra step to have an inspection done you are giving yourself added legal, financial and emotional security. This peace of mind is well worth the cost of the inspection. Condo inspections can cost anywhere from $250 and up. The cost will depend on the size of the suite and the time it takes to perform the inspection.

What to Look Out for when Buying a Condo

• Floors and walls that have spotting, floors that are warped, loose carpets and tiles can indicate water damage.
• Spotting on walls can also indicate mold in the unit.
• Spotting on walls can also indicate mold in the unit.
• Make sure there aren’t any gaps or missing caulking in tile work.
• Ensure there’s enough water pressure and that both hot and cold water is working.
• All drains should also be working properly.
• Identify the source of any strange smells and make sure there is adequate ventilation.
• Make sure the suite is properly ducted and vented.

Condo Buying Tips

• Read the minutes from the latest condo meetings that will disclose any maintenance problems.
• Ask for proof of all major structural repairs that have been done because once you become a partial owner, you will be liable for these repairs.
• You should also find out if the condominium corporation is involved in any ongoing and pending litigation.

Condo Inspections & More in Fulton, Spalding, Coweta, Douglas, Pike, Upson & Fayette County, Georgia

All this inspecting can’t guarantee to eliminate future problems with your condo, but it does make you a more informed owner. Make sure you choose an inspector that has the qualifications and is experienced in condo inspections. That’s where Lifeline Inspection Services comes in. Condo inspections typically take us 1-3 hours. Give us a call today!