Checking inside

Ceilings, walls and wall tilings

• Is the surface of the plasterwork even and free from rough patches - particularly in corners and high areas?
• Has the plasterwork been neatly finished off around pipes, light switches, electric sockets etc.?
• Is all paintwork or decorative finish complete and free from blemishes?
• Do any joints show through?
• Is there any surface cracking?
• Is the grouting finished neatly between the tiles, and the tiles left clean?

Windows

• Has all paintwork been finished off, including undersides of sills?
• Is the framework free from damage?
• Is the glazing free from scratches, paint splashes and cracks?
• Do windows open and shut properly - and if locks are provided, are there keys for each window?

Doors and frames

• Do locks and bolts engage properly?
• Is there a wide angle view of the immediate area outside the front door, or a security peep hole fitted?
• Do doors open and shut properly?
• Is the paintwork complete, including hidden surfaces such as the top of the doorframe?
• Is there an even gap between doors and frames?

Staircases

• Are banisters and handrails fixed securely?
• Are the treads even and level?

Floors and skirting boards

• Is any floor tiling complete, especially around cupboards, fittings and doorways?
• Is any sheet flooring flat and free from curling edges and bubbling?
• Are the floors generally clean?
• Is the skirting woodwork and paintwork undamaged and free from defects?

Pipes, radiators and fireplaces

• Do pipes appear secure?
• Are radiators fixed to the wall properly, and are there any signs of leaks?
• Are the radiators painted?
• Is the fireplace surround clean and undamaged?

Kitchens and bathrooms

• Are all sanitary fittings undamaged and clean?
• Are labels removed - except for specific instructions?
• Is the bath panel fitted?
• Does the WC flush and refill properly?
• Are all kitchen units and worktops free from damage?
• Are units, particularly wall units, fixed adequately and free from paint splashes?
• Are the doors of cupboards hung correctly?
• Do all doors and drawers open correctly?
• Check under the sink for possible leaks?

Appliances

• Are all appliances undamaged?
• Have operating instructions and relevant guarantees been provided?
• Are any extractor fans fitted correctly and in working order?

Loft space

• Is the loft insulated?
• Are water pipes and tanks insulated?
• Is gangway boarding to tanks provided and fixed adequately?

Remember, most roof spaces have to be ventilated.

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