Property Site Visit Checklist: What to Inspect Before You Decide

Photographs and brochures are useful for creating an initial shortlist, but they cannot show every detail that matters when buying a property. Before a visit, ask for the exact address, plot or unit number, floor plan and written quotation. Confirm that the property being shown is the same one described in the offer. For a plot, compare the site boundaries and plan; for an apartment, confirm the unit, floor, area measurements and whether you are viewing the actual unit or a sample apartment. During the visit, assess the approach road, entry and exit points, parking, surrounding land use, traffic, noise and access to everyday services. For an apartment or completed building, look at visible signs of dampness, leakage, cracks, damaged fittings and poor maintenance. Ask about water supply, electricity, drainage, lifts, security and the operational status of amenities. A visual check cannot establish every technical issue, so seek a qualified professional’s assessment if you notice concerns about structure or building systems. Ask for documentation relevant to the property type. Depending on the transaction, this may include ownership documents, applicable approvals, RERA information, possession documents, land-use details and transfer conditions. For a resale property, ask about existing loans, outstanding dues and the seller’s authority to transfer the property. Request a written cost breakdown and clarify which charges are included in the quoted price and which are payable separately. After the visit, record the positives, concerns and unanswered questions while the details are fresh. Take photographs where permitted and compare the property with other options using the same criteria. Do not feel obliged to decide immediately because of sales pressure or a claimed deadline. A second visit or independent legal and technical review may be worthwhile before making a financial commitment.