A practical sequence for checking the building, testing equipment, understanding costs and planning the next checks.
A viewing is for collecting evidence, not only impressions. Check access, parking, noise, sunlight, neighbouring buildings and shared areas before entering.
Inside, look for damp, localised fresh paint, condensation, cracks and drainage. Test taps, windows, shutters, heating and included equipment. Ask about the age of electrics and plumbing, and measure essential rooms.
Request the use documentation where applicable, energy certificate, works history, IMI, condominium charges and planned shared works. Visit the street at different times and check internet, noise and real travel times.
Slow down if there is pressure to pay, documents are withheld, areas do not match or building and return promises lack evidence. A second visit with a technical expert can be worthwhile.
One record for each property
Record the reference, time, weather and people present. Mark each finding observed, seller-reported, to verify or not inspected, then add evidence required and responsible person. A dry wall during one visit does not prove that leaks never occur.
| Area / type | Observe | Verify afterwards |
|---|---|---|
| Each room | Light, dimensions, ventilation, odours, windows and included equipment | Documented area and maintenance |
| Apartment | Access, lift and common areas | Minutes, approved works and charges/debts statement |
| House | Roof, façades, drainage and annexes | Independent inspection and municipal/registry consistency |
| Pool | Surface, equipment room, barriers and permitted operation | Documentation, maintenance, leaks and technical quote |
| Land | Access route, markers, water and slope | Rights, boundaries, easements and planning constraints |
Test only with permission and safely. Do not open electrical panels, climb roofs or enter unstable areas. Photograph with permission and avoid people or personal documents.
Afterwards choose to proceed, revisit or pause pending essential evidence. Turn “is there damp?” into where, when, what repair and what proof. Take unresolved points to the property file review and CPCV review.
Editorial review: 21 October 2026. This is a practical editorial worksheet. Document and energy references: Casa Pronta and SCE consumers. It is not a survey, diagnosis or legal clearance.
Official sources and references
Links consulted and cited in the article. Always check the current version for your circumstances.
Editorial note
Prepared by FRANETIC using identified sources. General information only; legal, tax, banking, technical and planning matters require case-specific validation.
