The first 90 days in a new home reveal most of the maintenance issues the previous owner did not disclose. This checklist helps you find them early.
Before you move in: the basics to check
If possible, arrange a pre-occupation inspection before moving day. Check: all water pressure and drainage at each tap and basin, toilet flushing and cistern refill, geyser operation and geyser age (check the installation date on the data plate), all electrical sockets and switches, earth leakage and distribution board condition, all door and window locks and frames, roof condition from outside, any visible damp on interior walls and ceilings, garage door and gate motor operation, and condition of all boundary walls and fencing.
Week one: urgent items only
Resist the urge to renovate everything at once. In the first week, address only what is genuinely urgent: active leaks, electrical faults, locks that do not work, and a geyser that is at end of life. Note everything else but do not book it yet. You will discover more issues in the first few months of living in the home.
First month: structural and weatherproofing
After the first significant rain, inspect the roof, ceiling and all exterior walls for leaks or damp. Bloemfontein's summer thunderstorms are the best test. Check the gutters and downpipes after rain. Identify any areas where water pools against the foundation or boundary walls. These problems are best repaired before winter.
Three months in: maintenance priorities
By three months you will have a realistic list. Prioritise: waterproofing and roof repairs (prevent ongoing water damage), electrical faults (safety), geyser if it is more than 10 years old (failure risk), and external paintwork if it is peeling (prevents structural deterioration). Tiling, cosmetic painting and renovation projects can follow in a planned sequence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a professional property inspection before buying in Bloemfontein?
A professional inspection before transfer gives you an objective view of the property's condition. It can reveal roof, plumbing, electrical and damp issues that are not visible during a standard viewing. The cost is modest relative to the risks of discovering major problems after transfer.
What are the most common hidden problems in Bloemfontein properties?
Roof leaks, rising damp on boundary walls, failing geyser pressure control valves, and ageing distribution boards are the most common issues found in Bloemfontein homes that have not been recently maintained.
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