Defects to Look Out for When Searching for Port Coquitlam Real Estate
Due the demand for rental houses in large metropolitan areas such as Port Coquitlam, construction firms are building many new townhomes, apartment buildings and condominiums among other types of real estate. However, when looking for Port Coquitlam real estate for sale, it is essential not to rush your purchasing decision, particularly when looking at new apartment buildings. Making repairs on a new property can be a great inconvenience and it can also be very expensive.
It is common to find problems in new homes in Port Coquitlam. The main reason for this is the cost cutting strategies that developers or contractors often use. Serious defects can also bring about lawsuits and expensive repairs that in turn cause rental prices to rise. Therefore, before inventing in a real estate property, you should have it inspected. This will let you know if there are defective spots on the newly constructed building. It is wise to work with an inspector who is reputable. A good example of such an inspector is one who works for a professional organization. Make sure that you get the house inspection report in writing. The following are some of the most common defects found in townhomes for sale in Port Coquitlam.
Facade Leaks
Façade leaks are very common defects in new buildings that utilize unique or creative designs. These buildings may have exterior façade defects like leaking walls and unsealed windows. These construction defects raise the likelihood of water entering into the building. This may lead to additional structural problems that cost a lot of money to repair.
Problems with wood flooring
Even though wood floors are less costly to maintain when compared to carpeting, you can spend a lot of money in repairing them if they are incorrectly installed. Floors made from natural wood need to set and acclimate to the environment before they are installed. Even though this has taken place, wooden floors can contract or expand as a result of changes in moisture. Warping can also take place due to leaks from ceilings or walls. Therefore, it is essential to have the building inspected for problems with the exterior façade.
Problems with airflow and ventilation
Airflow and ventilation issues are common in high-rise buildings. Since high-rise buildings are sealed from the exterior, once the heating system is on, hot air in the lower floors is drawn through different units and rises through the halls. This creates negative pressure. In order to prevent this problem, proper ventilation and exhaust systems have to be installed. When inspecting condos Port Coquitlam, inspectors should utilize an anemometer to check the wind speed, air speed and pressure.
Substitutions
At times, building plans do not specify which features should be used. For this reason, developers may substitute items that appear similar in appearance or quality with other lower priced items. It is not easy to prove that a particular feature is of a better quality than another. In most cases, new home builders in Port Coquitlam substitute high quality features for lower quality features in order to reduce contraction costs. This can result in inferior quality of construction.
Leaking windows
The windows on homes for sale in Port Coquitlam may develop leaks and drafts if they were not installed properly or as a result of debris settling. This problem can be prevented by cleaning the windows regularly. It is also essential to wipe away all the grime from windows after construction activities are over.
Fire sealing defects
In most new developments Port Coquitlam, the apartment halls have fire doors and are equipped with fire extinguishers. Another important fire precaution feature is the fire stopping seal. Fire stopping seals go around ducts, conduits and pipes that in turn go through fireproof walls and floors. Fire sealing defects around fire stopping seals are a common occurrence and it is not easy to detect them.
Conclusion
There are many other defects that a professional inspector can look for such as the condition of electrical, heating, plumbing and air conditioning systems. He or she can also inspect the basement of a real estate property. The basement should be clean and free of clutter. By hiring an inspector, you can be able to make the right decision as to whether to go ahead with the decision to purchase a home or to continue viewing other townhouses for sale in Port Coquitlam. You will also be able to gauge the extra costs of possible upgrades or repairs. If something needs to be replaced or repaired, you can negotiate with seller to lower the price.
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