Buying a property is a large investment, so a technical inspection before you buy is essential to find structural, practical or legal risks. These are the ten questions to ask your home inspector to get an accurate picture of the property.
1. Are you professionally certified or licensed?
Check whether they are accredited by a recognised association and follow the local regulations.
2. What experience do you have with homes?
Years in the job and specialisation (detached houses, apartment buildings, older properties and so on) make a real difference.
3. What does your inspection cover?
Confirm that it covers the structure, electrics, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, insulation, roofs and foundations.
4. Can I come with you during the inspection?
Being there means you get explanations on the spot about anything serious they find.
5. How long does it take, and what goes in the report?
A complete report should include technical observations, photographs, risk levels and recommendations.
6. Can I see an example report?
Looking at a previous report shows you how thorough it is and how it is set out.
7. How soon will I have the final report?
The usual time is 24 to 48 hours, which matters when you are negotiating and deciding.
8. What building defects are common in this area?
Knowing the local problems is key: rising damp, uneven settlement, salt damage.
9. Do you recommend any further inspections by specialists?
In some cases you may need a structural survey, a ground study or a check of the gas installation.
10. What do you consider urgent or non-negotiable?
This lets you estimate the immediate and possible future cost of the repairs or work needed.
At Grupo Torremar we help our clients make safe decisions backed by professional technical reports. A well-directed inspection can save you significant costs later.
First published in Spanish on 29 April 2025. Figures and rates are as they stood on that date; rules change, so check them for your own case.