Moving into a new home can be an exciting and life-changing prospect, especially if you’ve spent years saving and planning. Given the turbulence and competitiveness of the UK property market, securing your own new-build home should be a cause for celebration – however, with 99% of customers reporting problems with their new homes in 2018, it’s become increasingly important to check your property for issues and defects that could cost you in the long run. Take a closer look at this essential checklist for moving into a new build home:

1: Why is it important to check a new build home?: Whereas new build homes may be greener and more cost-effective than their older counterparts, there has been an increase in reported problems related to shoddy workmanship when designing and constructing newer properties. Whether this leads to minor inconvenience or major renovation, it can be extremely stressful and potentially expensive for new homeowners – but which specific issues should you pay the most attention to when checking your property?

2: Structural issues: Structural issues are amongst the most serious problems you could face when checking your new home – structural integrity is essential for your safety and the long-term health of your property. Typical indicators include rotting wood, cracked windows and foundations, standing water (lack of drainage) and warped, cracked or uneven floors. Your contractor could be guilty of professional negligence if you find structural integrity problems in a new build, so ensure that you make the necessary checks.

3: Electrical and heating issues: Amidst rising energy costs and with some new homes facing a lack of grid access, it’s essential that you double-check your new home’s electricity and heating before moving in. This includes checking all electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, boilers and heating systems for signs of wear or malfunction.

4: Weep vents: Weep vents circulate air behind brick walls and gaps in the home in order to prevent damp and rot. Unfortunately, many new build homes may feature cheap or improper weep vents that can lead to deterioration and renovation down the line. You can easily test your weep vents yourself, or hire a professional to check them out. If you’re worried about pests getting in through wider weep vents, you can use wire wool to block access whilst maintaining functionality.

5: Doors and Seals: While windows and doors also work to prevent damp, they are essential for proper insulation, energy efficiency, security and even pest control. Ensure that all doors and windows in your property are tightly sealed in order to prevent heat loss, keep energy bills low and reduce the chances of pest infestation or burglary in your new build home.