Buying a near-new estate home in Sunbury
What to look for in a house only a few years old.
In short: A nearly new house can still carry defects the first owner never raised. Some may still be within the builder's warranty.
Drainage first
Downpipes not connected and ground not graded away from the slab show up in near-new houses.
Wet areas
Failed sealant and cracked tiles appear within a few years if the original work was rushed.
Roof and gutters
Gutters holding water and degraded flashing sealant are worth catching early.
Warranty
Defective building work can generally be claimed within 10 years of the occupancy permit, so note anything that looks like original workmanship.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Sunbury. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
