For most people, a home is the largest single purchase of their lives. A pre-purchase inspection costs a fraction of the sale price, yet it can save tens of thousands of euros and prevent disputes that last for years.
What is a pre-purchase building inspection?
In Finland, a pre-purchase inspection (asuntokaupan kuntotarkastus) is an inspection of a residential building intended to give both parties impartial information about its condition. It is carried out according to the current Rakennustieto guideline RT 103996.
The inspection is mainly visual and non-destructive. The inspector cannot see inside structures unless they are specifically opened. This is important to understand when reading the report.
What does the inspection cover?
- the exterior: façades, roof, plinth and outdoor areas
- the interior: living spaces, basement and loft
- bathrooms and other wet rooms
- building services by visual inspection
- surface moisture measurements at high-risk locations
- identification of risk structures and recommendations for further investigation
- a written report on the findings and their significance
What is not included?
- structural openings or drilling, unless separately agreed
- any opinion on the sale price or whether the purchase makes sense
- a guarantee of the building's condition
- a detailed functional test of the building services
Should the buyer or the seller order the inspection?
The buyer
The buyer wants to know what they are committing to. An inspection can reveal issues the seller is unaware of, or confirm that the building is in good condition. Either way, the information is valuable.
The seller
An inspection before listing gives the seller the chance to repair defects or price the property correctly. It also speeds up the sale and reduces the risk of claims afterwards.
How to read the report
The report classifies findings by significance and urgency and recommends any further action. Pay particular attention to risk structures and recommendations for further investigation, as they show where hidden damage is possible.
Remember
Findings do not automatically mean the sale should be cancelled or the price reduced. They are information on which to base your decisions.
Book an inspection
We carry out pre-purchase inspections of detached, semi-detached and terraced houses. Our reports are clear, and we are happy to go through the results with you, in English or Finnish. Get in touch to book an inspection.