Inspecting a New-Build House in Chiang Mai Before Transfer — A Complete Checklist and Common Defects Found

Inspecting a New-Build House in Chiang Mai Before Transfer — A Complete Checklist and Common Defects Found

Pre-transfer inspection is a critical buyer right — and the only opportunity where the developer must fix issues at no cost to you.

What to Bring to the Inspection

Equipment: Tape measure, flat-head screwdriver, outlet tester, flashlight, marble or spirit level, notebook and pen, camera or phone.

External Checklist

☐ Fence and gate: Matches plan, no cracks, hinges and latches work fully
☐ Roof: No cracked tiles, no cracks at roof edges, gutters connected properly
☐ External walls: No cracks, water seepage, or peeling paint
☐ Surrounding area and parking: Correct drainage slope, no standing water
☐ Drains: Not blocked, covers all present

Structure and Wall Checklist

☐ Internal walls: No cracks — especially diagonal cracks at door and window corners (may indicate structural issues)
☐ Floors: Walk-test every section, listen for hollow sounds, verify level
☐ Ceiling: No water seepage marks, yellowing, or cracks

Electrical Checklist

☐ Test every outlet with an outlet tester — every point in every room
☐ Every light switch: test on/off, verify correct light control
☐ Circuit breaker panel: complete and clearly labeled
☐ TV and LAN points: complete per plan

Plumbing Checklist

☐ Every tap: open all taps, check water pressure and leaks
☐ Toilet: flush, verify it stops after flushing
☐ All drains: water flows freely, no odors
☐ Water storage tank: verify size and installation

Bathroom Checklist

☐ Wall and floor tiles: no cracks, tap-test for hollow sounds
☐ Bathroom door: opens and closes fully, not swollen
☐ Ventilation: functioning normally

Door and Window Checklist

☐ Every door: opens and closes fully, locks, no air gaps around frame
☐ Every window: opens and closes, glass intact, sealant complete

Commonly Found Defects in New Chiang Mai Houses

Hair cracks in walls: Very common — result of cement shrinkage, easy to repair; non-functioning outlets: Common, easy fix; hollow-sounding floor tiles: Developer must replace; below-specification water pressure: System may need adjustment.

What to Do When Defects Are Found

Document and photograph every problem point; submit the list to the developer in writing; do not accept transfer until all issues are resolved, or obtain a written commitment specifying repair deadline.

MORE Value. MORE Trust. Always.
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