Before we start, the most important point that we want to make is to engage credible Renovators. This will ease your concerns and involvement in post-renovation defect checks and/or rectifications that may delay your renovation timeline.
It's entirely normal to encounter some defects post-renovation, and your renovator's role includes resolving these issues through rectification works.
Reliable renovators have proper systems in place to inspect for defects before handing over the home to you.
Upon handover, you will have a grace period (usually 14-days) to compile a list of defects. During this time, you should be observant in checking for any potential defects or issues and voice out any concerns you might have. If any concerns arise after the grace period, clarifying responsibility could become less straightforward.
The 7 Post-Renovation "Defect Checks" You Should Do:
1. Hollow Tiles: This is caused by uneven application of adhesive below the tiles. You can check for hollowness by tapping on them – tiles that give off a lower-pitch noise are likely to be hollow.
2. Water Flow: Flooring for wet areas needs to have sufficient slope to allow water to flow efficiently to the drainage. You can pour water on wet areas to check for slow drainage issues.
3. Floor Levelling: Uneven flooring can lead to warping of your tiles, furniture instability, and safety hazards. Check if the angle of the flooring is levelled (this is most accurately assessed using a spirit levelling tool).
4. Fitments: Defects on hinges of doors, carpentry works, windows can hasten wear and tear. You should open and close fitments multiple times at different speeds to check for defects.
5. Toilet Fittings: Leaks or loose fittings on toilet accessories (sink, basin, showers) can cause moulding and hasten wear and tear. Check for leaks by running the tap on your basin. Lightly push or rock your fittings to see if it moves.
6. Electricals: Test and ensure all electrical points and light switches are working. If you find any loosely fitted electrical points or switches, sound it off.
7. Misc. Defect Checks: Look out for general defects in renovated areas e.g. noticeable scratches on materials, peeling laminates, uneven painting etc.
