Construction Quality Checklist: 10 Things Every Homebuyer Has to Check

While purchasing a home, one can easily be impressed by flashy interiors and photogenic brochures. But what counts under the surface is the quality of construction—because that decides the safety, longevity, and overall worth of the home.

✅ 1. Foundation Type & Soil Testing

The whole structure stands on the foundation. Its strength is determined by the kind of soil below.

Questions to Ask:

Is soil testing carried out?

What kind of foundation has been utilized (Raft, Pile, etc.)?

Is the ground reclaimed or naturally hard?

✅ Why It Matters: Poor foundation or weak soil can cause cracks, tilts, or even structural collapse in the long run.

2. Structural Design & Load-Bearing Strength

Ensure that the building conforms to accepted architectural and structural engineering designs.

What to Check:

Beam-column structure with RCC frame

Load distribution clearness

Quality of used steel and cement

✅ Tip: Request the report or certificate of the structural engineer if available.

3. Brickwork & Plastering

The walls should be level, plumb, and well-plastered.

Check for:

Hollow ringing upon tapping (could signify poor bonding)

Visible cracks or uneven surface

Peeling plaster or water marks

✅ Why It Matters: Poor brickwork impacts insulation, longevity, and looks.

4. Doors, Frames & Woodwork

Inspect both primary and interior doors.

What to Check:

Are door frames constructed from solid wood or hollow board?

Are doors closing correctly and featuring smooth hinges?

Is the finish smooth and unscratchable?

✅ Tip: Tap on the wood to see if it's hollow within.

5. Windows & VentilationAdequately designed windows provide natural light and air flow.

Inspect: Aluminum or UPVC frames for rusting or warping

Smooth sliding/trap action

Proper lock system and sealing

✅ Bonus: Check if mosquito mesh and grills are provided.

6. Bathroom & Plumbing Work

Bathrooms are a hidden spot where shoddy workmanship reveals itself promptly.

Check: Tile is sloping towards the drain (no water stagnation)

Quality of sanitary ware (Jaguar, Hindware, etc.)

Check under sinks for leak-proof joints

Water pressure in taps and flush

✅ Test: Flush all taps and open all taps to test flow and drainage.

7. Electrical Fittings & Wiring

Safety begins with safe wiring and fittings.

Check:

Modular switches (Anchor, Legrand, etc.)

Socket alignment and position

MCBs and ELCBs in the main distribution box

Concealed wiring? Get information on insulation type.

✅ Tip: Use a tester to identify live current.

8. Flooring & Tile Work

Flooring shows attention to detail.

Inspect:

Tile alignment and finishing

Hollow tiles (light tap on them)

No unevenness or sharp edges

Grout lines properly filled

✅ Typical Materials: Vitrified tiles, granite, anti-skid tiles in wet zones.

9. Paint Quality & Wall Finish

Appearance matters—but so does durability.

Check for: Smooth, even paint coats with no patchiness

Moisture bubbles or cracks (bad omen)

Reputed paint brands applied (Asian, Berger, Dulux)

✅ Tip: Touch the wall—bad paint flakes or powders.

10. Common Areas & Lifts

Don't only check your unit—inspect the building as a whole.

Review: Lift brand (Schindler, KONE, etc.)

Clean, well-lit corridors

Painted/sturdy staircase railings

Fire safety equipment such as extinguishers and exit signage

✅ Why It Matters:

You're sharing these areas with neighbors—proper maintenance contributes to resale value.

Final Words

A stunning flat with subpar construction is a time bomb waiting to happen. Invest the time to visit, inquire, and confirm the quality of construction before you shell out that last payment.

Even if you're purchasing from a well-known builder, never omit your own inspection—it's your investment, after all.

Need professional assistance to assess a property's construction prior to purchasing?

At Estatesquad we provide expert-led site tours and impartial evaluations to enable you to make informed decisions.