This house has literally caught your eye and you're ready to sign a provisional sales agreement to become its proud owner. But have you really checked everything? Aren't you in for some nasty surprises? Our checklist of things to check.

Your future property under the microscope

When you buy a property in Luxembourg, the seller is obliged to provide you with a number of compulsory diagnoses, such as the energy performance certificate. This should not prevent you from inspecting the house with the help of a building professional, if necessary.

• The roofCheck that it is in good condition, ask for all the bills. You don't want to have to change it next year!
• The frameworkYou should also visit the attic to check that the wood is sound, without any traces of moisture or termites. You will also need to do the same for the exterior joinery.
• The foundationsNo need to dig, but take a good look at the walls, doors and windows and look for cracks.
• Exterior wallsThe condition of the cladding is what protects your house.
• Interior walls and ceilingsLook for any traces of moisture (including behind furniture), drips, mould, etc.
• Brightness and exposure The best thing to do is to visit the property several times and at different times of the day. This will allow you to see how bright it is, but also (open the windows!) how noisy it is.
• Ventilation The health of the house - and yours - depends on its good condition.
• Kitchen, sanitary and plumbing The condition of the water rooms, their equipment and the plumbing should be carefully inspected. Ask for the water bills and open the taps! Also think about the sewage system.
• Electrical installationIt is a question of safety, so you must make sure that it complies with the standards in force, and check the condition of the sockets, the switchboard and the connections.
• The heating system In addition to the condition of the equipment, information on its annual cost is a priority. It may also be that a high bill is a sign of poor insulation.

You may be interested in this article: The compromise sale: what commitment?

And that's not all...

A house may look perfect to you, even after you have examined it in every corner. However, you must guard against hidden defects.

• Administrative defectsIf, for example, work has been carried out without prior authorisation.
• Hidden defectsIf work has been carried out recently, check that it is covered by dedicated insurance.

Do you think that's enough? You still have a few questions to ask, if necessary about the amount of the co-ownership charges, but also about a possible private easement on your land, an equally possible urban right of pre-emption, etc. Finally, do not hesitate to obtain all the necessary information from the local authorities (flood zones, risk prevention, etc.).