As a home buyer, it's essential to know that every property type has its own unique challenges and key points to watch for in the tilstandsrapport (condition report). Below you can read what you should specifically be aware of for the different property types.
Detached houses from the 1960s and 70s Detached houses from this period are among Denmark's most common property types, and they come with their own particular points to watch. The roof structure is often a critical area, where many houses from this period can have problems with leaks or inadequate ventilation.
Another typical focus point is the crawl space, found in many of these houses. Here we often see issues with moisture and mould, especially if ventilation is insufficient. Our building surveyor therefore always examines these areas thoroughly.
In terms of insulation, these houses are also often a challenge. Many have had additional insulation added over the years, but the quality and effectiveness of these improvements can vary considerably. This will typically show up in both the condition report and the energy label.
The classic murermestervilla (master builder's villa) The beautiful murermestervillaer from the early 1900s have their own particular charm, but also their own particular challenges. The foundation is a critical point, as many of these houses were built before modern damp-proofing became standard. Our building surveyor looks especially for cracking and signs of subsidence damage.
The basement is another focus area. Damp problems are common, as the original basement walls are rarely damp-proofed to modern standards. We always examine thoroughly for both visible and hidden moisture damage.
The original installations can also be a challenge. If electrical installations and pipes have not been replaced, this will often be highlighted in the condition report as a potential problem area.
Holiday homes For holiday homes, the building envelope - that is, the house's outer shell - is particularly important. These buildings often stand unheated for extended periods, which places particular demands on the construction. Our building surveyor looks especially for:
- The condition and ventilation of the roof structure
- Maintenance of the facade cladding
- The tightness of windows and doors
- Signs of pest infestation in timber
Ventilation is especially critical in holiday homes, as they often stand closed up for extended periods. This can lead to damp problems and mould if ventilation is insufficient.
Owner-occupied flats For owner-occupied flats, it's important to understand that the condition report focuses on the flat itself, while the property's common areas are typically not covered. Even so, it's still important to be aware of:
Interior installations, particularly in older buildings where pipes and electrical installations may be worn. We often look for signs of water damage from leaking pipes or soil stacks.
Balconies require particular attention, as their condition can have a significant impact on both safety and finances. Our building surveyor examines thoroughly for rust and other damage.
How does Bomae help you? Whichever property type you're considering buying, it's important to get a professional assessment of the condition report.
At Bomae, our building surveyors, such as Bue Højlund with over 12 years of experience, have seen thousands of homes and know the typical problem areas for each property type.
We help you to:
- Understand what the condition report means for your specific property type
- Identify particular risk areas
- Assess the financial consequences of any damage
- Plan future maintenance
Concrete examples from our experience We recently helped Nina and Tim buy a murermestervilla in Køge. Our thorough review revealed some critical issues concerning the basement's damp-proofing, which were not clearly described in the condition report. This led to a price reduction of 117,000 kr. and a plan to remedy the problems.
In another case, we helped Lars with the purchase of a 1970s detached house in Copenhagen. Here we identified some challenges with the roof structure, which required closer inspection. The result was a price reduction of 195,000 kr. and a clear renovation plan.
