Checklist: Preparing Your Home for Sale Christchurch / Canterbury

1. Exterior and cladding

Check for cracks, separation at cladding joins and junctions, and degradation of cladding elements. Confirm the cladding type and research any related issues.
Ensure paintwork is in good or reasonable condition and not deteriorated.
Look for signs of water staining around windows, doors, and eaves.
Check for signs of potential settlement or cracking in brickwork.
If your property has a directly fixed plaster cladding system with no vented cavity system, buyers may request a recent or current weathertightness assessment. This is particularly relevant for homes built from the 1980s to around 2006. Refer to construction drawings if unsure.

Inspect the roof for missing or damaged tiles, rust, loose iron, or loose fixings. If Butynol membrane roofing is older than 15 years, maintenance is likely needed.
Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear and draining properly.
Ensure windows and doors open and close easily and are weather-tight. Check seals.
Check flashings and junctions are intact and functioning correctly.
Properties built between the 1980s and mid-2000s with Klass internal soffit gutters can be prone to leaks. Professional inspection is recommended.

Ensure surface water drains away from the house and avoid ponding near foundations.
Clear and check all stormwater drains and grates. Drainage inspections are advised for properties affected by earthquakes.
Inspect for signs of subfloor dampness or water pooling.
Ensure external ground levels are not touching or too close to cladding or joinery.

Check for visible cracking in foundations, walls, or slab edges.
Confirm any earthquake repairs were completed professionally and fully signed off.
Provide EQC and insurance documentation where applicable.
Ensure floor levels are within MBIE guidelines, especially for properties affected by the Canterbury earthquakes. If floor levels exceed these guidelines, an engineer's confirmation may be required.
Check for any signs of leaks beneath the subfloor.
Ensure piles and subfloor framing are in suitable condition.

Check that interior linings are in reasonable condition for the property's age with no signs of cracking or movement.
Check the condition of floor coverings.
Ensure all doors and windows latch properly and are not warped or failing to seal.

Confirm there is a working fixed heating source in the main living area.
Ensure ceiling and underfloor insulation meet current standards or are in reasonable condition for age.
Provide any compliance reports or Healthy Homes certificates.
Consider installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms if missing.

Fix any leaky taps and running toilets, and check water pressure.
Check all lights and power outlets are functional.
Ensure the hot water system is operating correctly.
If the switchboard is outdated, for example ceramic fuses, consider an upgrade.
Electrical, plumbing, or drainage inspections are recommended for homes built in the 1990s or earlier.
Check for problematic Dux Quest piping, common in homes built in the 1980s to early 1990s.

EQC scope of works and completion confirmation, if applicable.
LIM report or pre-sale property file. Optional but useful, usually around $300.
Council property file, which often contains more information than a LIM report. Usually under $50.
Healthy Homes statement, required if selling as a rental.
Supporting documentation and sign-offs for any structural repairs or alterations.
Asbestos information. Homes built before 2000 likely contain asbestos materials, and these should be identified and in safe condition.

Building report. A detailed independent report is preferable to the generic reports often referred by agents. Reviewing sample reports before engaging an inspector is a good idea to ensure they cover critical items.
Methamphetamine testing, if relevant.
Moisture testing, especially important for plaster-clad homes.
Floor level check, especially for properties that have experienced earthquake damage, even if no issues are apparent.