Unlike the UK, the surveying of a property before purchase is not a legal requirement and there are many who buy purely on sight. That said, just because many Portuguese rely on their own eye, it is not advisable to follow the same route. Obviously the level of inspection is very much dependant on the type and location of property you have or are about to purchase.
When buying older houses there are several important checks that one should make, especially with supply and condition of electrics, plumbing and waste i.e. is there a septic tank and what is the condition? If there is no mains water or electric how far away is the connection supply, if the water is from a well or bore-hole get it tested, is the property prone to any flooding or subsidence? Within Portugal many homes built in the 1970’s and 1980’s were not controlled by sufficient regulations and it is recommended that a survey for this age of property is carried out by a property surveyor in Portugal,. It is also important that where possible receipts of any work carried out on a property is obtained.
Other precautions to take are making sure that your boundaries are clearly marked on both the Escitura and on the property, are there any rights of way over the property, and are there any plans for any buildings or roads close to your property. If looking at purchasing a plot of land for a self-build project, there are certain important checks that should be made prior to purchase, e.g. is it in a conservation area; if planning permission to build was once granted it is not necessarily renewed or updated; are there restrictions on the size or height of any development; is there any proposed further development. Once you have ascertained that all relevant checks have been made and the land purchased, you will need to apply for a building permit (Licenças de Obras) from the Town Hall (Câmara municipal). To obtain this permit all relevant plans will have to be submitted and can take some months.
Whilst we here at Properties in Perfect Portugal will endeavour to give you as much information as possible regarding your purchase, through our local knowledge and contacts, we can put you in touch with a number of independent professionals, trades people, and local authorities, to give you added peace of mind and security in what you are getting for your investment.