How to use the dining room inspection checklist

Bring this checklist with you when you are conducting property inspection walkthroughs during your property purchase journey. It’s intended to be a foundational list of areas to always check before you look at submitting an offer or hiring a professional property inspector.

Useful items to bring to an property inspection

• Measuring tape
  • Know what bed size you’re bringing into the room
• Phone charger to test if all the powerpoints work

Dining room checklist

Size and layout

• Measure the dining room to ensure it meets your space requirements and furniture placement needs: dining table and chairs
• Consider the dining room’s layout and how it fits into your overall living space

Walls and ceilings

• Look for any cracks, water stains, mold, or signs of damage on the walls and ceilings
• Check for signs of recent paint or repairs that could be hiding issues
• Some properties during inspections may try and hide damages or any signs of defects using furniture, hanging painting on the wall or cover up the entire wall with wallpaper
• In older homes, minor cracks in the ceiling due to settling may be common. However, pay attention to any cracks that appear to be widening or extending, as they may indicate ongoing structural issues.

Flooring

• Examine the condition of the flooring (e.g. timber, carpet, tile) for any signs of damage, stains, or wear and tear
• If tile, check the condition of the grout and whether you need to think about resealing or replacing
• Look for uneven or squeaky floorboards that may need replacing

Windows and doors

• Ensure windows and doors open and close smoothly and fully. Windows and doors that don’t close properly will reduce the energy efficiency of your home
• Check for any drafts or air leaks around windows and doors, which could affect energy efficiency

Electrical and outlets

• Test all light fixtures and switches to ensure they work correctly
• Check for any exposed wiring or electrical issues
• Test all electrical outlets to ensure they are functional. Bring along a phone charger would be easiest to plug in and out quickly
• Count if there sufficient amount of powerpoint outlets for the dining room
• Look for any exposed wiring or outdated electrical systems

Heating and cooling

• Test the heating and cooling systems in the dining room, such as radiators, vents, or air conditioning units
• Think about the temperature of the room and whether you need to have a fan or aircon
• Check for any unusual noises or odors from these systems

Ventilation

• Ensure there is proper ventilation in the dining room, usually through vents or windows.
• Check for signs of mold or mildew, which could indicate poor ventilation

Built-In features

• If the dining room has built-in shelving, cabinets, or a fireplace, inspect these elements for structural integrity and condition.

Access and flow

• Evaluate how easy it is to access the dining room from other parts of the house, including the kitchen and living room areas
• Check if the dining room’s location aligns with your lifestyle and entertaining needs

Overall condition

• Take note of the general cleanliness and overall condition of the dining room
• Look for any signs of neglect or deferred maintenance

Checklists for inspection walkthroughs by room