Part 1: Physical Structure Inspection

Structural checks:

• Visible cracks in walls (hairline = monitor; wide = investigate structurally)
• Floor levelness and tile integrity
• Roof condition (flat roofs: check for drainage pooling)
• Staircase stability (especially in older builds)

Finishing quality:

• Electrical socket and switch quality
• Plumbing fixtures (check pressure on every tap)
• Door and window frame alignment (warping indicates settlement issues)
• Ceiling condition (water stains = plumbing or roof failure above)

Part 2: Infrastructure and Utilities

• Power: Confirm estate generator capacity and monthly service charge. What is the average daily grid supply (NEPA/PHCN hours)?
• Water: Borehole or municipal? Confirm pump system and tank capacity.
• Drainage: Walk the perimeter. Flood-prone properties in Lagos are a documented risk in certain low-lying corridors.
• Road access: Condition of access roads to the estate — both main road and final approach.
• Security: Confirm gate management, CCTV, patrol schedule, and emergency response procedure.

Part 3: Legal and Title Verification (Pre-Inspection)

Complete this before the physical inspection — it determines whether you should inspect at all:

• Title document obtained and type confirmed (C of O preferred)
• Land Registry search initiated with solicitor
• Survey plan obtained and cross-referenced with physical property boundaries
• Developer CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) registration confirmed
• No court order or encumbrance on file

Part 4: Remote Inspection Protocol (For Diaspora Buyers)

1. Appoint an independent local agent or surveyor — not the seller's agent — to conduct the inspection on your behalf
2. Request a live video walk-through via WhatsApp or Zoom — go room by room, including roof, generator room, and external boundaries
3. Request a written inspection report with timestamped photographs
4. Cross-check the neighbourhood using Google Maps satellite view for surrounding land use and drainage patterns
5. Speak directly with an existing resident of the estate — they will tell you things the marketing brochure will not

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