Frequently asked questions
It all began with a simple idea fueled by a deep passion. As a small local owned business, we pride ourselves on personal attention and dedication to every detail. Our approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything we do reflects our commitment to excellence.
What is the difference between Check My Property Reports and Lawyers checking the LIM report?
Whilst Lawyers check the LIM report and property file, they are reliant for all information to be included to show that the property has the necessary consents/permits. However, with Check My Property Ltd, we conduct a detailed review and a site visit when booking a comprehensive pre-purchase check, looking at the property as a whole and identifying other matters that would not show on the LIM report or the property file.
This is usually due to property owners 'flying under the radar' and Council were not notified of these works, therefore Lawyers wouldn't be able to review these works as they would not show on in Council information.
At Check My Property Ltd we have over a decade's worth of experience undertaking site visits looking specifically at non-compliant buildings and land use activities, therefore providing you with all the facts necessary.
What other uses do these reports have?
Our reports can be uploaded to your council property file, any future LIM report will include a comment stating there is a third-party report, which will be attached to any future LIM reports, additionally this will be provided on any future property file request. This will help when you're looking to sell your property in the future.
Additionally, include this report in conjunction with your builder's report to your bank, whilst this is not mandatory banks are increasingly requiring property reports as part of their lending, this is to protect themselves and to ensure the property is an insurable asset.
What is the difference between a builders' report and Check My Property Assessment?
A builder's report checks the overall physical condition of the dwelling/buildings, if there are any building code related issues, or if any repair and maintenance work are required.
Check My Property Ltd looks at the property as a whole to help answer the following questions
- where consents required before construction?
- Does the new works require a change of use?
- Are there setback intrusions
These are just a few matters we will be looking at, unfortunately these are the things that you could be left footing the bill for, these matters could cost thousands of dollars to rectify, this is why our assessments are crucial, we will also include options on how to remediate if you decide to go ahead with the purchase.
We are looking to buy a property with a big garage so we can run our business from home and save on rental overheads, are there any issues with this?
This may not be possible; Christchurch District Plan zones have specific rules around what type of home occupations are permitted.
Imagine purchasing a property, investing all your money only to find out that running your business isn't possible without gaining the necessary approvals first, additionally there are some home occupations that cannot be considered.
If you are buying specifically so you can run your business from home, be sure to add the type of business you own, and we will include this in your assessment if it is permitted, requires consent, or if it is a non-complying activity.
How long from enquiry to getting the assessment?
We aim for a 10 day turn around to get you the report, however, will be as soon as possible, to provide you with a quality assessment.
Additionally, the time frame is dependent on if the real estate agent already a LIM report and property file has ready to download, cutting wait times down.
However, we will need to liaise with the property agent to arrange a site visit should a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection be required.
We will keep you updated as we progress, so you are fully informed.
The property we are interested in has an unconsented residential unit onsite, now the government has updated granny flat legislation, does this mean its ok?
No, unfortunately this would not meet the granny flat requirements to qualify for the exemption. Therefore, this would still be considered non-compliant and could cost a substantial amount to get the appropriate consents if required.
Our assessments will outline the Granny flat exemption and why it doesn't meet the requirements, and additionally what would be required if you wanted to legalise the minor residential unit.
The property we want to purchase is currently owned by a builder, do we still need a report?
Yes, we most definitely still recommend using our services, even professionals in the construction industry can get things wrong, whilst they might understand exempt building works, they may not understand planning matters. You can never have too many assurances when purchasing a property.
I am looking to sell my property; would it be worthwhile getting a report before I engage with a real estate agent.
Absolutely, these reports are a great tool to have prior to selling your property, provide this report to your agent, or tidy up any loose ends to ensure that your property receives maximum profit, removing any doubt from purchasers and lawyers alike.
Beyond the ordinary
This is where our journey begins. Get to know our business and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and great service. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.