5 Reasons: An NRI must Opt for a 360-degree Property Care Service

NRI investment in India’s real estate property market has risen over the last three years. Post implementation of the Real Estate Act (RERA) in 2016, things are finally looking up. Now, there is regained price stability in the residential property market. Further, backed by lucrative rentals and somewhat flexible lending policies, investments are again back on the track. However, if you already own a property in India, you would know that managing the property while living in a different part of the world / city is not an easy task!

Until recently, NRI homeowners would entrust the duty of managing their properties in India with traditional brokers. The brokers with little knowledge about homecare would only repair or repaint a house when the homeowners’ return date was near. They never bothered to look beyond the superficial damages of the house. As a result, the condition of the property would deteriorate forcing homeowners to make a hurried comeback to sell it off. Mounting legal issues related to tenancy and other outside factors would also wait for them whenever they made a homecoming plan.

Nowadays, there is a shift in practice. NRIs are now seeking the expertise of professional homecare management companies to take complete care of their properties. They are now realizing that homecare is not just about supervising and superficially repairing the damages in a building. It includes a whole set of services that allow the inmates of the house to live safely in it. Home and property care, in a true sense, can be the key to achieving a better quality of life in terms of safety, security and health.

Here are five good reasons why as an NRI you too must opt for a complete property management solution for your India home instead of engaging a broker or a liaison:

1. Onsite, dedicated property management

Owning a property and taking good care of it are two different stories. There are a thousand hassles to deal with on a day-to-day basis. You have plumbing problems to solve, broken roof and leaky ceilings to repair, flaky walls to re-plaster, weeds to remove from the terrace and adjoining areas, rent to collect from the tenants, taxes to pay on time, and so on! It is impossible for you to do all that while living in a different country altogether.

Gone are the times when you could entrust the duties on a friend or a relative. That person would visit your house at regular intervals and do the chores for you. Today, everyone is busy and it is not possible for anyone to take care of someone else’s property in a dedicated manner. Also, you cannot bank on that person’s knowledge level of property care.

For instance, you cannot expect him to know that a mouldy, wet patch on a wall is due to a deeper and more serious problem like damp. There can be leakage/seepage inside the fabric of the building which may need an urgent waterproofing. But since it cannot be diagnosed from outside, it remains largely unresolved. Every year, during monsoon, the situation keeps worsening leading to huge financial loss at a later stage.

Engaging a property / home inspection company can address such a gross lack of care. They send their team of experts to our house. The experts conduct in-depth damp/seepage assessment periodically, using advanced technologies like thermal imaging and share detailed reports and images with you via email. Based on their assessment and suggestions, you can get the required repairing and waterproofing done in a timely manner.

The inspection can cover all the elements of your house including the wall, ceiling, floor, doors, windows, plumbing, electrical, etc. Besides, you can also highlight concerns on any specific issue regarding the property and the home inspectors will pay attention to it.

2. Prompt handling of tenancy and encroachment problems

Leaving a property vacant and unattended for long can give rise to several problems. Some damages can go unnoticed for days, valuable items can go missing, and fines may be levied on your bills due to the delayed payment. In worst cases, squatters may move in pretending to be your tenants or new owners! To save your property from any such damage and miscreants it is better to rent it out to people matching your criteria.

By hiring a property management company, you can easily get in touch with interested parties matching your criteria. The company advertises your property, helps you to shortlist tenants, and also provides you with drafting assistance for standard rent agreement. Once rented out, the company collects the rent on your behalf and manages renewals from time to time.

However, if you want to keep your house vacant but secured from encroachment, you can also opt for fencing or any other safety measure. The property management service provider makes the necessary arrangements.

3. Buying/ selling/ advertising assistance for your property

One of the recent The Hindu BusinessLine report noted, “They (NRIs) are not coming home as much as buying homes.”

NRI investment in India’s real estate sector stands around 30-35 per cent of the total NRI remittances. According to a World Bank report, the country received US$80 billion in remittances in 2018, out of which nearly US$13 billion worth of investments were in the real estate sector.

So, it totally makes sense of you to be in the big league of NRI real estate market investors. But, are you aware of the nitty-gritty of buying a property in India? Or, if you are wearing the hat of a seller, do you know how to go about selling a property as an NRI?

Buying or selling properties requires a huge amount of research and paperwork. It is impossible for you to manage everything from abroad. If you hire a home / property care management service it provides you with a 360-degree solution for your property buying / selling needs.

4. Supervision during construction is critical

While buying an under-construction property it always helps if you are able to visit the site in person. But if you are an NRI you cannot do that. In that case, the property management companies fill the gap.

The property managers get down to guiding you from the very start of the building construction. They visit the site and keep updating you about the progress at each phase. They also send you photos and video clips for your ready reference from time to time. They constantly coordinate with the developer for any ongoing rectification and take proactive participation in property financing and legal matters and any kind of documentation.

Additionally, some renowned property care management brands such as MACJ also provide you with references of interior decorators and other vendors. You can check them and plan your next steps conveniently.

5. Ensuring if your property is ready for moving in

Trust deficit with builders is a big issue in case of NRI property investors. If you are not knowledgeable enough about construction, chances are that you will be cheated by your builder before the handover and you will not know! You will only start to discover the faults once you have moved in and that will add to your cost and frustration. To avoid that, it is important that you get your property thoroughly checked by a team of professionals.

The property inspection company inspects the completed property, reports any visual defect to the developer as well as to you and gets it repaired before handover. After that, you can safely move in to enjoy a peaceful stay at your new home.

Owning a property in your home country is a great thing. The property not only serves as a good source of income by grossing decent returns but also gives you a sense of security for the later years of life. However, if you cannot manage it properly, you end up losing more than you gain. So, catch up with the changing trends. Do not let time and ill-maintenance erode your asset’s value. Go, opt for a complete property care management solution and enjoy a stress-free homecoming every year.

For details you can also refer to www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/complete-property-care-for-nris-cccs

8 Safety measures you need to take in your Homes

Be Safe Be Alert

1. Buy (deadbolt and chain) Locks

For added safety, consider installing a deadbolt and chain lock if your door doesn’t already have them. A deadbolt is more secure and difficult to pick than a standard doorknob lock, because the deadbolt only opens by rotating the lock cylinder, whereas a spring bolt lock can be withdrawn by applying force to the bolt itself. Additionally, a chain lock provides an extra layer of security when opening your door, allowing you to open your door to an extent only to talk to a stranger or ask for identification, before opening up completely.

2. Lighting in the apartment

An apartment with lots of lights is rarely at risk. One can have an entryway and the sideways flooded with lights which will make it easier for anyone to recognise strangers.

3. Buy Good Blinds / Curtains

This will prevent robbers from looking inside your home and being tempted by all the valuables they see. Install blinds / curtains that completely block the view from outside, and make sure to close them when you go out. That way, you’ll keep the wandering eyes from scanning your valuables and reduce your risk of break-ins.

4. Use a Safe

A safe can be a last line of defense to protect your most valuable possessions. Items such as jewelry, cash and sensitive documents can be locked away in a fireproof case. Find a safe that fits your budget and needs, and talk to your carpenter about bolting it to a floor or wall, so a burglar can’t pick it up and take it.

5. Install a Security System

CCTV cameras have become a must nowadays. Have them installed in strategic positions which will cover the key areas of your home. And needless to say install the app in your phone also. In that way you can keep an eye even in your absence. Work to make sure your residence is secure, and take personal steps to keep it that way.

6. Keep a written schedule or reminders of events

If you’re expecting a package through a company jot down the estimated date of arrival. Schedule all appointments, such as cable / internet company, electric, equipment servicing or other necessary needs at a specific date and time. Be sure that you get identification prior to allowing them in, even if it’s having them slide a badge under the door if there isn’t a peephole available.

7. Be careful on how and whom you notify when leaving your apartment

Never, under any circumstances, leave short notes on your doors for others that reside with you. You will never know who is around while you’re gone. Always give the intended party a short call or text message letting them know your whereabouts, even if it’s a short trip to the store. Always contact nearby family and friends when planning on leaving for a longer time duration.

8. Neighbors make a huge difference in the quality of life

We should have some amount of rapport with our neighbours and other residents. It’ll give us a sense of security of knowing those living around us. Offer a hand to your elderly neighbors, such as carrying groceries from their car. Living in a complex may gives us a chance to befriend each other and create a healthy bond. By this, we can be of help to each other. Treat their packages left outside like your own and leave it by their doorstep instead of ignoring it as you pass by.

Throughout the year, the facility manager or the person in charge is required to check the maintenance of the overall building and your own apartment, such as proper lighting, smoke detectors, and apartment inspections. Usually a note to all residents will be posted somewhere near the main entrance or mailboxes prior to the intended date. They may also need a secondary person to assist with assignments, so thoroughly read any notices to be aware of the situation.

What is Waterproofing? | A Raincoat for your Home

Water infiltration into a home / building causes major problems to the structure. Water damages a building first cosmetically then structurally, results in building failure and most importantly the health of the residents. It is important to realize that by the time a stain shows up on the interior of your wall most likely irreversible damage is already caused to the exterior.

Before we get into the technicalities, allow us to explain you one simple thing. We wear a raincoat to protect ourselves from rain or water from wetting or drenching us, right? Waterproofing is the raincoat for a house.

Waterproofing is a system which prevents water (damp / water leakage / seepage / moisture) from penetrating into your house. As a raincoat keeps us dry, waterproofing / damp proofing is very important to keep our homes dry. It helps to reduce humidity inside the house and thereby protects things inside your house from damage caused due to humidity or water exposure. Waterproofing preserves the strength and the durability of concrete surfaces in a building.

Why is Waterproofing / Damp proof course (DPC) necessary?

Waterproofing increases your home’s value. It is one of the most critical, yet neglected concerns. Most of the time it is considered an inconvenience rather than a serious matter. Avoiding it will increase the problem & leave your wall damped.

1. Protects the Interiors from Water Damage

The inner part of your home is usually exposed to many unpredictable weather elements like sun rays and rains. This includes walls, floors, ceilings, etc. How much ever you try to get your walls sealed by using steel, concrete, etc., during the construction, they do crack and get rusted.

Water leakage / seepage or more categorically moisture intrusion in buildings results into damp, uncomfortable internal environments; deterioration of internal finishes (including mould growth); unsightly damp areas on wall and ceiling surfaces and increased concentrations of harmful pollutants affecting occupant’s health. The exclusion of moisture from buildings is therefore not only desirable, but an utmost concern to the residents of the buildings.

Waterproofing or damp proofing in buildings makes the structure water-resistant and helps in formation of a solid barrier over surfaces of foundations, roofs, walls and other structural members of building to prevent water penetrations through these surfaces. It helps in reducing the humidity inside the building, minimizing the damage done to structure, furniture, human health and alike.

2. Prevents Onset of Health Problems

Damp is a Silent Killer. Moisture and Humidity are the uninvited as well as unwanted guests which cause significant damage to your home and the ones living in it. When moisture finds its way to enter your walls and ceilings, it leads to the growth of mold and mildew. This creates spores, which leads to many health problems. Spores get projected into the air, and when you breathe in, they will straight away travel to your lungs that can cause health problems. Common health hazards include Upper respiratory (nasal and throat) symptoms, Asthma symptoms in sensitized persons with Asthma, Cough, Wheeze, Allergies, Skin Diseases, etc. It is always preferable to have waterproofing done to your home at the right time (usually at the time of construction / renovation / interior design), to keep you and your family away from such unexpected health problems.

3. Saves Your Money

Waterproofing your home might seem like a daunting task & a blow to your budget. But, prevention is always better than cure. It is best to think of it as a long term investment that will reap benefits in the building’s lifetime.

Few other Reasons why waterproofing is required for homeowners / property owners:

  • Prevents Frequent Leakages
  • Enhances the Durability of the Structure
  • Prevents hassles of repetitive Repairs
  • Minimizes Reoccurring Repairs & Maintenance Expenses
  • Puts an end to damaging of interiors
  • Avoids serious health issues arising out of dampness

Where should Waterproofing be done in a building?

Some homes include only basic waterproofing, which at times is only restricted to roofs, but it is imperative to have proper waterproofing done at all the water entry areas to make the home leak-free home.The home will be protected adequately only when all the possible water entry areas are waterproofed. The five key surfaces that are crucial for waterproofing are:

  1. Roof / Terrace
  2. Exterior Walls
  3. Internal Wet Areas (bathroom, kitchens, balconies)
  4. Concrete Water Tanks
  5. Structural components(Below and around ground structures)

Waterproofing Solutions & Materials

Water barrier of external walls is normally achieved by providing desired wall thickness, adequate designing at construction joints and surface rendering and finishes which serve as barrier against water seepage / moisture intrusion. But normally no attention is paid towards critical areas like separation gaps, honeycomb areas, damp proof courses and so on. This results in significant leakages through external walls and damages to expensive internal structure, furniture & equipment.

The leading waterproofing contractors / service providers / materials manufacturers in India include Dr Fixit, Fosroc, Dura, MasterSeal, Krytonite, BASF, Newcoat, Proofex, Sika, CICO Technologies, etc. There are some paint companies like Asian Paints, Berger Paints, Nerolac Paints, etc which also provide waterproofing solutions.

Conclusion

Water enters the building and can have immediate and long term undesired effects. Apart from damage to the building contents, structural damage is unavoidable if the problem persists. Further this can have serious adverse effect to human health.

The goal of building waterproofing is to prevent as much water as possible from penetrating into the house, and to provide outlets and drainage so that if water does get inside, it is not allowed to remain. Many designers while designing simply forget that there is going to be water.

”Sukanta Mallik, VP – R&D, CICO Technologies Ltd, says, “We do not suffer any lack of advanced system or materials, but mainly waterproofing problems plague us due to increasing complexity of construction, blatant disregard to most of the waterproofing principles, and also, inability to co-ordinate interfacing between the multitudes of construction systems involved in a single building.”

If you are still not convinced and you are a huge admirer of Mr. Amitabh Bachchan then kindly watch…… www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-2rKW1gRCQ

For more information on the subject and long term solutions, please also read our blog…… www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/damp-seepage-assessment-with-solutions-through-thermal-imaging-technology

9 Steps to Make Your Home Monsoon Ready

If summer comes, can monsoon be far behind! Every year by the end of June, monsoon arrives in major parts of the Indian subcontinent ushering in a prolonged spell of light to heavy rainfall. There is a visible change in life everywhere. Nature’s palette all of a sudden gets filled with diverse shades of green. But beauty and relief aren’t all that the season of showers brings along with it.

The rains turn out to be quite an ordeal for our beloved homes. Hidden crevices and leakage in the home infrastructure lead to damp and seepage problems, and if a home is already suffering from one of such problems, during heavy rainfall, it tends to get intensified. Result? – Damage at multiple levels.

Damp, seepage or leakage has a toxic effect on the health of a house. There are watery patches and black mildew spots on the exterior or interior walls, plaster and wallpaper start peeling off, tiles on the bathroom and kitchen walls seem to bulge out, and in worst conditions, ceilings become leaky and water starts dripping down the walls!

Damp poses serious health threats to the inmates of the house. The high moisture content leads to the growth of microbes such as fungus, mould and algae turning home into a hub of diseases. Allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, asthma, skin and sinus infections become a regular concern. To add to the plight of all, a typical odour of dampness fills the air triggering discomfort and claustrophobia.

To avoid such torment every year you need to be a little alert. Even before the first shower of the season wets the earth you must make your homes monsoon ready. Here’s how you should go about it:

1. Examine the house visually

Take a closer look at your home. Do you see any crack or damaged tile on the ceilings or the walls? Is there a leaking pipe in your kitchen or bathroom? Get it repaired immediately or else, the monsoon rains will worsen things further. Damp spots are obvious if there is seepage on the wall. But then, these are signs of deeper problems which call for expert intervention.

Find the underlying cause of water seepage

Water seepage is a common problem in regions receiving high monsoon rainfall. Studies show within five years of construction completion, water starts seeping through the external walls of a building. The main reason in most of the cases is poor construction practices. The findings of a survey conducted on about 10,000 households in Mumbai revealed the use of single layer of brick walls. As a result, cracks develop on them easily resulting in water ingress.

Other reasons for water seepage are:

  • Water absorption and permeability of the wall materials
  • Faulty control joints and expansion joints
  • Penetrating moisture
  • Capillary action-led rising dampness
  • Developing honeycomb structures in plaster or concrete
  • Inadequate separation gaps

All these issues can be addressed through visual inspection, waterproofing & crack bridging of walls.

2. Clear blockages in the drainage system

Make sure there is no blockage in the drainage pipes of the buildings to avoid overflows and water-logging. Standing water in the roof, especially, can be a real headache if not cleaned in time. The water tends to seep through the ceilings and walls before finally making its way through cracks not visible to the naked eyes. Soon, ugly water spots begin to show up and the ceilings and walls start flaking and sprouting moulds. To solve the problem you may opt for roof waterproofing but before that, get a thorough inspection done for a long-term solution.

3. Service your big home appliances

Before the onset of the monsoon, get all your big home appliances serviced. Check your air conditioner for any possible leakage, both in the indoor as well as the outdoor unit. Defrost the freezer and drain the water if required. And finally, make sure your washing machine spinner/drier is working in its optimal condition so that even if you have to dry your clothes indoors when it is raining, you don’t end up increasing moisture content of your home. Servicing your home appliances will also reduce the possibility of bigger problems like electrocution.

4. Ventilate your home properly

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining a damp-free, healthy environment at home. Keep your windows open when you are not using the AC and let the fresh air and natural light come in. Sunlight kills mould spores and fungus and helps to reduce in-house moisture content. You may wonder why bother about the moisture condition of your home? Well, moisture is the invisible culprit that disturbs the functioning of your building system rendering it weak, over the years. It is important that you learn to identify the common symptoms of the moisture problem and save your home and family from long-term damages.

5. Get rid of pests and insects

Ventilating will address pest issues of your home only partially; to get rid of them completely, go for a pest control drive. Make all the possible passages, corners, outlets, and cracks of your house pest-free. This will not only help reduce the chances of allergy and infection in monsoon but will also stop cracks from widening further.

6. Keep your surroundings clean

As you ensure your home ventilation, do not forget to check the surrounding area too. See if any tree branch is leaning on your terrace. Cut or trim it before it gives way during a heavy downpour damaging your walls. Also, check if any loose electrical overhead line is hanging near to your building. Alert the civic authority of your area and get it fixed to avoid major electrical accidents.

7. Other nitty-gritty of a clean home interior

Wooden doors tend to swell with moisture in a damp house. During monsoon, the problem increases. So, get them fixed by your carpenter properly while also putting a fresh polish on them to minimize water absorption. In the case of metal-framed doors and windows, it is advisable to go in for a repaint to avoid rusting and seepage of rainwater through them. Get your windows sealed with a good sealant.

Furniture is another crucial part of home decor. Clean them regularly with dry clothes to keep them dirt and fungus-free.

8. Get moisture / damp intrusion of your home assessed for long-term solutions

No matter how vigilant you are about your home, you cannot vouch for its complete monsoon-readiness. There is always more than what your eyes can see. So, it is better to seek an expert’s help and get things assessed properly by a Home Inspection Company.

Deeper causes behind moisture, damp, seepage and leakage:

  1. Condensation – happens when a property is unable to deal with the normal level of moisture inside it. It happens due to lack of insulation, poor ventilation, or a combination of both things.
  2. Rising damp – happens when the water vapour tends to rise from below the ground level to a height of about one metre of the building.
  3. Penetrating damp – happens when rainwater or water from an external leakage enters into the envelope of a building.
  4. Construction damp:
    1. Plumbing failure
    2. Concealed leaks i.e. leaks in AC gas pipe, drain pipe etc.
    3. Humidity on toilet tanks, HVAC systems, water pipes, and other mechanical objects

It is impossible for a person who is not an expert in construction and engineering to speculate the above problems in an apparently healthy home. Only someone equipped with an advanced solution like thermal imaging technology can detect the problem by going to the core of it.

9. Do consider a thorough electrical inspection

Everyone knows water and electricity make a dangerous combination. If your home is damp and there is a hidden problem in your building’s electricity line, monsoon will bring you serious headaches. Your home will be vulnerable to minor to major electrical accidents. To avoid any such mishap it is important to get your entire home electrical system inspected so that even the smallest of problems are detected and you are able to repair it in time.

In India, data shows that the majority of household fires are caused due to electrical short circuits. Though there is a regulatory framework in place the awareness against electrical fire safety is lacking big time.

We all know that prevention is better than cure. So, do not leave your home’s safety at the mercy of the Rain God. Get a timely damp/seepage inspection of your home done along with a detailed assessment of the electrical system. Then as per the reports, repair and refurbish the damaged parts, and be ready to welcome the monsoon!

Reference

www.nbmcw.com/product/waterproofing-repair/28659-waterproofing-external-walls-of-buildings.html

www.ieema.org/electrical-fire-safety-be-smart-be-safe

‘Secret 7’ ways to save energy at home

Want to spend less and save more? Here are the ‘Secret 7’ ways to do so.

Energy conservation is important and very beneficial. The two major motives for conserving energy are to save on utility bills and protect the environment all through simple energy-saving measures. By simply taking few small steps towards living a more energy-conscious lifestyle, you can begin to enjoy all of the perks of being energy efficient. There are many different ways to reduce your household’s energy use, ranging from simple behavioral adjustments to extensive home improvements. Here are seven common ways to conserve energy and save electricity in your home.

1. Replace Glowing lights

The average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Traditional incandescent lights convert approximately only 10% of the energy they consume into light, while the rest 90% becomes heat. Turn off incandescent / shining lights when you are not in the room.

2. Adjust your day-to-day behaviors

To reduce energy consumption in your home, you do not necessarily need to go out and purchase energy efficient products always. Energy conservation can be as simple as turning off lights or appliances when you do not need them. The behavioral adjustments that have the highest potential for utility savings are using your air conditioners (AC) in a limited manner in the summer.

What is the best way to run AC?? It is always better to run AC at 25+ degrees and put the fan on at slow speed.

This will cost less electricity and your body temperature will also be in the range and there will be no ill effect on your health. Another advantage of this is that the AC will consume less electricity, the blood pressure on the brain will also decrease and Saving will ultimately help reduce the effects of global warming. How?? Suppose you save about 5 units per AC per night by running AC on 26 Degree and other 10 lakh houses also do like you then we save 5 million units of electricity per day. At the regional level this savings can be crores of units per day. Please consider the above and do not run your AC at all below 25 degrees. Keep your body and environment healthy.

3. Weatherize your home

Weatherizing or sealing air leaks around your home, is a great way to reduce your heating and cooling expenses. The most common sources of air leaks into your home are vents, windows, and doors. To prevent these leaks, you should ensure that there are no cracks or openings between the wall and vent, window, or doorframe.

4. Older appliances are often less energy efficient

Electricity rates are increasing every year. The appliances of today are much more efficient than their predecessors as they have made energy-saving leaps over the years. Replace the old ones with energy efficient products.

5. Take shorter showers

Ahem! Please do not get angry on me for saying this but I am just helping you to save energy. I know it really feels relaxing, rejuvenating and soothing taking a long shower. But did you know that a typical shower head spits out an approx average of 2.5 gallons per minute. Reducing your shower time by 4 minutes per day may save 3650 gallons annually if you shower once a day. So just make your shower time shorter.

6. Let your Computer/Laptops hibernate

You knew that frogs and other amphibians are the only ones who can hibernate? Well think again. You can set your Computer/Laptops to Hibernate also. It is a power-saving state designed for Computer/Laptops. Hibernation puts your open documents and programs on your hard disk and then turns off your computer. Of all the power-saving states in Windows, hibernation uses the least amount of power. Put your computer to hibernate mode instead of using a screen saver so it uses less electricity during periods of inactivity. And the best part is Hibernation of your computer can reduce your electric bill too.

7. Unplug battery chargers

Once charging of your device is complete, unplug the charger from the device and electrical outlet when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use. Many chargers draw power continuously, even when the device is not plugged into the charger. As Cambridge professor David MacKay points out, that half a watt equates to saving one hot bath’s worth of energy every year if you unplug your charger when it’s not in use. You have heard it from the best so you know what to do now.

Since the ‘Sultry Summer’ has already arrived, it’s the best time to use our ‘Secret 7’ ways in to use.

Home Electricals System – Some Basic Questions Answered

As a home owner, one should know the basic parameters of the electrical system of the home one lives in.

Electrical system is a huge system divided into generation, transmission and distribution system, all the parts being taken care off by respective departments. The wiring inside a house can be a complicated matter for the owner but some basic things are easy to be kept in mind by the owner. Firstly in a home the standard voltage is 220V.

Here are answers to some of the basic home electrical system questions:

Q-1. Should a home have a DB and what are the components inside the DB?

Ans. Every home must have a DB. A DB stands for Distribution Box. DB is a component of an electricity supply system that divides electrical power and feeds into subsidiary circuits, with protective circuit breaker for each circuit in a common enclosure. One must ensure that each DB is with MCB for each circuit and also RCCB is installed. Once you are assured that DB with accessories are present then get it inspected for proper amperage, operation, safety and even load distribution.

Q-2.Why RCCB is a must?

Ans. RCCB stands for Residual Current Circuit Breaker which has been designed to protect a circuit from leakage fault. RCCB is a must because it provides protection even from a small leakage current generated by human touch or insulation failure of wire. MCB does not provide this level of protection. So the home owner / seller / buyer must ensure that RCCB has been installed at the home.

Q-3. What is electrical wire colour code and why is it important?

Ans. One must have got confused at some time on the sight of different colour wires in electrical wiring. Questions arise for the different colours of wires such as why different colours and why not same colour? For your information the wire colours used, are based on the Electrical colour code for wires which defers from country to country. In India for a single phase (220V) electrical wiring, the code followed is RGB i.e. Red colour wire for Phase, Green colour wire for earthing and Black colour wire for neutral connection. In case of three phase, two more colours are followed – Blue and Yellow, in which case, Red, Blue and Yellow coloured wired are used for phase connection, Green for Earthing and Black for neutral. So now you know which colour wire stands for phase, neutral and earthing in your wiring system.

Q-4. Earthing connection provided at which of the three-pin socket points?

Ans. The first thing that comes to mind is that at which terminal / hole in a 3 pin socket is the earthing terminal? Generally Earthing terminals are of a higher diameter. Hence checks to be done for earthing connection, which is a must as it protects against the leakage current causing shocks.

NRIs and their Long Distance Relationship / Phir bhi dil hain Hindustani

Being away from your hometown (NRI / CCC) is tough. To fulfil the foreign country’s dream, one has to overcome many hurdles. From food habits to language problem, from culture issues to finding a place to stay and most importantly homesickness, staying away from your family and friends and your home sweet home. But there is one thing that never leaves your mind; nagging fear about your home especially if it is kept away from you under lock and key. Being an NRI, your home is back in India and you are very familiar with that almost constant worry of its welfare lurking at the back of your mind. Added to that worry is also a lingering sense of guilt, for having left home.

Your worry increases particularly if you don’t have siblings or relations to take care even in emergency situations. The call from Home makes you alert and cautious if not always but sometimes fearing the unknown. So this long distance relationship with the beloved ones at home and with home itself is a very emotional draining experience.

If you have elderly parents back home, you will be only too aware of their sense of health, safety and security issues. There can be another scenario wherein your home is left alone and no one is there to take care of it. Your home withstands a lot of issues like seasonal changes, general wear & tear and low or no maintenance.

Introducing a service for managing your biggest investment when you are away from it – your property / home.

Well, worry no more. It is precisely for this reason that MACJ – A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections in collaboration with A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections (ABCHI), a leading American home inspection company was founded in India.

Who are we? We are your home doctors.

Basically we are India’s pioneering professional Home Inspection company providing non-invasive, visual examination of all accessible areas (systems & components) of a property using modern technology and specialized tools uses normal operating controls, is designed to describe the condition of the systems and components, identifies and reports issues within specific systems and components, reports issues (with relevant pictures) that are both observed and deemed critical by the inspector, generates software driven home inspection reports.

Our Services include:

  • Complete Home / Property Inspection
  • Damp / Seepage Assessment with Solutions through Thermal Imaging Technology
  • Electrical Inspections of a Home / Property
  • Construction Finishing Inspection for Real Estate Developers
  • Complete Property Care and Management Services

Complete Property Care and Management Services – For NRIs / CCCs

These services have been especially put together for our NRI friends keeping in mind solely the different types of issues that they might face while they are far away from their dwelling.  These services include:

  • Home Inspection to map your property condition and providing a complete docket of your property.
  • Other related services for upkeep and maintenance of your property including:
    • Construction Supervision / Updates
    • Pre-handover Inspection
    • Property handover and Key Collection Inspections
    • Tenant Management Inspections
    • Periodical Inspection
    • Property Monitoring & Management
    • Other related assistance

So now do not take stress, and leave the rest to us. Your property care is our assurance. We not only assure, but we will keep you informed in every step. Our honest, ethical, transparent services will heal all your headaches, worries and tension.

For more information on Complete Property Care and Management Services, please go through www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/complete-property-care-for-nris-cccs

So What exactly is Home Inspection?

It sure is a billion dollar question. But first let me tell you what IT IS NOT. It is not an Income Tax or Sales Tax inspection neither a Police Inspection nor a Property/ Land Dispute Inspection.

We go for health check up of our bodies, right? Wherein the doctor does a complete check up of our body, whether all our systems are working properly or not, the organs are in good shape or not and prescribes medicines if required.

In the same way, Home Inspection simply means the Health Check Up of your Home or Property. Here the elements include the wall, ceiling, floor, door, window, plumbing and electrical, etc

By the end of this read, I expect the readers to know Home Inspection like the back of their hands.

Always remember the four keywords to understand Home Inspection Coverage:

Areas | Elements | Coverage | 3D of Issues

Areas – The areas in your home or apartment will include Bedrooms, Bathrooms, Living and dining, Kitchens, Balcony (the number will vary accordingly) etc.

Elements – The 7 basic elements comprises of wall, ceiling, floor, door, window, plumbing and electrical. There may be more elements like a bathroom will additionally have shower, sink, faucet, counters, cabinets, etc.

Coverage – Material types, Installation & Finishing, Operations & Functionality and General safety.

3D of Issues – Detect, Describe and Direct. We detect the issues, describe the outcome if you don’t take care of the issue and direct the solutions – what needs to be done to correct/rectify the issue.

Home Inspection – Health & safety checkup of homes

  • So, a home inspection is a third party professional service, provided by certified trained home inspectors who determine the present condition of the home’s major systems, based on a rigorous visual assessment of a home.
  • It focuses on the real time performance of the home, rather than cosmetic or code issues.
  • The result of the Home Inspection is substantiated with a system generated Inspection Report which lays down the issues that are detected during inspection along with relevant real time images for easy understanding of the clients & to suggest any improvements or repairs deemed necessary to bring the home up to the proper standards.
  • In a home inspection you don’t seek to find what’s wrong with the house, but what’s actually necessary to be repaired for a long & healthy life of your dream home.
  • The health report card of the home/property also has pocket friendly solutions to it.
  • For details Read through…… www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/home-inspection-area/why-home-inspection

Components of a Home Inspection

The Home Inspector – A home inspector is more than someone that has some construction knowledge or experience. A home inspector is a problem solver and will need to understand the subtle signs of component failures and have the ability to direct the client to the solutions. Home Inspectors must be expert communicators also. The presentation is important both verbally and in writing. And have no doubt that he/she may be an employee of a company but his/her prime motto is the well being of your home.

State of the Art Tools & Technology – The Home Inspector is armed with the latest tools & technologies to detect issues, even the hidden ones.

The Inspection Process – The inspection team typically consists of home inspector, electrician & a plumber. The process involves a non-invasive, visual examination of all accessible areas and its respective elements along with any add-on components.

Software driven Report – Software driven reports are generated within 24 hours of the inspection process is completed and submitted to the clients which explains the issues along with relevant real time pictures and its relevant solutions.

About the Industry

In the western Countries – Home Inspection is still an emerging concept in India. But it is very prevalent in US, Canada and other western countries. Over there it’s a multibillion dollar thriving industry (www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/thriving-american-market).

In India – A Brand New concept launched for the First Time by about 8 – 10 mavericks simultaneously starting the home inspection services across various Indian cities under their respective brands, couple of years back (www.macj-abuyerschoice.com/welcome-to-the-sunshine-industry-professional-home-inspection-services)

So next time when you hear the word – Home Inspection, am pretty sure the frowns and question marks will disappear and a smile along with – Oh yes, I know it or have heard about it should come to your lips.

Know your homes better. Make it healthy, safe and sound for you and your loved ones living in it.

Please do explore our website www.macj-abuyerschoice.com for more related knowledge and information.

Protect your Home from Masked Hazards

Not every masked object will be as vigilante & handsome as Antonio Banderas as in the 1998 Hollywood film-The Mask of Zorro. Your home can also be the safe haven of one or many masked entities. Sometimes a masked entity can be a hotspot of future issues waiting to lift its dangerous head to strike at its suitable moment or pierce its false teeth into your Home Sweet Home. Basically the masked structures take refuge or take birth due to various reasons unknown to the inhabitants of the home. Also since they are masked, it is neither possible nor feasible for a common man to even get a bit of idea about it. Or may be it is possible…… let us see how…

Every house has seven basic elements – walls, ceiling, floor, doors, windows, plumbing and electrical. These elements can conceal issues which as mentioned earlier can become humongous or pose serious threat in the proper functioning and safety of your home.

Many a times when the symptoms come to the forefront, the damage is already done or it’s too late.
‘Enough of Hide and Seek… now it is time for you to confront them head on.’

Walls: Yeh deewar tootni nahi chahiye

1. Hairline Diagonal crack – Most of the diagonal cracks portray building settlement and defects in building design. Diagonal cracks originate as hairline cracks on wall surface, but with time it gradually increases in length and depth. These cracks if not treated at the right time will gradually increase in depth and effect the building stability.

2. Hollowness in plaster surface – Newly painted walls does not forecast the condition of plaster surface beneath. Hollowness on plaster surface portrays the loss of stability of the wall surface due to thermal changes, moisture intrusion and multiple developing cracks. If not rectified at right time, this will gradually lead to collapse of the plaster surface and affect the habitability of residents living inside.

3. Finishing of External Wall – If the external wall has paint finish with exterior grade paint : #1 – prior to adequate curing of external wall surface plaster, #2 – on hollow plaster surface, will lead to inadequate bonding between paint and plaster surfaces. In the long run due to climatic changes and weathering action, moisture intrusion will occur in the deteriorated plaster and paint surface and will seep inside house. (Read our blog: Moisture / Damp / Seepage – The Invisible Silent Killer: Unsuspecting Criminal – https://macj-abuyerschoice.com/real-estate/moisture-damp-seepage-invisible-silent-killer-unsuspecting-criminal/)

Ceiling: Ceiling should be sealed

A smoothly painted false ceiling can hide:

  1. Leak from roof or above floor for few months. After that some discoloration > popping of paint > peeling > Termite / insects > water droplet > collapse of false ceiling.
  2. An inadequately supported false ceiling; which will lead to sagging of false ceiling.

A painted ceiling over RCC can hide:

  1. Loose plaster / hollow plaster – which will start to peel off / collapse.
  2. Rusted reinforcement (which is the back bone of the building); building with Rusted reinforcement is structurally not stable.
  3. Hide leak from roof or above floor for few months. After that some discoloration will occur & eventually lead to damage.

Floor: Keep your feet firmly on the ground!

1. Hollowness – It causes damaging of flooring surface either tiled / marble/ CC. Causes are due to uneven preparation of underlayments. Under the impact of super imposed load like furnitures, it may get damaged. Refilling / Relaying / rectifying the hollowness is possible. But the rectifications are costly as marble finish will require epoxy base materials where as similar shaded tiles are required in case of tile work.

2. Uneven Tile – It is visible but usually granted as minor issue hence neglected. Causes are due to uneven laying of tiles and sometimes curvature at tile edges by manufacturer itself. Rectification can only be done by relaying similar shaded tiles for uniformity.

3. Slope of flooring at wet areas and atmospherically exposed areas – It is also not visible unless inspected properly. Causes are due to improper levelling of flooring and poor workmanship. Water stagnancy / pocket/ accumulation/ catchment are some defects which lead to seepage and major damages in longer duration.

Door: Lock kiya jaye?

1. Stability – It is the prime technical aspect of a door, which is a prime form of security for occupants. Spalling of plaster, rattling of frame, distinct gap at frame joints are some symptoms which are caused due to stability issue rather than resistance to sudden impact. Inadequate anchorage frame fastener/ clamps/bracings/base support which is concealed at frame and adjoined wall/floor surface are invisible to naked eyes, hence stability of frame cannot not be easily assessed in a new flats/ houses.

2. Rottening of frame bottom portion – It is caused due to lack of seasoning of solid wooden frame and also if not treated properly at concealed bands of jamb. In the long run it’s been observed that wet patches arise at bottom portions and paint deterioration at adjoined painted wall surface. It also impacts the stability as higher the moisture content at wood leads to decay and expansion of intermolecular spaces, it loses the grip with anchorage fasteners/ clamps.

3. Rattling of door panels after locking – It is caused due to poor workmanship in installing the panel rather hinges and can be checked by providing PVC groove casing at jamb groove position for latch bolts. In the long run, separation gap can be observed as continuous rattling can affect the stability of door frame and even cause bending of panel in worst cases.

Window: A window is a gateway to opportunities, but only for yourself! / Open the window to let the sun and breeze in, good for us.

1. External gap around window frame – It can cause severe intrusion of moisture / water from the gaps and deteriorate the window frame with adjoined wall components.

2. Choosing of glass panes and panels – Shattering of glass panes can cause accidents to occupants or pedestrians below. Variety of toughened glass is available in market to suit one’s need.

3. Safety approach – Window sill if below particular height, then additional grill or fixed panel to be provided to restrict tripping off. Mostly found in bathrooms and common areas. But needs to be taken care as it might get fatal.

4. Drip mould at chajja – It restricts the flushed water from vertical external wall surface from splashing inside the unit. This minor work is neglected and we often see that box window with no drip mould are prone to seepage / moisture intrusion.

Plumbing: Plumber wale Babu mera pipe thik kare dey

1. Concealed leakage – Plumbing lines are mostly concealed at wall or floor surface, invisible through bare eyes. It occurs due to poor workmanship during installation, poor joint packing compound/ material, lower grade pipes/ corrosive pipes, over lapping, wearing due to time lapse. It will show wet patches at painted wall surfaces portions around the wet area, rising dampness above skirting level of painted wall surface, stains at bathrooms wall finishing.

2. Grouting – Being the most integral pipe fitting component, it is important to provide non-shrinking, workable and high strength grouting component. The floor outlet position, wall insertions needs grouting else water infiltration will occur and travel along the floor bed mortar level and effect lower floor occupants by water percolation from ceiling, rising dampness at surrounding walls, dirt accumulation and flooring joint filling deterioration around.

Electrical: Be an Electrical Safety hero. Score an accident zero

  1. Loss of current – Generally wire passing is conveyed by conduits running concealed inside wall/ ceiling/ floor surfaces – Practically not visible with bare eyes. If any damage occurs at concealed wiring during home renovation or wire pulling, electric loss will occur and human conduction can even be fatal.

Your home should be filled with happiness in every nook and corner. Our sole motive is to keep your home hale and hearty and hence we want you to know what can be hidden behind every element. We do not want you to get distraught and get worried regarding one of the biggest investments that you have made or might make in your life. So it’s better you unmask the issues rather than waiting for the issues to unmask themselves. Be wise and get your home inspection done at the right time.

How a Realtor can Benefit from a Home Inspection

Here comes the Hot-stepper, not a Deal Breaker!

A home inspection is not only favorable for the buyers & sellers, but it is also quite beneficial for the Real Estate Agent too. Because a realtor is the person who represents the buyer or the seller, they can advocate for the client when they know details about the property. For an instance, a buyer’s agent can tactfully negotiate with the seller for a price revision. Similarly, a seller’s agent can guide the home buyer when he knows the details about the home inspection reports. At this point, the property broker can also help the seller in making an educated decision on the repairs and the selling price before listing the property for sale.

Property brokers may tend to think that Home Inspectors are simply fault finders and the brokers’ sale will fall through for them. However, there is a strong argument for why an ethical agent’s referral adds value to the buyer and benefits all involved. A seasoned real estate agent has years of experience and expertise in the local market and will save a buyer a lot of time, money and frustration by promoting and recommending the concept of Home Inspection.

Realtors’ Survey in USA

  • Eighty-four (84%) percent of buyers requested a home inspection as part of purchase contract.
  • Nearly all realtors (92%) recommend that the buyer get a home inspection.
  • Most Real Estate Agents (84%) have not had any sellers contracts terminated as a result of a home inspection.

Home Inspection adds to Real Estate Agents’ Brand & Credibility and in turn Business Growth

  • Home Inspection can greatly assist in the sales process by making a buyer feel more confident about the purchase. Realtors can discuss the pros and cons with home buyers when they know details about the inspection.
  • Enables real estate agent to make sellers understand the health condition / potential issues in their property.
  • Realtors can Make Recommendations for Repairs. In that way, a seller / buyer can plan to the repair or negotiate on the selling price as per the market status.
  • Builds credibility, makes agents look more professional, and promotes referrals.
  • Increased Referrals From Satisfied Customers – Increased Business

Benefits of Pre – Listing Home Inspection by Property Brokers

Serving the Client
In an ideal situation, the buyers should rely on the experience of their agents for matters as important as Home Inspection. Infact agent referral should actually add value to the buyer. Real estate agents should look at the bigger picture and the bigger picture is caring most about the client’s satisfaction. It’s a question of serving the clients and building strong relationships. For the ones who truly understand the scenario, building strong relationships and good client service is a way to help all involved. It provides the home inspector with business, helps home buyers by providing them access to a dependable home inspector and provides the real estate agents with a solid reputation and peace of mind.

Protecting your Interests
The admonishment of “buyer beware” is especially relevant when it comes to buying a home. Real estate agents and buyers depend on the seller and the listing agent to provide the initial information regarding a property’s condition. When looking for a qualified home inspector, your first thought may well be to ask your real estate agent. After all, he has got you this far. A qualified home inspector is important to an agent’s business. Agents don’t want a finger pointed at them. Reputable real estate agent would not withhold information from a buyer or induce a third-party vendor to withhold information. Agents want their buyers to have full disclosure and be fully informed, those who aren’t will come back to haunt their agents after closing. More importantly, duped clients won’t refer anyone else to them, and given the word-of-mouth nature of the real-estate business, that’s the kiss of death.

Ask your Broker for a Home Inspection report
Besides, a home inspector’s negative findings don’t necessarily mean a deal is off. Buyer’s agents can negotiate repairs or cash credits as compensation. Only as a last resort do they advise the buyer to walk away if the home inspection reflects too many problems. Agents know what you should expect from the inspector, an in depth and complete written report highlighting the issues found along with their recommendations. But it should be objective and devoid of editorial sentiment. The commentary should detail different elements of the home but never offer sweeping generalisations about it.

Don’t get panicked
The agents’ usual problem with home inspectors is not so much that they’ll whitewash certain defects as that they’ll induce panic. They tend to get a panic attack the moment they hear that the property is going to be inspected. They have this inherent wrong idea that the home inspectors work against them, which is absolutely not the case. The Home Inspectors have no intention to tarnish the image of the agents whatsoever. But they should understand that it is in the best interest for all the parties involved. Home Inspectors are the Hot-steppers or the skilled people who are here to help the broker’s sale. They are absolutely not the deal breakers.

To have a competitive edge over others
The brokers can potentially sell the home for more money. If you are able to produce an inspection report that certifies your house as issue-free and without need for any major maintenance, this will help attract buyers. This may save the buyer the cost of arranging their own inspection, and helps ensure an overall smoother closing process. Buyers will have greater confidence in making an offer on your property, because they will have an official document and comfort from an unbiased third party certifying its true condition and value. The brokers, meanwhile can remain stress free.

Last but not the Least – Broker responsibility under the new Act – RERA

  • RERA Registration with all details
  • Maintain records
  • To keep home buyers informed with true project / unit status
  • To sell only registered projects
  • Promoters to display real estate agents’ names on their website
  • Penal Provisions – imprisonment up to one year / fine of up to 5% of the unit cost

Hence, it is safe to say the Home Inspection can greatly benefit a Real Estate Agent in:

  • Client Service – Greater Customer Satisfaction
  • Increase in Trust & Goodwill
  • Increased Professionalism & Brand – more referrals – more business