Buying a home is a milestone. But imagine this: you get the keys, walk into your brand-new flat in Ahmedabad's SG Highway, and spot a dark patch near the bathroom wall. Or worse, termite trails on the skirting. That sinking feeling is real.

Here is the thing: possession day is not just about celebrations. It is your last chance to catch hidden defects. Termite, seepage and cracks: 12 defects to check before possession can save you lakhs in repairs. In my 15 years covering Gujarat real estate, I have seen buyers rush through this process. They regret it later. Let me walk you through the checklist that every buyer needs.

Why a Pre-Possession Inspection Matters

The reality is simple: once you sign the possession letter, the builder's liability shrinks. Under RERA Gujarat, builders must fix structural defects for five years. But non-structural issues? Those are often your headache.

Take Ramesh, a client who bought a flat in Surat's Vesu area. He skipped inspection. Six months later, seepage from the terrace ruined his false ceiling. The builder said it was "maintenance," not a defect. That cost Ramesh Rs 1.5 lakh. Do not be Ramesh.

Termite, Seepage and Cracks: 12 Defects to Check Before Possession

Here is the core list. I have grouped them into three categories. Check each one carefully.

Termite Threats You Cannot Ignore

Termites are silent destroyers. In Gujarat's humid climate, especially in areas like Vadodara's Alkapuri or Rajkot's Kalawad Road, they thrive.

1. Wooden frames and doors – Tap on window frames. A hollow sound means termites have eaten the wood from inside. Check door bottoms too.

2. Skirting and baseboards – Look for tiny mud tubes along the wall-floor joint. That is a termite highway.

3. Kitchen cabinets – Open all cabinets. Smell for dampness. See any small holes? That is bad news.

4. Anti-termite treatment proof – Ask the builder for the termite warranty certificate. Many builders in Ahmedabad's Gota area offer 10-year termite cover. Get it in writing.

Seepage and Water Damage

Seepage is the most common complaint I hear. It leads to mould, peeling paint, and health issues.

5. Bathroom walls – Run your hand along the wall adjacent to the shower. If it feels damp, there is a waterproofing failure. In new flats on Surat's Piplod road, this is a recurring issue.

6. External walls – After a rain, check for dark patches. In Gandhinagar's GIFT City area, many towers face this due to poor waterproofing.

7. Terrace and balcony – Pour a bucket of water on the terrace. Wait 10 minutes. Check the ceiling below for drips. This test saved a buyer in Ahmedabad's Bopal from a Rs 3 lakh repair.

8. Window and door seals – Close a window and hold a piece of paper. If it slides out easily, the seal is poor. That means water will enter during monsoon.

Cracks: Structural vs. Cosmetic

Not all cracks are dangerous. But you need to know the difference.

9. Hairline cracks on plaster – These are usually cosmetic. They happen due to shrinkage. However, if they are wider than 2mm, worry.

10. Cracks on load-bearing walls – Check around beams and columns. Diagonal cracks are a red flag. A buyer in Vadodara's Gotri area found a diagonal crack in the living room. The builder had to redo the entire wall.

11. Cracks on floor tiles – Walk across every room. Listen for hollow sounds. Loose tiles mean poor workmanship.

12. Cracks on ceiling – Especially near the junction of walls. This can indicate slab movement. Get a structural engineer if you spot this.

Other Critical Defects to Watch

Beyond the big three, here are issues that often slip through.

Electrical and Plumbing

- Switchboards – Check every switch. Plug in a phone charger. If it flickers, the wiring is loose.

- Water pressure – Turn on all taps simultaneously. Low pressure in upper floors is common in Ahmedabad's Shela area. Demand a booster pump.

- Drainage – Pour water in all sinks and see if it drains fast. Slow drainage means blockages.

Flooring and Finishes

- Tile alignment – Run your foot across joints. Uneven tiles are trip hazards.

- Paint quality – Rub a wet cloth on a wall. If paint comes off, it is cheap quality.

- Woodwork – Open and close all drawers. They should slide smoothly.

Legal and RERA Tips

RERA Gujarat mandates that builders provide a list of fittings and fixtures. Cross-check every item. If the agreement says "branded sanitaryware" and you see a no-name brand, raise a flag.

Also, remember: the defect liability period is five years from possession. But you must report defects in writing within 30 days of noticing them. Keep a copy of the letter. I recommend sending it via registered post or email with read receipt.

Practical Actionable Tips

Here is what I tell every buyer:

1. Hire a professional – Spend Rs 5,000-10,000 on a civil engineer. It is worth it. In Ahmedabad, firms like HomeInspect Gujarat offer this service.

2. Take photos – Document every defect with date-stamped photos. Builders often deny issues later.

3. Bring a friend – A second pair of eyes catches things you miss. Especially for termite and seepage.

4. Check during rain – If possible, visit after a heavy shower. That is when seepage shows up best.

5. Use a spirit level – Place it on floors and window sills. If it is not level, demand correction.

Key Takeaways

- Termite, seepage and cracks: 12 defects to check before possession – this is your non-negotiable checklist.

- Always inspect before signing the possession letter.

- Structural defects must be reported within 30 days.

- For flats in Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, or Rajkot, hire a local inspector who knows the area's common issues.

- Do not accept verbal promises – get everything in writing.

Conclusion

Possession day should be joyful. But a little caution now saves big money later. Termite, seepage and cracks: 12 defects to check before possession – this checklist is your shield.

Walk through your new flat with this list. Take your time. Do not let the builder rush you. After all, this is your home. You deserve it to be perfect.

Ready to inspect? Print this list and take it with you. And if you spot any defect, do not sign until it is fixed. Your future self will thank you.