What are the main documents you would want to peruse when you have interest in a property? A LIM and building inspection report are both the “go to” for most people. How about archives?
Archives are a fantastic and cost-effective way of obtaining further information on a property that you are about to pay hundreds of thousands, even millions on in the premise of purchasing. While a LIM will provide a list of permits/consents obtained for a property the archives will delve much deeper.
As an example, a file I obtained form archives for a home sold in Wilton recently contained 463 pages. Yes, you read that right, 463 pages. These pages included plans of the home, detailed info about topography and retaining walls (including pictures during construction), detailed information regarding the building consent, a very comprehensive set of documents around building products used and installation specifications and much more. As thorough and important as a LIM report is, it doesn’t go into this level of detail. Archives also go back a long way. Recent archives I ordered for a property in Karori had a 12-page dwelling building application from 1928 and drainage plans from 1928.
Most people purchase properties without referring to archives. But it can assist from the selling and purchasing sides of the transaction. Fundamentally, information can be good. Some purchasers don’t have a want or need for that level of information and some do.
LINK TO ARCHIVES HERE this link is great in terms of finding out what files are available pertaining to a property you are interested in. The blue “visit archives online” button will show you what is available and the “building consent search service” link will allow you to order. The great thing is you will only pay a maximum of $65 for this service.
Something to consider if selling or buying.
