Some defects are obvious from the doorway. Others surface after the first heavy rain, the first winter, or the first time you unblock the kitchen drain. Knowing what to look for in advance matters whether you are accepting a new-build or renting on the secondary market.
Mould behind furniture
A classic one: a wardrobe pushed against an external wall, and black mould behind it. During any viewing, ask for heavy furniture to be moved away from external walls. That is exactly where air does not circulate and condensation builds up. If the landlord or developer refuses, that itself is a signal.
Ventilation problems
Poor ventilation is not just uncomfortable — it causes mould, bad odours, and health issues. Test every grille: hold an A4 sheet against it — with adequate airflow it should stay pressed to the wall. In older Warsaw tenement buildings, ventilation shafts can be blocked for years. In new-builds they can be obstructed from day one.
Leaky windows and cold bridges
A window can look perfectly fine and still let cold air in at every corner. In summer you will not notice; in winter the heating bill will surprise you. Hold a lighter flame or your palm near the gap between the frame and the surround. If you feel air movement, the seals need replacing. It is a quick, inexpensive fix.
Electrics and plumbing — what is hidden in the walls
Safety note: work on the distribution board and on the main water supply requires professional knowledge and tools — do not attempt it yourself unless you are a qualified electrician or plumber.
Old aluminium wiring instead of copper is a fire hazard. Open the distribution board and check whether there are residual-current devices (RCDs). Their absence in an 1980s flat is common, but it is something you need to know about. For plumbing, inspect pipes under the kitchen sink and bathroom basin — slow leaks are invisible and the resulting damage takes a long time to fix properly.
Floors — what laminate is hiding
A creaking floor is not always worn panels. Sometimes it means the screed has delaminated, or there is moisture underneath. Kneel down and listen as you press — a different pitch in different spots suggests a hollow screed. Localised swelling of panels near skirting boards points to missing expansion gaps or moisture rising from below.
What to do when you find a problem
Many of these defects can be fixed quickly and without a major renovation — the key is finding them before you sign anything or before you move in. If something looks questionable but you are not sure how serious it is, leave a request through the form. We will come, assess on the spot, and tell you exactly what needs fixing and what you can live with.