Is Everything Really OK With Your Home?
Walking around Lisbon, you sometimes see little pieces of art that stick with you. Recently, I passed one that simply asked: “Everything OK?” with a “Yes / No” underneath.
It made me smile — but it also made me think about the same question I hear every single time from buyers, sellers, agents and renters:
Is everything really OK with this home?
The truth is: sometimes the answer isn’t obvious.
Why “OK” Isn’t Always Clear in a Home
Homes in Portugal are full of character — from classic stone masonry buildings in Lisbon, to new builds along the Silver Coast, to traditional villas in the Algarve. But charm doesn’t always tell the full story.
Behind the walls or under the tiles, there can be hidden issues like:
Roof leaks that only show during heavy rain
Outdated electrical systems
Plumbing that works… until it doesn’t
Moisture and ventilation problems that lead to mold
Safety concerns that aren’t visible at first glance
These things don’t always shout “problem” right away, but they can become costly surprises if left unchecked.
What a Home Inspection Really Answers
A professional home inspection isn’t about scaring people. It’s about getting clarity.
When I perform an inspection, I look at:
Structure & Roofing – Are things solid, watertight, and safe?
Plumbing & Electrical – Does it meet modern expectations, or are upgrades needed?
Health & Safety – Moisture, ventilation, or other issues that affect everyday living.
Overall Condition – What’s working now, and what needs attention soon.
The end result is a detailed, photo-rich report. Instead of guessing “yes” or “no,” you have the facts in front of you — in plain language — so you can make an informed choice.
When to Ask the Question: “Is Everything OK?”
In Portugal, the timing of an inspection matters. A few common situations:
Before CPCV – Many buyers prefer to inspect before signing, since the CPCV contract is legally binding.
With an Inspection Clause – Some contracts include a clause allowing inspection after CPCV.
For Sellers – A pre-listing inspection helps identify issues before putting the property on the market.
For Renters – A rental condition inspection documents the state of the home, protecting both sides.
Whichever path you choose, the goal is the same: making sure the home really is “OK” before committing.
Why This Matters for Buyers, Sellers, and Renters
Buying or renting in Portugal is more than a financial decision — it’s emotional, too. A home represents safety, family, and future.
That’s why knowing what’s behind the walls, not just what’s in the photos, makes all the difference. A clear inspection means:
Buyers avoid unpleasant surprises.
Sellers show transparency and build trust.
Renters know exactly what they’re moving into.
So… Is Everything OK?
Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. But, it takes a trained eye and a few hours on site to know for sure.
At Ajuda Home Inspection, I help clients across Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, the Algarve, and the Silver Coast answer that exact question with confidence.
Want to see what a real inspection looks like? Check out our sample reports here.