Abstract
Purpose : It is becoming recognized the potential benefits of maintaining houses in a safe condition, and of optimizing their longevity. This study aims to create a culture where this is realized in Japan. In the U.S.A. and Australia, the market for `used' houses is active. Pre-purchase home inspections are rapidly becoming common as a means for checking on the quality of these `used' houses, prior to resale. These inspections identify possible defects or major costs for maintaining the safety and longevity of the homes. This study clarifies the process of Pre-purchase home inspections, and considers how their effectiveness is established. From the study, we aim to find out the social role and responsibility of owners/occupiers of detached houses and the conditions which support them. The purpose of the study then, is to establish useful guidelines for increasing used housing stock in good condition, in Japan. Method : This study firstly analyses the processes of pre-purchase home inspections from the buyers point of view, and clarifies the effectiveness of this process. Secondly, it analyses the usage housing information for buyers and how this information is being offered. We performed six data collection activities in the two locations of Brisbane (Australia) and Fresno (U.S.A.) from August to December of 1997. These were: 1) Interviews with Realtors and officials in city and state government; 2) telephone surveys of pre-purchase-home-inspection offices, banks, and insurance companies; 3) questionnaires to consumers(Australia — 291 samples; U.S.A. — 100samples); 4) case studies of the pre-purchase home inspection process (7samples); 5) participation in D.I.Y. (Do it Yourself) workshops; and 6)collection of inspection reports and of materials on housing information. Conclusion : Pre-purchase home inspections are typically utilized by home buyers to evaluate the land, the house, the utilities and appliances, visually using simple tools. The comprehensive inspection details features such as defects, improvements and makes recommendations for repairs. It offers information which assists with decision making by the potential buyer, giving the right to withdraw, or to negotiate the cost of repairs with the seller. By performing this inspection, potential problems related to buying and selling aspects of the contract can be avoided, and buyers are informed about the condition of the house. Therefore, pre-purchase home inspection has utility in maintaining the quality of `used' housing stock.
