At the street
Watch traffic, parking, deliveries, noise and the five-foot way.
VIEWING A SHOPHOUSE
Walk it from street to rear lane.
Do not stop at the frontage. Walk the whole building to understand the space, condition and daily use.
Inside
Walk the full depth. Check light, airwells, damp, floors and services.
At the rear
Look at the lane, refuse, exhaust, fire escape and repair access.
On paper
Match what you saw with the title, tenancy and approvals.
CHECK THE BUILDING
Click the house. See what to check.
The street view is only the start. A proper viewing continues inside, through the airwell and to the rear lane.
WHAT TO CHECK
Front and windows
Look at original details, shutters, signs and air-conditioning.
Open the viewing checklist
Have a building in mind? Send me the address.
Ask me to review itONE MORE PART OF THE DECISION
Four moments that deserve more time
After rain
Fresh rain can reveal roof leaks, blocked drains, damp walls and how airwells discharge water.
On the upper floor
Feel for movement, heat and airflow. Check privacy, windows and whether the stairs support the intended use.
At the rear lane
Look at refuse, exhaust, fire escape, maintenance access and how neighbouring businesses use the lane.
Before leaving
Write down what could not be seen safely and what needs a lawyer, architect, engineer or inspector to confirm.
Finish the viewing with a short list of inaccessible areas, missing documents and questions for the appropriate building or legal professional.