In ascertaining whether a house is a desirable dwelling place, first examine the walls of the house, and if settlements or cracks are discernible, it is more than likely that the foundations are faulty; these should be bared and examined. Renewing or undei-pinning a foundation is a very expensive operation. When any serious settlement takes place, stone heads of windows show defects as soon as any part of the building. If the external walls of the house are built of rubble stone or brickwork, see that the mortar is of good quality; a simple test is to rub it between the finger and thumb, when, if it crumbles into dust, the work will require to be repointed in a short time to prevent moisture penetrating. If the house is covered with slates, see that zinc soakers are placed against the party walls. If it is covered with tiles, see that cement fillets instead of mortar fillets are used. In the selection of a cottage the sanitary arrangements are the object of most importance. It is essential, before purchasing, to have the drains tested by an expert. Never have a dustbin built against the wall of the house; the contents of the dustbin will saturate the wall and contaminate the air of the interior.

The damp course should be in accordance with the requirements expressed on p. 259, and must not be made of tarred felt material. Find out whether a proper circulation of air exists under the ground-floor joists, to prevent dry rot. If there is a drinking-water cistern, see that it does not directly supply a water-closet, and that the overflow from the cistern does not directly connect with the drain. The soil pipe should never be placed inside the house, because if it is defective in its original construction, or if it be subsequently damaged, a serious leakage of foul air takes place. The water-closet should have direct light and ventilation. The long hopper pan should be objected to, because it always becomes filthy. The sink should be in a well-lighted position and always against an external wall. See that none of the rainwater pipes have any connection with the soil pipes. As to the interior, see that the doors fit and are out of winding j observe the framing and see whether the shoulders are off - that would be an indication of unseasoned wood having been used. Look to the hinges; there may be only a screw or two in each hinge. Try the locks and see that the furniture is fixed on securely.

Examine the windows to see whether the sashes are too loose; if so, have the rattling remedied.