FAQs for Property Inspection in Portugal

It's best to engage PIDS after your offer is accepted but before signing the CPCV (promissory contract), ensuring your purchase is contingent on the findings of a professional property inspection. If timing is tight, negotiate an inspection clause so you can revisit the price or exit if major issues are found.

Yes - clients are strongly encouraged to attend. Being present allows you to ask questions in real time and receive immediate insights from the inspector. We recommend a summary discussion at the end of the inspection. If you can't attend, your agent or lawyer can provide access instead.

Yes. We assess roofing materials, structure, flashings, chimneys, and gutters. We also examine foundations, load-bearing walls, balconies, and any accessible crawlspaces or attics.

A typical inspection by PIDS takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the property's size, age, and condition. New construction inspections may take up to 4 hours for larger properties.

Our 100+ checkpoint inspection covers: Exterior & Grounds, Structural Integrity (foundation, walls, roof), Interior Elements (floors, ceilings, finishes), MEP Systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), Safety & Accessibility, and Moisture & Environmental Conditions. We deliver full bilingual reports in English and Portuguese.

PIDS does not provide repair cost estimates. We document findings with photos and severity ratings, and recommend consulting with licensed contractors for specific repair quotes. Our report gives you the information you need to obtain accurate quotes.

No. Our reports are intended for the exclusive use of our clients regarding the specific property inspected. They should not be passed to third parties without our consent.

Yes. PIDS is always available for consultation after you purchase the property - for follow-up questions about the inspection findings, prioritising repairs, or guidance on issues that come up during your first months of ownership.

Ideally after your first viewing and before signing the CPCV (promissory contract). The CPCV is legally binding in Portugal, so walking away after it is signed can be costly. Inspecting beforehand keeps you in control - we recommend confirming the exact penalties with your Portuguese lawyer.

This is very common. Your estate agent or lawyer can provide access. You'll receive a full bilingual digital report with photos and clear recommendations within 48 hours - giving you complete information to make a decision remotely.

The report documents all findings with photos and severity ratings. You can use specific findings - with professional repair quotes from contractors - to justify a lower purchase price or request repairs. Many buyers achieve a 5% or greater reduction using their PIDS report.

No. An energy certificate (Certificado Energético, legally required for sale or rental) rates energy efficiency only. A full property inspection covers structural condition, damp, roof, electrical safety, plumbing, and everything the energy certificate doesn't assess.

Ideally before the final handover and before you sign the acceptance document (auto de vistoria). Once you accept the property, any defects become your problem to prove were pre-existing.

The report includes photographic evidence, descriptions of all defects found, and recommendations for rectification. It's an invaluable tool for discussion with the developer about any corrections required before acceptance.

Yes. We use digital levels, moisture meters, and thermal imaging to identify discrepancies in insulation, potential leaks, or structural anomalies not visible to the naked eye - especially important for new builds where defects are often hidden behind fresh finishes.