KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK
Architect Shahdad Karim
PART I: Getting to Know the Property
Chapter 5: Access Roads
and The Condition of Existing Roads
When it comes to purchasing a
property in Kerala, one of the most important factors to consider is the
condition of the access roads leading to the property. The availability and
condition of roads can impact everything from daily commutes to property
values, making it a crucial aspect of the buying process. Here is everything
you need to know about verifying the availability of access roads and the
condition of existing roads before purchasing a property in Kerala.
Why Access Roads Matter
Access roads play a crucial role in
determining the accessibility of a property, which in turn can affect its
value. Homes located on well-maintained and easily accessible roads are often
more desirable and sell for higher prices. In contrast, properties located on
poorly maintained or hard-to-reach roads can be less desirable and may require
additional time and money to maintain.
In addition to affecting property
values, access roads can also have a significant impact on your daily life. Commuting
to work or school can be significantly impacted by road conditions, and poor
road conditions can also make it difficult to transport goods and materials to
and from the property.
How to Verify the Availability and Condition of Access Roads
There are several steps you can take
to verify the availability and condition of access roads before purchasing a
property in Kerala:
1. Visit the Property in
Person
The first step in verifying the
condition of access roads is to visit the property in person. This will give
you an idea of the condition of the roads leading to the property, as well as
any potential obstacles or hazards that may impact your ability to access the
property.
2. Check with Local
Authorities
Local authorities are responsible for
maintaining roads in their jurisdiction, so it is important to check with them
to find out if the roads leading to the property are public or private, and who
is responsible for maintaining them. You can also inquire about any planned
road construction or repairs in the area, as this can affect road conditions in
the future.
3. Research Online
You can also research the condition
of access roads online by using tools like Google Maps or Google Earth. This
can give you an aerial view of the area and help you identify any potential
issues like steep inclines, narrow roads, or unpaved surfaces.
4. Speak with Neighbors
Speaking with neighbors can be a
valuable source of information about the condition of access roads in the area.
They can provide insights on the quality of the roads and any issues they have
experienced in the past, such as flooding or damage due to heavy rains.
5. Hire a Professional
If you are not confident in your
ability to assess the condition of access roads on your own, consider hiring a
professional. A civil engineer or surveyor can provide a detailed report on the
condition of the roads and any potential issues that may need to be addressed
in the future.
Conclusion
The condition of access roads can
have a significant impact on the value and livability of a property, making it
crucial for homebuyers in Kerala to verify their availability and condition
before making a purchase. By taking the time to visit the property in person,
checking with local authorities, researching online, speaking with neighbors,
and hiring a professional, you can ensure that you have a complete picture of
the condition of access roads and make an informed decision about your
purchase.
