David Kireli, a civil engineer says the most important element of all regarding construction is the strength and durability of the property. 

“Secondly, is there legal ownership, thirdly, is the physical planning aspect as regards the local authority by-laws after that then the rest follow.” 

Abdu Wahab Nyanzi, an architect, says every stage of the construction should be certified by an architect before the next commences. 

The architect should certify all materials to be used are on site. Where necessary, the architect shall request engineering tests to be done on sample materials. 

“The foundation trenches should be checked and a sign-off obtained before the blinding is done. The cement, sand and aggregates to be used have to be checked and passed to ensure they are fit for the job. This kind of check applies to all stages of the structure. At the end of the project, the developer should be able to present sign-off documents certifying that the construction was done to specification," he says. 

The project should have properly signed certificates confirming that the foundations, walls and roof were done under professional proper supervision. 

The architect should sign off on each stage of the work and give authorisation to proceed to the next. 

The developer should also be able to present certification of electrical wiring, including certificates of the quality of cables, and test results for concrete and steel. 

In light of the above, it is paramount that the intending buyer, before paying for the property, spends time and money by engaging the relevant technocrats, to establish the suitability and true value of the property in question. 

· A surveyor and lawyer can help ascertain land ownership. 

· The architect can help with planning 

· The engineer will check the strength of the property. 

· The intending developer can also engage a financial consultant to ascertain the viability of the intended project.