Should I bring my dock up to code before I list it on the market?
Because we’re located on the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks, we are asked this a lot. For the clearest answer, contact us so we can come take a look at the property you’re hoping to sell. Some docks aren’t in the best shape and need many repairs to be safe for use; however, some docks may only need a few maintenance items to be completed, which is no sweat for you, the seller—or possibly, for the buyer. If you’re just hoping to learn about what considerations you should take, hopefully we can answer your questions here.
Updating Your Dock
Updating your home and dock are good things to take on prior to listing your house. When you do this, you’ll attract more buyers who want a move-in ready home. A lot of people move to this area because of the lake and all of it’s recreational activities. If your home has a dock that is safe, and ready to go for a buyer, they’ll be more willing to make an offer, and likely bring a better offer with the peace of mind that the dock is safe.
It’s similar to making updates on your house—sometimes people prefer an updated kitchen and bathrooms, so houses with those updates sell quicker and more often for more money. We like to think of it this way: if you make an update, does the initial cost of that update bring more value to your home, increasing it’s worth and/or make it sell faster? If so, and if it’s doable for you to make the updates, do them.
Dock Safety Code
If you are curious about what your dock needs to be considered safe, check out the dock requirements for this region as outlined by Ameren. Another useful resource is our blog about dock safety. You really can never be too safe.
Even if your dock was previously up to code, many conditions can change over time. Water movement, freezing and thawing can cause wear on your dock’s electrical equipment. The humidity we experience here can also take its toll on your dock, especially if it’s electric. Monthly ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) testing of electric equipment and bonding wires is recommended. Have both the dock and the power supply to the dock regularly inspected by a qualified electrician.
The bottom line is, if you own a dock, it should be up to code to ensure your safety as well as others, whether they’re potential buyers or not. If you are unable to keep your dock up to code prior to selling, give us a call to discuss possible solutions to ensure the buyer and Ameren will be satisfied at closing.
Our advice is to do your best to maintain your dock’s safety as it will only increase the value of your beautiful lake home. If you have more questions about getting your home ready to sell, call us! We know a thing or two about The Lake!