Construction Risk Analysis — Paraguay

Topographical survey? Differences in elevation, slopes, and drainage patterns determine the foundation, drainage, and construction costs. A survey plan (plano topográfico) is indispensable.

Orientation relative to the sun? In Paraguay (southern hemisphere), the sun is in the north. Ideal: living spaces to the north for maximum daylight and passive solar energy. Bedrooms are best to the south for cooler nights.

Orientation relative to the prevailing wind? The prevailing wind in Paraguay comes from the NE-N-NW. This affects ventilation, cooling, and the rain tightness of facades.

Planned construction projects nearby? These can affect views, light, and accessibility. Check with the municipalidad for known future projects.

Risk of expropriation? Verify whether there are planned road works, public works, or other projects that could affect the land or accessibility.

Access to utilities? Check availability of electricity (ANDE), drinking water (ESSAP or own water well), sewage or septic tank, telephone/internet (Tigo, Claro, Personal).

Quality and condition of the access road? Is the road paved? Who is responsible for maintenance? Is there direct access or only through a third party?

Distance to amenities? Schools, hospital, shops, fire brigade — distance has an impact on insurance and daily life.

Is the parcel officially building land? Verify the zoning with the municipalidad. In Paraguay there is no national building code—each municipality has its own rules.

Is the land registered in the seller’s name? Check the title deed (escritura pública) and have it verified by an independent notary (escribano).

Is the title registered with the DGRP? (Dirección General de los Registros Públicos) — registration in the Registro Público is mandatory and decisive for property rights.

INDERT land? Lands granted through the INDERT (land reform) are prohibited for foreigners and are subject to a mandatory possession period of 10 years. Informal trading in these lands is illegal and leads to double sales, eviction, and lack of legal protection.

Are there debts, mortgages, or embargos on the land? Request a full extract from the DGRP. A debt on the land transfers with the sale if it has not been cleared.

Are there easements (servidumbres)? Check for rights of way, water lines, electricity lines, or other third-party usage rights that limit free use.

Are there disputed property rights or ongoing lawsuits? In Paraguay, land conflicts are frequent. Request a certificado de libre de litigios.

Do the physical boundaries match the cadastral plans? Have the boundary markers (mojones) verified by a surveyor. Deviations are frequent in Paraguay.

Are there illegal occupants or encroachments? A physical site visit is mandatory. Long-term occupation can have legal consequences in Paraguay.

Border zone legislation (Ley 2532/05)? Plots within 50 km of the border are subject to special restrictions on foreign ownership.

Anti-money laundering obligation? Real estate agents, as 'sujeto obligado', are required to carry out due diligence for SEPRELAD. Always work with registered agents.

Certificado Catastral? This certificate from the SNC (Servicio Nacional de Catastro) is mandatory before any transfer of ownership.

Have the property taxes been paid? Outstanding IBI (Impuesto Inmobiliario) can be an obstacle to transfer.

Notary fees and transfer costs? Budget an additional approximately 3-4% of the purchase price for escritura, notary, registration, and transfer tax.

Soil investigation (estudio geotécnico)? In Paraguay, soil quality is highly variable. Lateritic red soils are stable, but other areas have soft ground, peat, clay, or expansive soil. Without soil investigation = building blindly.

Flood risk? Paraguay experiences extreme rainfall (up to 1,800 mm/year). Verify whether the lot is in a flood zone, what the historical highest water level is, and whether drainage exists.

Underground water vein or high groundwater table? This affects the foundation, basement, drainage, and rising damp. Verify through sources and local information.

Soil contamination? Previous agricultural use (pesticides, herbicides) or industrial use can cause soil contamination. Ask about the historical use of the lot.

Proximity to high-voltage lines? Affects safety, health, and buildability. A mandatory clearance zone applies around high-voltage lines.

Underground pipes, cables, or sewer lines? Request plans from the municipalidad and utility companies (ANDE, ESSAP, COPACO) for gas, water, electricity, and telecom.

Proximity to industry, pig farms, odorous or noisy activities? This strongly affects future living quality.

Presence of valuable trees or protected nature? Cutting certain trees in Paraguay requires a permit (MADES).

Termite pressure in the soil? Paraguay is a risk zone for termites (kupi'i). Pre-treatment of the soil and foundation is strongly recommended.

Proximity to cemeteries, landfills, or water extraction areas? This has environmental and legal implications.

Has the urbanisación been legally approved by the municipalidad? In Paraguay, informal lots are sold without official approval. Never buy in a subdivision without having seen the approval resolution (resolución municipal).

Have the common infrastructure works (roads, sewage, electricity) been carried out or guaranteed? Subdivisions are sometimes sold before infrastructure is built, with vague promises. Who pays if the developer goes bankrupt?

Is there a formal homeowners' association (Asociación de Propietarios) or management structure? Who administers the urbanisación, who collects the fees, who is liable for common facilities?

What are the mandatory monthly or annual fees? For security, road maintenance, gardens, swimming pool, sports fields... Are these fees contractually fixed or can they increase? In which currency (Guarani / USD)?

What are the building regulations within the urbanisación? Minimum lot area, mandatory style, façade materials, colors, roof type, setback lines, number of floors. This can strongly limit your design freedom.

Is there a building obligation within the urbanisación? Some urbanisaciones require you to build within a certain period (e.g. 2 or 3 years). What are the sanctions for non-compliance?

Are there restrictions on use or resale? Prohibition of professional activities, rental, bed & breakfast, etc.?

Who owns the common areas and green zones? Is the transfer to the residents' association or municipality formally recorded?

Are there guarantees for security and access control? Is there 24-hour security, a camera system, a barrier gate? Who is responsible for ensuring continuity of these services?

Are there clauses that restrict the architectural style or construction method? Some urbanisaciones prohibit certain building systems (steel structures, prefabricated systems, etc.) that differ from traditional construction. Verify compatibility with HYBRISTRUCT/HIBS.

Quality and capacity of the electrical network (ANDE or private)? Is the system sized for air-conditioning load and future EV charging points?

Water source: public network or shared well? Water quality, reservoir capacity, responsibility for management and costs.

Sewage system: connection to the municipal network or individual septic tank? Who monitors the emptying and operation of collective systems?

Accessibility for fire and emergency services? Are the roads wide enough for fire trucks? Is there sufficient firewater pressure?

Internet connection? Fiber, 4G/5G coverage, or only slow DSL? This is crucial for remote work and home automation.

Stormwater management and flood safety? Is there a collective drainage system? Is it designed for extreme rainfall?

Orientation of the house in relation to the sun? In Paraguay, the sun is in the north. Living areas (living room, kitchen, terrace) are best oriented to the north for light and passive warmth in winter. Bedrooms to the south for cooler nights in summer.

Protection against the western sun? The afternoon sun (west) is particularly harsh in Paraguay. Awnings, pergolas, trees or verandas on the west side are essential. Without protection: unacceptable heat load.

Orientation with respect to prevailing rain? The dominant wind and rain come predominantly from the north/northeast. Facades and window openings on that side must receive special attention for rain tightness.

Are the roof overhangs sufficiently deep? In Paraguay (intense tropical rainfall + strong sun), wide roof overhangs (min. 80-100 cm) are absolutely necessary for facade protection and thermal comfort.

Has ventilation been thoughtfully incorporated into the design? Cross-ventilation, high windows for heat removal, awnings that block direct sun but let the breeze through — passive cooling is in Paraguay just as important as air conditioning.

Are the room heights sufficient? Minimum 2.80 m — preferably 3.00-3.20 m in a warm climate for thermal comfort.

Has universal accessibility been taken into account? Step-free access, wide doors, no stairs for people with limited mobility. Even if this is not needed now, it is wise to plan for it.

Are the technical rooms (electrical, HVAC, water storage) well positioned? Technical rooms that are difficult to access later = expensive repairs.

Are 'future proof' service shafts provided? Empty conduits for future cabling (domotics, solar energy, charging stations) are inexpensive to install during construction but very expensive to add afterwards.

Is the design scalable or expandable? Has a future upper floor or extension been structurally taken into account?

Is the architect officially registered with the CAP? (Consejo Arquitectos del Paraguay) — Unregistered architects may not submit plans to the municipalidad.

Does the architect also take on the role of structural engineer (calculador estrutural), or is that a separate party? One responsibility = one point of contact. Two separate parties = risk of back-and-forth when problems arise.

What is the architect's contractual liability? In Paraguay there is statutory liability for hidden defects, but the contractual wording determines your practical remedies. Have the contract reviewed by a lawyer.

How many designs are included in the fee? Is a flat fee charged or a fee per revision? Are there limits on the number of adjustment rounds?

Is there an obligation to build with the architect? Some architects link the design to construction supervision. Is there an option to have only the design prepared and choose a contractor yourself?

Does the architect only provide coordination, or does he also assume substantive responsibility as structural engineer? Coordination only = he organizes, but guarantees nothing. Structural engineer = he is jointly liable for structural integrity.

What are the fees? In Paraguay, architects' fees are sometimes calculated as a percentage of construction cost (typically 5-10%). Make sure the basis (construction cost) is clearly defined.

Who retains the intellectual property of the plans? In the event of a dispute or termination: may you use the plans with another contractor?

Are reference projects available? Review previously completed projects — preferably on site — and speak with former clients.

Is the architect familiar with modern construction systems? Specifically: does he have experience with composite construction systems such as EPS, foamcrete, steel frame — or does he build exclusively in traditional concrete/brick?

Building permit (permiso de construcción) from the municipalidad? This is the basic permit, mandatory for every construction project. Building without a permit = risk of fines, work stoppage, or even demolition order.

Approval of the plans by the municipalidad? The architectural and structural plans must be officially approved before the start of the works.

Is an environmental permit (licencia ambiental — MADES) required? For larger projects or projects near protected areas, an environmental assessment is mandatory.

Are special permits required for tree felling? The MADES monitors the cutting of protected species. Fines can be very high.

Connection to utility networks? Separate applications for ANDE (electricity), ESSAP (water), COPACO (telephone) — each with its own procedures and lead times.

Fire safety inspection (DIGEN — Dirección General de Bomberos)? Depending on the size and nature of the project.

Final handover (certificado de habitabilidad / recepción final)? After completion, the municipalidad must officially accept the home. Without this certificate, the home is not legally habitable and you will have difficulty selling or renting it.

What are the costs of the building permit? Depending on the municipality and the construction cost; budget at least 0.5-2% of the estimated construction value.

What is the expected approval lead time? In Paraguay this can range from several weeks to more than 6 months — depending on the municipality and the completeness of the file. Build this into your timeline.

Is there a construction obligation attached to the permit? Some permits require the works to start within a certain period (e.g. 6-12 months).

What is the validity period of the building permit? A permit has limited validity. Renewal is not always automatic or free.

Is a municipal inspection scheduled during construction? In Paraguay enforcement is variable — but officially municipal inspectors have access to the site. Make sure you are always compliant.

Are the required documents complete and correct? An incomplete file causes delays. Make sure the submitted plans match what will actually be built.

Is there a single contract or are there multiple contracts? The ideal scenario: one contract with one responsible party (architect = builder = coordinator). With multiple contracts (architect separate, builder separate, plumber separate...), the chance of responsibility ping-pong in case of problems is very high.

Does the builder have all disciplines in-house? Or does he work with subcontractors? If so: who is ultimately responsible for their work? Are the subcontractors registered and insured?

What are the contractual guarantees? Minimum warranty periods per discipline (structure, waterproofing, installations, finishing). Are these set out in writing?

What is the legal liability in Paraguay? Paraguayan legislation provides for liability for hidden defects, but the time limits and procedures depend heavily on the contractual arrangements. It is advisable to have a lawyer review it.

Are there penalty clauses for late completion? Without a penalty clause, the contractor has no financial incentive to respect the schedule.

Is the contractor insured? Public liability, work-related accidents on site, material damage. Ask for a copy of the insurance policies.

Who owns the materials on site before installation? In the event of the contractor's bankruptcy: are the materials already paid for but not yet installed included?

Is there a buyout or termination clause? What are the conditions if you want to end the collaboration?

Payment schedule linked to construction progress? Ideal: payment by phase based on an approved progress report. NEVER: large advance payments without equivalent work.

Retention withheld (security amount)? It is customary to withhold 5-10% of each installment until after the completion period. This gives the contractor a financial incentive to carry out repairs correctly.

Are payments in USD or Guarani? Specify for each payment installment in which currency payment will be made and based on which exchange-rate date.

No full advance payment! Never pay 100% in advance. An advance payment of max. 10-20% for materials is customary and acceptable; more is dangerous.

Bank guarantee or surety bond? For large projects: require a bank guarantee or performance bond for proper execution. This protects you in the event of the contractor’s bankruptcy.

Are all payments traceable (bank transfer)? Avoid cash payments — they are impossible to prove in disputes.

Is there a formal pre-delivery inspection (pre-entrega) with a punch list? Before the official handover, a walkthrough is carried out in which all defects are listed in an official document (punch list). The contractor undertakes to correct them before final handover.

Is there a warranty period after handover? And what exactly does it cover? (Visible defects vs. hidden defects — different time limits).

How quickly does the contractor respond to repair requests? Contractually defined response times (e.g. 48h for urgent defects, 2 weeks for non-urgent repairs) are a must.

Are all certificates, attestations, and as-built plans included at handover? As-built plans (actual execution), electrical diagram, plumbing diagram, HVAC diagram, operating manuals...

Are keys, access codes, and warranty documents formally handed over?

Who carries out the daily follow-up on site? A resident site manager or architect present daily = ideal. An architect who visits weekly = absolute minimum. No supervision = dangerous.

How are findings from site visits documented? Written reports (site reports) with date, observations, required actions, and signatures of both parties are indispensable in disputes.

Does the client (you) have access to the site? You must have access to your own site at all times for inspection.

Is there a photo-recording system? Detailed photographic documentation per execution phase — especially of elements that will later be hidden (pipes, reinforcement, foundations) — is essential as evidence in later complaints.

Is there an independent quality inspector (other than the executing party)? An independent engineer or architect who inspects on behalf of the client is an extra cost but can prevent significant hidden defects.

Who coordinates the various subcontractors? Who makes sure the electrician, plumber, and carpenter do not work at cross purposes and are present at the right time?

Level of detail in the quotation? A detailed quotation specifies each component separately: materials (brand, quality, quantity), transport and labor as separate items. A "global" or "all-in" price is a red flag: you do not know what you are buying and the contractor can cut quality without you knowing it.

Are all works included in the quotation? Check for 'hidden' or 'optional' items: site preparation, utility connections, drainage, painting, landscaping, driveway, fencing... What is included and what is not?

Breakdown in Guarani and USD? In Paraguay, large construction projects are priced partly in USD (structure, materials) and partly in Guarani (labor, local materials). The exchange rate fluctuates strongly. Require a quotation that indicates each item in the currency in which it will also be paid — this avoids exchange-rate surprises that can lead to cost increases of 10-20%.

Are additional works clearly defined? What is the procedure and pricing for works that fall outside the original quote? Unit prices for additional works (price per m², per m³, per hour of labor) must be contractually established.

Is there freedom of choice of materials and sourcing? May you purchase materials yourself or decide on them? If so, how is the price adjustment settled (labor costs remain, material price is removed)? Are there quality guarantees if you supply the materials yourself?

Are there indexation clauses? During longer construction periods, material costs may rise. Are prices fixed or linked to an index? To which index (inflation in Paraguay, exchange rate of the dollar)?

Is there a settlement table for quantity differences? If a work item costs more or less in meters than estimated, this is settled at the unit price in the quote.

Is there a detailed schedule (time plan) with milestones? A general schedule ("6 months") is insufficient. You need a week-by-week or month-by-month schedule with review points.

Have weather conditions been taken into account in the schedule? Paraguay has a pronounced rainy season (October-April). Construction projects can suffer serious delays due to heavy rainfall. Is this contractually regulated?

Have vacation periods and public holidays been factored in? Paraguay has a Carnival period (± 2 weeks), an extended Christmas holiday period, and numerous national holidays when the site is shut down.

Are construction stoppages contractually regulated? Who decides when the site stops (bad weather, material shortage)? How are delays and impacts settled?

Working hours on the site? Are the normal working hours set out? Is it permitted to work on Saturdays or in the evening if that benefits the schedule?

Type of foundation - Based on the geotechnical soil study (mandatory!). Options: founded on competent soil (foundation slab), pile foundation, strip footing. Without a soil study, the type of foundation is a guess.

Foundation depth - Must reach the competent soil layer. In Paraguay this can vary from 40 cm to several meters. Insufficient depth = settlement damage.

Drainage system around the foundation - In a tropical climate with heavy rainfall, drainage around the foundation is essential to avoid water accumulation and moisture damage. Are drainage trenches, drainage pipes, and a drainage layer provided?

Geotextile - A geotextile sheet between the soil and the drainage layer prevents fine sand from clogging the drainage. Cheap to install, expensive to repair afterwards.

Vapour barrier (barrera anti-humedad) - A horizontal vapour barrier in the foundation assembly (HDPE sheet, bituminous membrane) prevents capillary rise of moisture in the walls. In Paraguay this is absolutely essential.

Anti-termite treatment - Chemical soil treatment against termites (kupi'i) before pouring the concrete slab. In Paraguay this is a standard procedure that must absolutely not be skipped.

Insulation of the foundation slab - EPS insulation under the concrete slab avoids thermal bridges and keeps the floor cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Reinforcement and concrete quality - Do the steel diameters and concrete class comply with the structural calculations? Insufficient reinforcement is a hidden risk that only becomes visible once cracking occurs.

Slope of the foundation level - Is the area around the foundation laid out so that rainwater always drains away from the dwelling? Minimum 2% slope away from the facade.

Roof type: flat vs. pitched roof - In Paraguay, pitched roofs (tejas) are dominant and better suited to the climate. Flat roofs are cheaper but require perfect waterproofing — a leaking flat roof is catastrophic in a tropical climate.

Roof covering and waterproofing - Roof tiles (ceramic, concrete, steel): quality and overlap are crucial. Roof underlayment/membrane beneath the tiles: is it present and of good quality? For a flat roof: at minimum, a two-layer bituminous or polyurethane system.

Roof insulation - In Paraguay, the roof is responsible for approximately 40-50% of the total heat gain. An uninsulated roof makes air conditioning very expensive. EPS or mineral wool insulation in the roof is absolutely recommended.

Ventilation of the roof space - A ventilated roof space (entre-techo) thermally insulates the living area and extends the service life of the roof covering.

Roof junctions (proper sealing at walls, chimneys, windows) - The most vulnerable points are the transitions: roof-wall, roof-window, roof penetrations. Inadequate sealing here = water infiltration guaranteed.

Rainwater drainage system (canaletas en bajadas) - Adequate sizing of gutters and downpipes for the intense rainfall in Paraguay. Minimum: design for 150 mm/hour precipitation. Are there overflow openings in case the gutters become clogged?

Roof overhangs - As mentioned earlier: minimum 80-100 cm roof overhangs around the house for facade protection and thermal comfort. Are these provided at every level?

Protection of gutters against leaves and insects - Dirt filters in the gutters prevent clogging. Mosquito net over the ridge or ventilation openings.

Glazing - See the introductory example: single glazing = unacceptable in a warm climate. Double glazing with Low-E coating = minimum recommendation.

Solar-control glass (Low-E or tinted) - In Paraguay, solar shading is essential. A Low-E coating or tinted glass significantly reduces heat gain (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient < 0.35).

Window frame material - PVC frames: good insulation, low maintenance. Aluminium without thermal break: thermal bridge. Aluminium with thermal break: good. Wood: attractive but high maintenance in tropical climate.

Tightness of windows and doors - Air leakage around windows and doors is a major source of heat loss/gain and sound infiltration. Are there high-quality rubber seals and multipoint locks?

Mosquito screens - In Paraguay, mosquito screens on all windows and doors are absolutely necessary. Are these sturdy, insect-proof meshes?

Solar shading (exterior) - External shading (awnings, shutters, screens) is more effective than internal shading. Is this provided and compatible with the architectural concept?

Locks and security - Break-in resistance of windows and doors: how many locks are there, are they security locks, are the hinges burglary-resistant?

Door draft stoppers - A simple but effective detail for airtightness, insects and noise.

Capillary rising damp - As mentioned earlier: a horizontal damp-proof barrier in the foundation is absolutely necessary.

Infiltration through facades - In Paraguay, wind-driven rain loads on facades can be enormous (high wind speed + intensity). Are the facade cladding and joints sufficiently waterproof? Is a water-resistant membrane layer or impregnating agent provided?

Condensation on thermal bridges - In places where the building envelope is cold (thermal bridges, poorly insulated glass), warm, humid indoor air condenses. This leads to mold and health risks. Thermal bridges must be eliminated.

Humidity control in bathrooms - Mandatory mechanical ventilation in bathrooms + showers. Waterproof walls to a minimum height of 2.10 m. Water-repellent joints (epoxy grout).

Moisture detection system - Smart moisture meters in vulnerable areas (crawl space, bathroom, basement) sound an alarm when abnormal moisture levels are detected.

Protection of lintels and window sills - Lintels above windows and doors are vulnerable infiltration points. Drip edge + sufficient slope + sealing with elastic sealant are mandatory.

Moisture problems in flat roofs - Flat roofs in a tropical climate with heavy rainfall are risky. Two-layer waterproofing, correct slopes (min. 1-2%) and sufficient overflow drains are mandatory.

Theft protection on the construction site - In Paraguay, theft of construction materials (cables, sanitary fixtures, cement, steel reinforcement) is a real problem. Is there security on the site? Is the property fenced?

Protection of stored materials from rain - Cement, gypsum board, insulation materials, wood and electrical materials must be stored protected. A soaked bag of cement or a wet piece of gypsum board is unusable.

Protection of already completed parts - Tile floors, new windows, paint — are these covered and protected during further works? Damage caused by construction workers is a classic source of discussion at handover.

Safety on the construction site (seguridad laboral) - Helmets, safety shoes, safety harness when working at height. In Paraguay enforcement of this is weak, but your liability as owner-builder is real.

Protection of neighboring properties - Have measures been taken to prevent and document damage to neighbors (sidewalk, wall, planting)?

Correct disposal of construction waste - Who is responsible for removing construction waste? Illegal dumping is an environmental offense. Are the costs included in the quote?

Floor finish - Freshwater-resistant, cool-to-the-touch ceramic or porcelain tiles are the norm in Paraguay for living areas. Are the dimensions and quality (PEI 4-5 hardness for high loads) specified?

Exterior wall finish - Are the exterior plaster system and exterior paint weather-resistant and breathable? In a humid climate, vapor-permeable exterior paint is essential.

Ceiling finish - Acoustic ceiling, gypsum board or concrete ceiling. In Paraguay, stretch ceilings (cielorasos) are popular. Is there sufficient space for HVAC ducts and lighting?

Kitchen: materials and execution - Worktop: granite, ceramic, quartz? Cabinets: solid wood, MDF, PVC-laminated? In a humid climate, solid wood is risky for kitchen cabinets.

Sanitary fittings: quality of the fixtures - Are the bathroom fixtures specified (brand, quality)? Cheap faucets in Paraguay are notoriously unreliable.

Drainage line plan - Has a detailed sewerage plan been prepared before execution? Have the diameters been correctly calculated based on the number of usage points?

Slope of drainage lines - Minimum 1-2% slope for sanitary drains. Too little slope = blockages. Too much slope = liquid runs off without carrying solids along.

Placement of registros (maintenance points) - Registros are essential for cleaning in case of blockages — but their placement is critical. They must NOT be located: under tiles in the living room, under fixed furniture, in the bedroom, or in hard-to-reach places. They must ALWAYS be accessible: in technical rooms, outside, under removable panels.

Waterproofness of drainage lines - Are the connections correct and watertight? A leaking drainage pipe in the concrete slab or in a wall is a disaster to repair.

Water treatment installation: septic tank or connection - If there is no municipal sewer system: type and capacity of the septic tank (fosa séptica), biofilter or treatment plant. Is there sufficient capacity for the planned number of residents?

Drinking water pipes: material - In Paraguay, PVC or lead pipes are still sometimes used for drinking water. Use only PEX, PP-R or copper for drinking water.

Water pressure and water storage - Is there a water reservoir (cisterna) with sufficient capacity (minimum 2,000-5,000 liters depending on use)? Is there a pressure-boosting pump?

Hot water system - Electric boiler per unit vs. central hot water system vs. solar water heater. In Paraguay, a solar water heater is energetically interesting.

Siphons and water seals - Are water seals (siphons) present at all drainage points to prevent sewer odors? In a warm climate, siphons dry out quickly — an automatic filling system is recommended.

Rainwater recovery - Is there a rainwater collection system (cisterna pluvial) for garden irrigation or toilet flushing?

Cooling solution - In Paraguay, cooling is not a luxury but a necessity (summer temperatures > 38°C). System type: split unit per room (cheap, maintenance-intensive, unattractive), multi-split (better), centralized system (VRF/VRV or ducted ventilation).

Heating solution - Paraguay has cold winters (5-10°C at night). A heat pump function on the air conditioner or underfloor heating is pleasant.

Ventilation system - Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (WTW/HRV): in a well-insulated house, essential for air quality. In a less well-insulated house, opening windows with mosquito screens is sufficient.

Cooling capacity calculation - Has the cooling capacity per room been calculated based on volume, orientation, insulation and number of people? An undersized air conditioner runs non-stop and never reaches the desired temperature.

Energy class of air-conditioning units - Paraguay is a DAIKIN/MITSUBISHI market. Choose A++ or higher (high COP) — this saves on the electricity bill for years.

Position of air-conditioning units - Indoor unit: avoid direct airflow onto sleeping or seating areas. Outdoor unit: place in the shade (in the sun = 15% lower efficiency) and protect against sun and rain.

Electrical diagram and sizing - Has a complete electrical diagram been prepared by a qualified electrical engineer? Is the main line sized for the total future load (air conditioning, stove, EV charger...)?

Grounding (tierra) - A properly installed grounding system is a serious safety issue in Paraguay. Check whether the grounding has been installed and measured in accordance with the standards.

Surge protection (protección contra sobretensión) - Paraguay has frequent mains voltage fluctuations and lightning. Surge protection devices (DPS) on the main board and per sensitive appliance are essential.

Cable diameter and quality - Have the correct cable diameters been used per circuit? Use only copper wire (no aluminum). Are the cables compliant with Paraguayan ITAIPU/IEC standards?

Connection to the ANDE grid - What is the available connection capacity (kVA)? Is a three-phase connection possible/necessary? What are the costs and lead time?

Backup power solution: generator vs. battery - Generator (diesel): inexpensive as backup but noisy, polluting, and fuel-dependent. LFP battery storage (lithium iron phosphate): quiet, clean, can be combined with solar energy. Ideal system: solar energy + battery + generator as ultimate backup.

Photovoltaic system (solar panels) - Paraguay has excellent sunlight hours (±5.5 peak sun hours/day). Solar panels are economically very interesting. Are empty cable conduits provided for future installation?

Domotics infrastructure - Empty conduits for network cables (Cat6/Cat6a), HDMI, audio, domotics controllers. Were the cable routes planned before the cast concrete works?

Data and telecommunications network - Fiber connection point, internal Cat6 star topology, Wi-Fi access points integrated into the plan.

Security system - Cameras, alarm, motion sensors, external lighting — are the cable routes provided for in the construction phase?

Lighting plan - Is there a detailed lighting plan for each room? Sufficient outlets (avoid the Paraguayan habit of too few outlets)?

Electric vehicle charging point - Is a circuit and charging point for a future electric car provided?

Type of load-bearing structure - Traditional concrete + brick wall, or an alternative system (steel frame, EPS composite, HIBS...). The type has a direct impact on structural safety, insulation value, construction time and cost price.

Single vs. double wall - Single wall (most common in Paraguay): cheap but no insulation. Double wall with air cavity or insulating layer: higher initial cost but dramatically better thermal comfort.

Thermal mass of the walls - Thick concrete or brick walls have a high thermal mass: they absorb heat during the day and release it at night. In a warm climate this is positive if there is also night ventilation.

Insulation of the exterior walls - EPS, mineral wool, or composite insulation (as in HIBS) on the outside or inside. Without insulation in a warm climate = extremely high air conditioning costs.

Thermal bridges - Concrete columns and beams passing through the insulating facade create thermal bridges (cold bridges). Are these interrupted or insulated?

Earthquake resistance (sismorresistencia) - Paraguay is not a high-risk zone, but it is good practice to size the structure in accordance with the applicable standards. Verify whether the structural calculations take this into account.

Wind loads - Paraguay occasionally experiences strong gusts of wind (surazos). Are the structural connections (roof truss, roof tiles, pergolas) designed for wind loads?

Sound insulation between rooms - Are the interior walls sufficiently heavy acoustically? Thin blocks provide little acoustic comfort.