What is a Building Inspection Report? PRE PURCHASE - TO AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS- AS 4349.1-2007
During a building inspection, the inspector will assess the property to establish structural soundness and notify you of any major maintenance issues or concerns that they can detect visually.You will be given a detailed building inspection report when the inspection once the inspection is finished and payment is received via Credit Card/ EFT , which will include a range of outcomes and photographic images. These are some of them:Observations on the Structure The roofing and roof frame, internal and external walls, doors and window frames, as well as the roofing and roof frame, will be inspected-(*If accessible) . Any patio or pergola spaces, staircases, and balconies are all evaluated on the outside. Retaining walls, outbuildings, fences, and cabinets will be assessed as well, and the results of these observations will be included in the building inspection report.
Plumbing and Drainage
Some parts of the plumbing system of the property will be checked although the inspector is not a licensed plumber and therefore the comments are visual observations only. Exterior drainage and guttering is inspected along with some aspects of plumbing inside the house, all with the goal of preventing unpleasant surprises after your client has assumed ownership of the property.
Electrical Systems & Smoke Alarms
The power box will be assessed for the correct minimum number of RCD’s in line with the Australian Standards. The inspection report will also reference the set–up of smoke alarms –are they hardwired or battery? Are they positioned correctly in the building so as to perform according to specifications? The Australian Standard for Building Inspections (AS 4349–2007) recommends that all installation, testing and confirmation of electrical circuitry should be completed by a licensed electrician each time a property is sold
Building Defects
Even if they’re not of a structural nature, building defects can present a problem for home owners. A thorough building inspection report will include any found building defects, structural or otherwise.What a pre–purchase Building Inspection Report Won’t Tell You It’s no secret that a building inspection has the potential to save you from costly repairs and structural amendments. While a building inspection report will cover all the bases in terms of electrical, plumbing and structural integrity, there are a few things a basic pre–purchase inspection will not cover.
Termite Inspections- ( PLEASE BOOK A PEST INSPECTION + REPORT )
Termites can cause thousands of dollars of damage to a building in a relatively short time. A termite inspection is important, but will not be covered under a standard building inspection. You will need to book a PEST INSPECTION and PEST REPORT to assess for termites and pest concerns, it is highly recommended to ascertain if any termites or damages can be seen visually by the inspector.
Purchasing Decisions
Your building inspection and report will not advise you to purchase or pass on a property. It will contain the relevant information and photographs obtained by the builder visually, for the accessible areas on the day, and give you an overview in order to assess and make an informed decision for yourself based on the areas that the inspector can access. Building inspection reports don’t apply a “pass or fail” grade.** Please note the inspector cannot fully inspect a property if it is fully furnished, some areas are non accessible- Eg Roof cavity, Rooms are locked or the Inspector cannot safely enter the manhole or if the property contains no access to the roof space/ manhole.** Time booked includes:- Builders Travelling time, inspections, reporting, photographs, emails, and phone calls if required.