Choosing Inspections When Buying a Home

Personal Inspection

Most of us look at properties online and make a short list of those we would like to see up close.

The first opportunity that you will get to inspect a property in the real world is at an open house. An open house will give you the opportunity to walk around and through the house and get a general feel for the house and its suitability to your needs. You will be able to decide if you like the property or not and if you will take the next step.

If you get time during this inspection, most open houses last half an hour, we recommend you take the time to have a closer look. Some of the things we recommend you check are:

• Road noise
• Smell from the locality
• Window and doors ease of opening
• Signs of dampness or mould on walls and ceilings
• Taps and their ease of operation and water pressure
• Under the sinks and vanities for leaks
• Light fixtures and their operation
• Meterbox for safety switch and age of circuitry
• Signs of water ponding in the yard

Structural & Pest Assessment

The most crucial inspection, that should be non-negotiable, is an inspection of the buildings structure that also checks for pests. With all our experience, we believe that this type of assessment is a fundamental part of your due diligence process when buying a house. This is because a thorough inspection will give you the information you need to make an informed decision on your purchase based on the livability, condition, and safety of the house.

Not all building inspectors and inspections are the same. It is important the inspection be conducted by a licensed, experienced, and insured inspector.

Experienced building inspectors can identify potential issues with your new house that are not visible to the naked eye. Thorough inspections when buying a home include:

• The exterior of the building
• The interior of the building
• The roof cavity
• The subfloor space
• The roof exterior
• The lot within 30m of the building
• The termite barrier

Professional building inspectors will provide you with a detailed report, that includes photos, on the safety and potential issues in your new home. All building inspections completed by professionals like us are in accordance with the Australian Standard and the National Construction Code

Plumbing & Electrical Inspections

Building inspectors are not plumbers or electricians. We will test and identify basic plumbing and electrical issues. However, this is more of a general analysis, if more detailed information is required, it is highly recommended you get a licenced plumber and electrician to complete these inspections.

Pool Structure & Filtration

Inspection of the pool, filtration system and associated equipment is not included in a building and pest inspection. It is recommended you call relevant pool specialists to provide inspections and testing, as necessary, prior to a decision to purchase.

Pool Safety Inspections

If a swimming pool is present, a pool safety certificate is required. You should check with the vendor or agent to ensure there is a Pool Safety Certificate (Form 26) or a Notice Of No Pool Safety Certificate (Form 36). Pool fences have specific regulations attached to them, so it’s always best to check with a pool safety inspector to identify any potential issues associated with a pool in your new property.