The question is often asked – Why should I have a Building Inspection?
For the most part – Peace of mind.
Here are a few points to consider:
When buying an existing property you are also buying the problems that come with it. The most common of these in homes older than 25 years is salt damp. Salt damp can easily be covered up and in most cases cannot be detected to the untrained eye. In some cases salt damp may not become evident for at least 8-12 months. If ignored you may end up with a repair bill ranging from $2,000 - $15,000. In most cases salt damp can be detected by a thorough Building Inspection. To avoid any feelings of regret or anger we recommend a building inspection prior to the purchase of any property.
 
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Another common problem is cracked walls. Again these can be temporarily covered up and be undetected to the untrained eye. If not repaired properly, cracks in walls will continue to re-appear. The origin of the problem needs to be identified in order to avoid a costly repair bill. Potentially this can lead to underpinning of the wall. This is a costly exercise with little change from approximately $8000. The cost of repairs will depend on the extent of the damage. Joint deterioration is also common particularly in older homes and can often be confused with salt damp. The difference is that only the mortar joints deteriorate. There are also costs involved with repair work but these are minor in comparison to remedial work involved with salt damp. Termite damage can be devastating if the floor structure and timber frame of a home are infested. Severe cases can result in having your home demolished. Several treatment options are available which can be outlined as part of the building inspection process. Not all homes have these problems and to allay your fears a building inspection can give you the peace of mind you need. |
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When buying a new property here are some questions to consider:
Many home owners over the years have decided to take up the DIY option and add a pergola or new veranda to their properties. In some cases the wrong type of timber is used or the span of a beam can be far too wide. This can result in sagging at a later stage. Unsuitable timbers used outdoors often present well with a coat of paint although weathering can affect untreated timber causing deterioration with costly repairs or complete replacement. There is also the risk of the structure collapsing with the potential for injuries to be sustained. |
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Something else to consider is paving. In many cases the home owner will concrete or pave around the home subsequent to the main building being completed. It is often seen that they have breached the damp proof course resulting in salt damp appearing and attacking the base of the building in years to come. Consequently high costs are involved in rectifying such a significant issue as this and could have been avoided in the first instance.
Another common problem with new homes is lack of paint cover; in some cases internally but mainly on outdoor applications. Corners have been cut in order to save money. If there isn’t sufficient paint cover, particularly on external applications, it will be exposed to harsh weather conditions resulting in costly repairs and potential replacement.
Most of these problems may appear minor but if left unattended could escalate to incorporate costly repairs that could have been avoided with a Building Inspection.
When using the services of a Building Inspector you are engaging a trained professional to thoroughly check your property. Our job is to detect and point out any problem which gives you the opportunity to repair, replace and avoid any future damage that may occur.
Think of the considerable time and money you can save when contemplating Building Inspection. Whether you’re in the market to buy an existing home or building a new home – for a small investment you can save thousands of dollars.
Call Bruno Cirjak on 0418 826 708 or for further information visit the website.
