Behind the facade of what seems to be a dream home, problematic issues may be lurking. Before spending hard-earned money on purchasing property, it’s imperative to have a professional building inspection conducted to ensure the home is in reasonable shape. Pre-purchase inspection reports can help uncover potential problems which may not be immediately obvious, thus…
Efflorescence (white powdery flaking) on brick work can mean moisture problems. and is a crystaline deposit on surfaces of masonry, stucco or concrete Simple washing can sometimes remove efflorescence. Scrub with a stiff brush and mild detergent or plain water A general rule for cleaning efflorescence is to try gentle methods first before moving on…
1. Termite inspections and timber pest inspections are different. While most real estate agents know this, it’s a common misunderstanding among the general public. Termite inspections only cover termites, while timber pest inspections cover certain other timber pests, too. So if the contract is conditional upon a termite inspection, and the buyer conducts a timber…
What is Sarking? Roof sarking is a membrane that is fitted during tile or metal roof construction. The flexible membrane is usually installed under the battens to provide thermal insulation and to prevent water and dust penetration in the roof space. Sarking is installed either under the main roof material in a building or sometimes…
The Department of Commerce is now recommending that real estate agents provide a Property Interest Report to prospective buyers before they sign an Offer and Acceptance. A Property Interest Report, previously known as an Interest Enquiry, is a comprehensive report containing information on Government interests over a particular parcel of land. Interests might include things…
Q. I am planning to buy a home but don’t know who the building inspectors are in my area. On the other hand, I have a good friend who is a licensed builder, and he has offered to do my building inspection for free. He is a very experienced builder with vast construction knowledge, and…
A recent experience with live termites has highlighted the importance of making timber pest clauses crystal clear. Under the terms of the Offer and Acceptance, a real estate contract was conditional upon a timber pest inspection report being obtained by the buyer. The timber pest inspection clause stated that “If the report discloses live timber…
Building inspections can in some instances be one of the biggest hurdles for buyers and sellers. Everyone holds their breath during the inspection process in hopes that there are no significant problems found with the home. Navigating inspections and repairs can be a slippery affair, but if everyone remains level-headed and fair, the process can…
Why do I need to organise a pre-purchase property report? Buying a property is a big decision and it shouldn’t be left to chance. Pre-purchase building inspection reports provide valuable and detailed information designed to give you improved confidence and peace of mind in making your property decision. The investment to purchase a report is…
Most outdoor home areas are the centre of activity during Spring and Summer so it’s important that some simple easy checks are done to ensure trouble free enjoyment especially if the property is being prepared for sale Houspect Building Inspections WA Director Chris Walsh said ‘Most of us view the backyard as an extension of…