A building inspection is a visual assessment of the condition of a residential property. It can uncover issues that a prospective buyer may miss.
A detailed building and pest inspection can help you decide if a property is worth your money. It is an essential service for anyone considering buying a new home or investing in commercial property.
Identifying Issues
Whether purchasing a new home, selling one or undergoing renovations, identifying issues with a building inspection can help you save money and keep your project on track. Many building issues are easy to miss but can have serious consequences, including structural damage and fire hazards. A professional inspector can find the problem and recommend a solution.
A comprehensive inspection report usually includes a general assessment of the property and a list of defects and issues identified during the inspection. The information may also contain photos or other documentation to support the findings. It may also include a recommendation for further testing or evaluation by a qualified expert, such as a pest inspector, plumber, gas plumber, electrician, structural engineer, geologist or surveyor.
Combined Building and Pest Inspections
The best way to ensure your home is safe and healthy is to inspect it regularly for termites, timber pests, wood decay fungi (Wood rot) and other environmental conditions. It is why the Australian Institute of Architects strongly recommends a Combined Building and Pest Inspection. A fully qualified Jim’s Building Inspections Adelaide franchisee can complete a combined inspection for you and have the report available within 24 hours.
Pre-purchase building and plumbing and gas inspections focus on finding leaks and inefficiencies that affect the safety or value of a property. These inspections can make a property safer and save buyers/sellers money by preventing water damage, reducing energy bills or allowing them to negotiate a lower price for the property.
A gas leak inspection focuses on checking for signs of a potential gas leak, such as wet spots on walls or ceilings and unusual smells. A licensed plumber or building inspector with plumbing expertise usually conducts this inspection. A plumbing inspection also includes the following:
- Examining visible water pipes and fixtures.
- Looking for signs of wear and tear or damage.
- Assessing the age of the systems.
A water leak inspection may also include an internal drain camera scan, which can avoid the need for more invasive methods like digging.
Getting a Good Deal
Finding a new home is an exciting yet intimidating adventure. The perfect house will often fall into your lap, but it is essential to remember that not every place is perfect. A detailed building inspection Adelaide will allow you to see the actual condition of the property and make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right purchase for you. A good building inspector will take the time to inspect all aspects of a property, including the roof, walls, foundations, and fences. In addition, they will conduct a termite inspection.
Getting a detailed building inspection before you buy a home will save you both time and money in the long run. The building inspection cost will depend on the property’s size and the structure’s complexity. The time it takes to complete the assessment will also vary. A thorough inspection should take at least an hour for small properties and up to two hours for large houses. Shopping around and finding a home inspection company that offers competitive prices is essential. Avoid companies that advertise cheap inspections, as they may cut corners or not be qualified to complete the work.
If a problem is found during the inspection, it is essential to have the issue addressed before signing the contract. The building expert will assess the damage, determine how serious it is, and if it will require expensive repairs or if the issue can be repaired easily. It will allow you to negotiate with the seller to fix the problem before you move in or leave the purchase altogether.