When it comes to purchasing or selling a property, a pre-purchase property inspection is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and successful transaction. These professional inspections help identify a property’s potential structural defects and pest infestations, providing valuable insights for buyers and sellers.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common structural issues and minor defects that are often found during these inspections.
1. Cracked Roof Tiles
Cracked roof tiles are common issues found during building inspections, regardless of whether the property is brand new or already established. A well-maintained roof is critical for weatherproofing the home and avoiding roof leaks. Neglecting cracked tiles can lead to further damage over time. The inspector will assess the state of the roof, identify cracked tiles, and advise on sealant maintenance and other potential issues.
2. Inadequate Clearance Around Downlights
Improperly placed halogen downlights in close proximity to roof timbers can pose a considerable fire hazard. Adhering to safety standards, it is recommended that halogen recessed downlights should maintain a clearance of 200mm from both structural timbers and thermal insulation, whereas other types of recessed downlights necessitate a minimum clearance of 100mm. Unfortunately, during inspections, it is not uncommon to discover downlights that have been inaccurately installed, thereby escalating the risk of potential fire hazards.
3. Shower Leakage
A leaking shower can lead to water penetrating the surrounding walls, causing bubbling or loss of adhesion to the wall substrate. This issue can often go unnoticed, but inspectors can identify the signs and advise on the appropriate course of action to rectify the problem and prevent further damage.
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4. Minor Cracking
Ceiling cornices, walls and wall junctions may exhibit minor cracking, which is usually a cosmetic issue rather than a major defect. Nonetheless, it can be unsightly and may escalate to a more severe defect if ignored for too long. A building inspector can evaluate the cracking and determine whether it requires maintenance or if there’s a need for more substantial repairs.
5. Inadequate Downpipe Placement
Downpipes dispersing water close to or onto the building’s footings and foundations can lead to moisture-related issues. These problems include attracting pests, mould, fungal decay, and potential movement of the structure due to inconsistent wetting and drying of the soil. Properly directing downpipes away from the house is essential to maintaining the integrity of the property’s foundation.
6. Inadequate Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for preventing problems like wood rot, toxic mould, black mould, and water damage. Poor ventilation, especially in the under-house area, can lead to serious issues that may go unnoticed for a long period of time until they become severe and need expensive repairs.
7. Roof Damage
Roofs are a property’s first line of defence against harsh weather conditions, and as such, they are susceptible to damage over time. Australia’s climate, with its intense heat, heavy rains, and strong winds, can take a toll on roofs, leading to various issues that may compromise the property’s integrity and occupant safety. A thorough building inspection can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing faulty roofs before they escalate.
8. Plumbing Issues
Leaky pipes are a common plumbing issue that can lead to water damage in the property. Water leaks can occur in various areas, such as under sinks, in walls, or underground. If left unaddressed, these leaks can cause damage to walls, flooring, and other structural elements, leading to costly repairs and compromising the property’s integrity. A thorough inspection of the plumbing system ensures that potential issues are detected early on.
9. Incomplete Construction
Properties with incomplete constructions refer to buildings that have not been fully finished or may have undergone renovations without proper completion. Incomplete construction can result in various defects and safety concerns that require attention and rectification before the property is sold. One of the primary concerns with incomplete construction is the potential impact on the property’s structural integrity. If certain structural elements are not properly installed or lack necessary reinforcements, it can compromise the overall stability of the building.
10. Pest Infestation
Pest inspections are crucial as termites and other timber pests can cause extensive structural damage that is often concealed from plain sight. Contrary to popular belief, brick veneer houses are not immune to termite activity and termite infestation. While the external brick layer provides an extra layer of protection against weather elements, the internal structural elements of these houses are typically made of wood. Termites can find their way into the wooden components, leading to hidden damage that goes unnoticed until a thorough pest and termite inspection is conducted.
Book A Building & Pest Inspection
Whether you’re considering purchasing a property or preparing to sell one, a professional building and pest inspection report from a reputable company like Uncover Building and Pest Inspections can provide valuable insights and peace of mind. By identifying and addressing these common defects and structural faults early on, both parties can ensure a successful and secure real estate transaction.
Uncover Building & Pest Inspections carry out pre-purchase inspections and handover reports throughout the Hunter Valley and Central Coast regions including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, and surrounding areas. Book your building inspection online today.
