One of the most common questions we get asked is: Do I need a building and pest inspection?
If you are buying or selling a home, we have no hesitation – the answer is a resounding YES!
A building and pest inspection has two purposes:
- The Building Inspection: An objective examination of a home’s physical structure and systems, from the roof to the foundation by a qualified and licensed inspector.
- The Pest Inspection: Checking the home for signs of wood-destroying insects (such as termites or borers), rodents or other pests.
Why Invest in a Building and Pest Inspection?
When getting ready to put your home on the market, having a pre-sale building and pest inspection report helps you to identify any issues that could potentially de-rail a sale. Forewarned is forearmed: once you are informed you can decide whether to remedy the issues, or leave them for the next owner (realising of course that this will likely have a negative impact on the eventual sale price).
For those considering buying a property, building and pest inspections are a wise investment – we would even go so far as to say they should be an essential step in the home-buying process. For those tempted to rush and / or risk going without, let the buyer beware!
Whether it’s an apartment in South Brisbane, a single family home in the Redlands, or a commercial property in an industrial area like Slacks Creek in Logan, a building and pest inspection helps you identify potential problems before you buy it. With report in hand, you could negotiate a better price based on the estimated cost to fix the issue; or you could crash the contract altogether, and leave the headaches to somebody else.
The role of your building and pest inspector is to check the condition of the structure of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, and foundations for signs of damage or wear and tear, as well as identify any building code violations (which may void your insurance). They will also check for any signs of pests, such as termites, rats, or cockroaches, such as existing damage, or any potential entry points which could increase the risk of future infestation.
Possible Structural Defects and Flaws
Here are some of the defects that frequently come to light when we do a building and pest inspection – things you may never notice during those all-too-brief visits before signing a contract:
1. Pest Infestation
The climate here in Brisbane is paradise for pests – no wonder one of the most common structural defects in our homes is past or present pest infestation. This can include termites, carpenter ants, wood borers, and rodents, any of which can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home and can be expensive to treat. Even if you can’t see any signs of pests, be sure to have the property you are purchasing inspected by qualified professionals like Trimax Building Inspections, as we have the expertise and the equipment to uncover any hidden problems.
2. Drainage Problems
Poor drainage can lead to water seepage into the home, which can cause foundation problems, mold, and mildew. For current homeowners – if you notice any pooling water around your home or water stains on the walls or ceiling, be sure to get it inspected to determine (and address) the cause.
3. Fungal Decay
Fungal decay is another common structural defect due to Brisbane’s humid climate. When too much moisture is in the air, it can cause wood to rot and weaken – so if you notice any musty odors, mold, or mildew in your home, you’ll want a professional building inspection to determine the extent of the problem.
4. Foundation Issues
Foundation problems can include cracks in the foundation, settlement, and heaving. They can be caused by various factors, including poor drainage, soil erosion, and earthquakes. If you notice any cracks in the foundation or walls, doors that are sticking, or cracked windows in your home, be sure to call in a building and pest inspection professional to determine the cause – even if you aren’t considering selling.
5. Floor, Roof, or Wall Deterioration
Floor, roof, or wall deterioration can also signify a structural problem. Water damage, pests, or general wear and tear can cause this. If you notice any cracks, buckling, holes or bubbles in the floors, walls, or ceilings, be sure to have the home inspected to determine the cause, and protect your most important asset!
Protect your Property with a Building and Pest Inspection
It is important to understand the need for a building and pest inspection, particularly before purchasing a property – though there are times when you will want to have your current home checked, too. These inspections can help identify potential property problems that could cost you a lot of money to fix. It is always better to be safe than sorry – so book your building and pest inspection today, by calling Trimax Building Inspections on 0418 433 533.