Why are Building and Pest Inspections So Important?
When you’re about to purchase the most expensive investment of your life, you’ll want to know what you’re getting yourself into.
This is why a building and pest inspection can make or break your next property purchase. Think of it as your best friend. That “friend” that will tell you the truth no matter what you might want to hear.
A building and pest report will reveal any hidden problems you won’t necessarily see when you first view the property and make an offer. And could save you thousands of dollars.
Here at North Brisbane Home Loans we’ve been working with Asset Building and Pest inspections for almost 15 years, so we trust their advice.
Asset Building and Pest owner Marty Slater says he often comes across home buyers who don’t understand why they need to pay to have a building and pest inspection done.
“But it’s so important because so many properties are dressed up for sale and we look at the areas that a buyer typically won’t look,” he said.
“We like the buyer to be with us as it’s really good for the person to be there to test things themselves and simply take off those rose coloured glasses.”
And don’t be fooled into thinking you only need an inspection for older homes. Marty says building and pest inspections are needed for both existing and new builds.
“When it comes to new builds we can pick up on plaster and tiling defects for example,” he said.
“It really is a very small investment for peace of mind.”
What do inspectors look at in the home?
A building inspector will examine all accessible parts of the property, including the interior and exterior of the building. This includes all roof space, underfloor space, the roof exterior and the actual site of the property should also be inspected.
Inspectors will look for signs of structural movement, water penetration, roof leads and most importantly termites.
“In Brisbane we’re coming across termites at least two to three times a week,” he said.
“Sometimes these are in the house, other times just in the yard and we can take steps to manage it.
Asset Building and Pest use thermal imaging cameras across all ceilings and walls to pick up potential moisture spots the eye can’t see. These cameras also show termite activity.
Frequently asked questions
Asset Building and Pest answer some of the most frequently asked questions below:
How long does an inspection take?
Usually one hour to 90 minutes. You’ll then receive a comprehensive report.
Is an inspection report good value for money?
For a couple of hundred dollars, you could potentially avoid unexpected repairs stretching anywhere from $10K to upwards of $100K. Even if no major defects are found, often the report will be useful during the negotiation process.
Do I need to check for Asbestos?
Newer houses are usually ok, but if you’re purchasing a house that is a few decades old, then you should definitely consider it.
Why Should I Check Pool Safety?
If the property has a pool then you’d be wise to ensure that it fully meets the current regulations.
Do houses with concrete slabs need a pest inspection?
Unfortunately, yes. The frame of the house and other key structural components are still made of wood and termites only need small gaps through the concrete slab to gain access. Termites will often get in via gaps around pipes, electrical cables, and through covered weep holes, for example.
You can watch the video here: https://youtu.be/i-it8gn2ZBI
Patrick Cranshaw, a Certified Mortgage Professional for over 21 years, founded North Brisbane Home Loans in 2002. His career began with ANZ Bank in New Zealand, where he progressed over 16 years to a Business Banking role in Virginia. After moving to Brisbane in 2000, Patrick led the QLD market for a home loan agency, helped set up the REMAX Real Estate Finance division, and practiced as a broker.
