A building inspection identifies needed repairs so you can better bargain for the price of the property or reject those that have significant damage. The report should ideally inform you of any potential issues with the real estate asset you intend to buy.
The harsh reality us you might not ever earn a flawless score on a building report. To put it another way, having unreasonable requirements will prevent you from making any investments.
Most of the time, buyers readily accept reports that highlight the most significant flaws in a property and describe how problematic each of them is. Good reports should include information on how to remediate any problems and an estimated cost of repair. This will allow you to make an educated decision regarding the home you’re about to purchase.
When trying to buy older homes, the prospect of what a building inspection might uncover can be daunting. Given that houses were built differently in the past, often utilising resources and applying construction techniques that may be viewed as problematic under today’s standards, problems are essentially a given when it comes to historical properties. Therefore, if you’re set on buying a period property with all of its magnificent details and rustic appeal, be prepared to receive a building assessment that includes a few flaws.
Here’s a list of some of the more common problems found in building inspections and the usual way these can addressed.
Problem: Roof
Any piece of real estate that does not have a functional roof will, in most cases, be susceptible to the elements. Because of this, the building inspector needs to check the condition of the roof at the time of the inspection. Failing to check whether or not the roof is in excellent shape would unquestionably count as a failed job. You have the right to put the home sale contract on hold if the roof is in such a sad situation and the pre-purchase inspection fails to take this into consideration. After all, the cost of replacing the roof is going to significantly increase your original investment in the real estate market.
Solution: Roof restoration
Contact a reliable, licensed roof restoration firm. They can quickly assess whether your problems can be addressed by simple repair and refurbishment or more significant and costly work. Once you have an idea of your future costs you can better negotiate a suitable price with the seller of the property.
Problem: Structural movement
The weight of a house ends up causing it to gradually sink into the ground over time, which can cause minute cracks to appear in the structure of the house. This phenomenon is known as “settling.” While the majority of cracks in a structure are not reason for concern, the size and pattern of certain cracks may point to a more significant issue.
Cracking in the structure, which can be caused by movement in the footings or the slab, can be a significant issue due to the challenges and expenses that are associated with repair. Foundation movement can be caused by factors including but not limited to inadequate drainage, ground movement, under-design, and/or poor construction procedures.
Solutions: Cosmetic/corrective
Minor cracks in walls or house structure can often be remedied with a bit of filling and painting. More serious defects should be judged by an engineer who will then advise the course of action that needs to be taken. In extreme cases this might mean demolition. In this case, it is advised to obtain a full cost schedule associated with remedying the problem which may assist in negotiating a better price for the property.
Problem: Mould
One of the most significant foes of a healthy home is moisture, which can lead to “Sick House Syndrome.” Condensation problems can arise when there is insufficient ventilation to prevent correct airflow from occurring. Most moisture problems are frequently caused by the excessive use of insulation in newly constructed homes. Mould thrives in humid environments with inadequate air circulation.
While surface mould in bathrooms with poor ventilation is considered common, black mould that grows in a home’s basement or crawl area has the potential to trigger asthma attacks and a wide variety of other major health issues. When black mould is present, it nearly invariably signals a larger and more serious problem that has to be addressed. It is possible that it is there because of fissures in the foundation through which water has gotten in, or it could be there because of costly difficulties with the home’s plumbing.
In any case, remediation of black mould can require a great deal of labour and cost a lot of money.
Solution: Use your building report to bring in expert help
Your building report should identify the likely source of any mould outbreak. Ventilation problems can be seen to by roof restoration professionals. Problems with leaking taps or lines will require a plumber. Maybe you will need a tiler to reseal a bathroom, kitchen or laundry. Your building report is more than just a negotiating tool, the information contained can give you a clear indication of what might be in store for you after you have purchased your property.
Book today with Vital Building Inspections Sydney.
A thorough, complete inspection from Vital Building Inspections Sydney is the best protection to prevent your Great Australian Dream turning into an expensive, drawn out nightmare. Our years of experience in property inspection and restoration means our expertise can help you negotiate the best possible price in a rampantly competitive market with a clearer vision of what the future holds for your property and ways to improve it.
To find out how Vital Building Inspections Sydney can help you use our contact form here or call 0401 012 074.
