What is a Building Inspection Report?

Over the course of a building inspection, the building inspector will evaluate the property in order to determine structural soundness and advise of any key maintenance issues. When the inspection is completed, your client will be presented with a thorough building inspection report, which will include a variety of results. These include:

Structural Observations

The roofing and roof frame, interior and exterior walls, doors and window frames will be inspected. Exterior evaluations include any patio or pergola areas, stairs and balconies. Retaining walls, out buildings, fences and cabinetry will also be evaluated, and the findings of these observations will be listed on the building inspection report.

Plumbing and Drainage

Some parts of the plumbing system of the property will be checked although the inspector is not a licensed plumber and therefore the comments are observations only. Exterior drainage and guttering is inspected along with some aspects of plumbing inside the house, all with the goal of preventing unpleasant surprises after your client has assumed ownership of the property.

Electrical Systems & Smoke Alarms

The power box will be assessed for the correct minimum number of RCD’s in line with the Australian Standard. The inspection report will also reference the set–up of smoke alarms –are they hardwired or battery? Are they positioned correctly in the building so as to perform according to specifications? The Australian Standard for Building Inspections (AS 4349–2007) recommends that all installation, testing and confirmation of electrical circuitry should be completed by a licensed electrician each time a property is sold

Building Defects

Even if they’re not of a structural nature, building defects can present a problem for home owners. A thorough building inspection report will include any found building defects, structural or otherwise.What a pre–purchase Building Inspection Report Won’t Tell You It’s no secret that a building inspection has the potential to save your client from costly repairs and structural amendments. While a building inspection report will cover all the bases in terms of electrical, plumbing and structural integrity, there are a few things a basic pre–purchase inspection will not cover

Termite Inspection
 
Termites can cause thousands of dollars of damage to a building in a relatively short time. A termite inspection is important, but will not be covered under most basic building inspections. Your client will need a separate inspection for termites if you have concerns about any damage their presence may have caused to the building.
 
Purchasing Decisions
 
Your building inspection report will not advise you to purchase or pass on a property. It will contain the relevant information you need in order to make the decision for yourself, but building inspection reports don’t apply a “pass or fail” grade.