Already this year, many parts of Australia have experienced higher than average rainfall. Many suburbs in Melbourne have flooded and homes have been damaged due to excessive rainfall.
For this reason, it’s more important than ever to ensure the property you are looking to buy isn’t leaking during heavy rain or storms. Water damage can be expensive and can cause serious structural damage. In fact, it is estimated that the root cause of more than 80% of building maintenance expense is moisture damage. This is partly because termites are attracted to moist timber in dark wall cavities.
Our pre-purchase building and pest inspector can help you identify any minor or major defects in the property that could lead to water damage or leaks and possible termite infestations. Our inspector will conduct a visual inspection of all accessible areas of the interior and exterior of the property to check for safety hazards, major defects and minor defects, which includes general maintenance.
Signs a property may not withstand wet weather
There are a few signs to look out for that may indicate the property is leaking during heavy rain or storms before you agree to purchase the property unconditionally under an REIV contract. Some of these may be identified within our building and pest inspection report.
Broken, clogged gutters or downpipes
Cracked, clogged or broken gutters and downpipes can lead to serious water problems during heavy rainfall or storms and can cause water to leak into the property’s ceiling.
If downpipes or drains are rusted, broken or clogged, it can cause water to accumulate and it can cause rising damp, mould and even encourage termite infestations. Identifying these issues early may allow you to negotiate the contract to allow a budget to fix the issues to ensure you are prepared for the storm season. If these issues are identified, you will need to engage a qualified roof plumber.
Inadequate site drainage
During a building and pest inspection the inspector will identify site drainage problems. It’s important that water runs away from the foundations of the building during heavy rain to avoid structural damage. Unfortunately, it is quite common that we find clear evidence that water falls towards the foundations. For example, this is evident with mould growth on concrete paths and/or sub-floor soils.
Broken window or door seals
A pre-purchase building and pest inspection will help identify both minor and major defects within the property. If there are any broken window or door seals the property may not withstand heavy downpours or stormy weather.
Over time flexible sealants breakdown and frames are susceptible to damage. If there is rotten, swollen or warped wood it could be a sign that water is coming in from the outside. We find evidence of this by carefully using our moisture meter around the window frames and skirting board below windows.
Roof damage and pitch
An inspection or the external roof and roof void are important aspects of a building and pest inspection. The inspector will check all accessible areas for damage where rain could leak in and evidence of where water leaks have occurred. For example, cracked tiles, missing mortar on the roof or moisture damaged timbers or mould growth inside the roof void are indications that the roof needs resealing.
Why trust a building and pest inspection?
You can trust Building and Pest Inspection Melbourne to carry out a detailed inspection that will clearly identify major and minor defects. Our registered building and pest inspectors have years of experience, are fully licensed and insured.
We provide inspections and reports within 3 days of booking your building and pest inspection, sometimes even the same day you book, ensuring you find out everything you need to know within your deadline. We provide comprehensive digital report with photos and a clear list of recommendations. If you have more questions, our inspectors are always eager to help explain the details.
How much does a building and pest inspection cost?
- $450* + GST for pre-auction building and pest inspections.
- $500* + GST for pre-purchase building and pest inspections.
*For properties with up to 5 bedrooms. A $90 + GST travel charge applies if the property is in a suburb more than 50km from the CBD. Book a pre-purchase building and pest inspection today or fill out an online form to get a fast quote!