FAQ's

Frequently asked questions & answers on pre-purchase inspections

1 What is the value in having a pre-purchase inspection?   

to be informed on likely problems 
to get information to improve negotiating power
for professional advice and guidance on any particular concerns and advice generally to preserve the condition & structural performance of the building
to get a professional opinion on ideas for extensions and renovations
for peace of mind
to make a better, informed decision, on a property purchase  

2 Do you get into the roof space? 

Yes, where adequate roof access is available. Our inspections also include getting onto the roof, where safe to do so. 

3 Do you inspect under the floor? 

Yes, where adequate under-floor access is available.

4 What are your limitations in conducting inspections?

Each inspection may carry its unique set of limitations depending on the circumstances.  The extent and thoroughness of our inspections is limited by access and our reading of what is reasonable by way of time, intrusion and risk of doing physical damage to the property being inspected.  We do not inspect parts of the structure or building which are covered, unexposed or inaccessible and we are therefore unable to report that any such part of a building is free from defect.
Identification of hazardous materials or situations that may be in the building or on or near the property is outside the scope of our inspections.  However, we may incidentally include comment on such or other matters.
Some minor items may be noted but the inspection report does not include every matter of a minor nature.
The inspections are also limited by the scope of inspection undertaken - for example, termite damage or termite risk factors would not be covered in our Standard inspection but are covered in our Premium inspection.

5 When do people generally get the pre-purchase inspection done?

Home inspections can be done prior to making an offer, or with the exception of sale by auction, during the two working day "cooling-off" period, or as a condition of contract, by a date agreed with the vendor.
The most common approach is for the inspection to be done during the "cooling-off" period.
With respect to sale by auction, the inspection needs to be done prior to the auction date.

6 Are there any special issues with strata title homes?

When considering purchase of a strata title home, we recommend obtaining from the vendor or real estate agent a copy of at least the past two years annual general meeting minutes and financial statements and to have them available for our perusal at the time of the inspection, if possible.

7 How long does an inspection take?

The on-site time varies depending on the Level of the pre-purchase inspection, the size, type and age of the home, and whether the purchaser is present (highly recommended). The on-site time range is usually between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. In addition, the time to key up the report following the inspection is between 50 and 90 minutes. Contact us to get a more specific time estimate for your particular requirements and circumstances.

8 How quickly can an inspection be booked and when can I get the report?

An inspection can usually be booked within 24 to 48 hours.  To be sure, book as early as possible and have a better chance of a time slot that suits you if you wish to be present during the inspection.  It can be useful to book in your inspection before you sign the Form1 (Cooling-Off Rights) so as to be sure that the inspection is scheduled during the Cooling-Off  period if that is what you want.  Reports are keyed up immediately after the inspection.  If you are not present for the inspection, we can fax the report, e-mail it to you as a .pdf file, post it or in convenient situations, drop it off for you. 

9 What if the inspection quickly highlights issues that kill our interest?

We are flexible and will abort an inspection at your request if you are present. You would be charged on a time basis of $200/hour, subject to a $350.00* minimum fee.
     *  Plus any travel charge & any surcharge that applies for inspections on weekends, public holidays & after normal working hours.

                        Add GST to these prices.  Fees are current till 31st August 2008 

10 Can I call to clarify something or to ask questions following the inspection?

Yes, we provide this assistance as an integral part of our service. 

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