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Pre Purchase Inspection Q1. What do you inspect? All inspections follow the guidelines of Australian Standard 4349.1. Normal inspections include on the roof, in the roof, ceilings, walls, floors, doors, floor space, plumbing (drains, water pressure, taps, hot water service) electrical (switchboard, earthing, safety switch, smoke alarms, visible wiring), footings, paving and retaining walls. The inspection particularly identifies safety issues, significant defects and urgent maintenance items. While some minor issues will also be identified. Whether or not a defect should be regarded as significant, depends to a large extent on the age and type of building being inspected. Q2. Do you inspect for termites? Yes,we do look for any signs of termites as well as noting any areas vulnerable to termite attack, however, while we are experienced inspectors, we are not registered pest inspectors and it is not a pest inspection to AS 3660 standard. When there are any indications that termites may be present or that the house is vulnerable to termite attack we will have no hesitation in advising you to consult a pest inspector. Houses built from 1995 onwards are particularly vulnerable to termite attack because of changesin chemicals used in termite sprays. In 1995 the use of "organochlorides" was replaced with more environmentally friendly "organophosphates". Unfortunately the new chemicals have a useful life of 7 to 10 years and many recently built houses have suffered termite attack. Q3. How much does it cost? Prices start at $300 for units and $390 for small homes. This includes our written report. Additinal services include a CD of digital photos of the house or unit, showing details of the inspection. Photos are particularly useful in explaining particular problems detailed in the report, that may not be visible during a normal open house. Interstate or absentee buyers find the CD of 50 to 100 photos taken during the inspection a valuable resource when dealing with issues such as replacement of appliances or water heaters.. Q4. How much notice do you need? 24 hours notice is usually okay. We understand the stressful nature of real estate sales and will try to work with you no matter what the notice. Q5. Can I attend the inspection? Yes. Clients are encouraged to attend so that particular items can be explained, making you more familiar and comfortable with your decision to buy the house. About 50 to 100 digital photos are taken of most houses from the inspector's point of view. If you are unable to attend the inspection then you can walk through the inspection with me via the photos. The photos are available to you if you wish. Q6. How long does it take? A normal inspection takes about an hour for a unit and an hour and a half for a small house. Q7. When will I get the report? A verbal report is available immediately after the inspection. The written report will normally be emailed to you that evening or early the next day. Q8. Who organises the inspection time? Normally you will call us when the contract is signed and we will arrange a mutually convenient time with the Agent. Q9. Are there limitations to the inspection? Yes. Inspections are of a visual, non-destructive nature. We don't drill holes in floors or walls. We would not normally move furniture. Sometimes access in the roof space is restricted by air conditioning ducting. Q10. How do I pay? Payment can be made by cash, cheque, bank transfer, Visa or Mastercard. Payment on the day is preferred.
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