As owners and investors scramble to add value to their properties, they often choose to make minor structural changes that appear easy and inexpensive to undertake – but can be a liability when it comes time to sell.

One common value add example we come across is the timber deck . The problem is that the humble deck has to be built in accordance with building codes. Quite often we will find that the decks are built without enough support, you will notice a bounce when you walk on them. A lot of handy men choose to construct the decks with untreated pine. It looks great – until the timber rots and you fall through the floor.

When inspecting a purchase look for black mould on the wood work. If a deck is high off the ground they should have a deck – many don’t . If it’s close to the ground it gets wood rot and attracts white ants. Stumps without stirrups or white ant caps will also attract white ants . Rot and white ant damage could render the decking as structurally unsound depending on the amount of damage.

If you notice any of these signs during your inspection it would be advisable to have the property checked by a professional building inspector.