It is highly recommended that you have a chat with the inspector and go over the report together that way he can explain each defect and its severity.
Each defect should have the four W’s. What the hell is the four W’s you’re thinking. The four W’s are What, Where, Who and Why. Still confused? This is what we use at Clear View Property Inspections to identify the defects found. Ok I will give you a basic example. “High moisture identified to ensuite shower wall. Engage a builder for further advice to prevent further deterioration”. In that sentence we have identified What the defect is, Where it is and Who to engage and Why. Generally, in our reports we will detail more information about the defect and likely cause. The defects will also be categorised in Major or Minor defects.
The Major or Minor defects can get confusing for the property purchaser as a Major defect sounds awful and can be a deterrent for the purchaser when they see it. This is why a good conversation with the property inspector is vital.
A Major defect may not be as bad as you think. A major defect is a defect of sufficient magnitude where rectification has to be carried out in order to avoid unsafe conditions, loss of utility or further deterioration.
For example, wood decay to the entrance door. This would be a major defect although its not a structural issue it still fits in that category. If the door is not repaired it will continue to deteriorate.
Broken glass? Yes, another major defect. If its not fixed it is unsafe, someone could get hurt and the property is not water tight.
We at Clear View Property Inspections basically identify a major defect if its either a structural issue, Moisture issue or an issue that if it’s not fixed will the defect continue to get worse? If the answer is Yes then it’s a Major defect. For this Reason, we always call our clients for an in-depth chat about the property we inspected and go over the report together that we can explain what issues are serious and costly. Generally, we can give our clients a ball park figure on repair costs. We find this a good tool for our clients to consider if they wish to still buy the property and use as a negotiating tool to negotiate off the purchase price.
Minor defects for us are generally cosmetic and visual defects. Its basically anything that is not a major defect.
Other items you will find on the building inspection report is Safety issues. Some examples can be items like insufficient balustrading, fall risks, Exposed electrical cables, No lift off hinges to bathrooms. Safety issues will be in its own category in the report.
You should now have better knowledge of what to expect in a Pre-purchase building inspection and hopefully a better understanding on how defects are categorised.
If you would like any further advice or to have a look at some sample building inspection reports head off to our website.
www.clearviewpropertyinspections.com.au