Purchasing a property is one of the biggest investments most people will make in their lifetime. Before committing to buy a house or apartment, it is crucial that potential buyers arrange a pre purchase building inspection. This allows a professional inspector to thoroughly assess the condition of the property and identify any structural or other defects. The structural integrity report they provide is a key factor in deciding whether to proceed with the purchase.
For Inner West Property Inspections, carrying out accurate and comprehensive pre purchase inspections is our specialty. When inspecting properties in the Inner West Sydney region, our qualified inspectors evaluate many elements that can impact on structural soundness. Some of the main factors we consider are outlined below.
Building Age and Construction Type
The age of a building and its construction type will influence its structural condition. Older properties that used timber framing may be more prone to sagging floors, walls out of plumb, and deterioration issues. Newer concrete and brick dwellings are generally more robust. However, defects in materials or poor workmanship can still occur. Knowing the age and construction allows our inspectors to look for common problems.
Foundations
A building’s foundations carry the entire weight of the structure, so their condition is crucial. Signs of uneven foundations may include sloping floors, cracked walls, and doors or windows that stick. The soil type the foundations are laid on also matters. Reactive clay soils can potentially lead to ongoing movement. Our inspectors check the perimeter of the building and underfloor where accessible. They look for cracks, damage, dampness and indications of subsidence.
Roof Structure
The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of a property’s structure. Factors like age, design faults, storm damage or poor maintenance can all contribute to weaknesses. Warning signs include sagging ceilings, cracked cornices and ceiling roses. Roof voids are checked for broken rafters, collapsing sarking and termites or rot. The condition of roof cladding like tiles or iron is also assessed.
Termite Damage
Australia’s coastal climate makes termites a major problem. The timber frames of affected buildings can be extensively damaged before any external evidence is obvious. Telltale signs are mud tubes on walls, distorted door frames or uneven wooden flooring. Inspections include using moisture meters to check for excess moisture that encourages termites. Borer damage from other wood eating insects is also looked for.
Water Damage
Exposure to water is another threat to structural integrity. Leaking roofs, pipes or stormwater overflows can cause deterioration of timber. Peeling paint, dampness and swollen doors or floorboards help identify leaks. High damp levels recorded during inspections should be further investigated. If not addressed, ongoing moisture damage can lead to decay and expensive repairs.
Cracking to Masonry/Brick Elements
Small cracks in walls, brickwork and rendered surfaces are common as buildings shift slightly over time. But more serious stepped, diagonal or very wide cracks require further assessment. They may indicate sinking or movement of footings. Expansive clay soils, nearby tree roots or poor drainage can all contribute. Where cracking appears excessive, we will recommend getting a structural engineer’s appraisal.
Previous Repairs and Renovations
Many older properties undergo renovations and extensions over their lifespan. Owners may also attempt DIY structural repairs. But if these are not carried out appropriately, they can compromise strength. Poor quality concreting, inadequate support lintels and beams, and removals of load-bearing walls are some examples. Inspecting repairs helps determine if they were done correctly or need revisiting.
In summarising, Inner West Property Inspections employs fully qualified inspectors to evaluate all visible structural elements. Their detailed reports provide potential buyers with confidence regarding a property’s construction integrity, or awareness of issues needing remediation. For an obligation-free quote on your next pre purchase building inspection in Sydney’s Inner West, contact us today. Our experience delivers peace of mind for your upcoming property purchase.