Whether you’re looking to buy a new home, sell a property or simply ensure that your building is safe and up to code, getting a building inspection is a vital step. In Adelaide, Australia, building inspections are essential for both buyers and sellers, as they provide valuable information that can inform important decisions about a property.
Key Takeaways:
- Building inspections can identify property defects that should be remedied, either for upkeep, resale or before a purchase.
- Plumbing and gas inspections focus on finding leaks, inefficiencies and safety hazards.
- Inspections may make the property safer, save Adelaide homeowners money or give buyers/sellers a better idea of the property value before a sale.
A Guide to Building Inspections: Adelaide and Surrounding Areas
In this article, we discuss what building inspections entail and how to go about getting building inspections. Adelaide property owners, buyers and sellers can rest easier with a detailed report on minor and major defects in their property.
What Is a Building Inspection?
A building inspection is a thorough examination of the physical structure and systems of a building. It is typically conducted by a licensed and qualified building inspector who will assess the condition of the building’s major components, such as the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, gas or HVAC systems.
The purpose of a building inspection is to identify any defects, damages, or safety hazards that may be present in the building and assess the overall quality of the construction.
The Specifics of Plumbing and Gas Building Inspections
A plumbing and gas building inspection is a specific type of building inspection that focuses on the plumbing and gas systems of a building. It is an important step in the buying or selling process of a property and in maintaining the safety and functionality of a building.
These inspections are typically conducted by qualified inspectors with plumbing and gas expertise.
A plumbing and gas building inspection is particularly important for older properties, as plumbing and gas systems often deteriorate over time and become less efficient, potentially leading to costly repairs and leaks. For new constructions, it is crucial to ensure all plumbing and gas systems are installed correctly and up to code.
Types of Building Inspections
There are various types of building inspections. Adelaide residents may benefit most from the ones we discuss below.
Pre-purchase Building Inspection
A pre-purchase building inspection for plumbing and gas is an assessment of the plumbing and gas system of a property prior to purchase.
During the pre-purchase building inspection, the plumber or inspector usually examines visible plumbing and gas components, including pipes, fixtures, drains and waste pipes. They also assess the age and overall condition of the systems, including any signs of wear and tear, rust or corrosion.
Pre-purchase building inspections may include water pressure and temperature tests and check for leaks, blockages or other issues. Pre-purchase inspections are necessary because a house or other property is a significant investment, and you want to know about any major defects before you sign a contract.
Camera Inspection
An internal drain camera inspection is a process of inspecting the inside of a drain or sewer line using a specialised camera attached to a flexible cable.
During the inspection, the technician inserts the camera into the drain or sewer line through an access point. As the camera travels through the pipe, it transmits high-resolution video footage to a monitor or a recording device, allowing the technician to visually inspect the pipe’s condition and identify blockages, leaks, or other issues.
The camera can also locate the exact location of problems, such as cracks or breaks in the pipe or tree roots invading the pipe. This helps determine the most appropriate course of action, whether it be replacing the damaged section or clearing out the blockage.
An internal drain camera inspection is a highly effective way to diagnose and address plumbing issues during building inspections. Adelaide homeowners may save time and money with camera inspection services that prevent the need for more invasive measures, like digging.
Water Leak Inspection
Water leak inspections are crucial to maintaining a property’s plumbing system. A water leak can cause significant damage if left unattended, including mould growth, water damage to walls and floors, and higher water bills. A leak inspection can help detect leaks early, minimising damage and repair costs.
A licensed plumber or a building inspector with plumbing expertise usually performs water leak inspections. Adelaide plumbers examine the property’s plumbing system, looking for signs of leaks, such as wet spots on walls or ceilings, mould growth and unusual smells.
Gas Leak Inspection
Gas leak inspections are a critical part of maintaining the safety of a property. Gas leaks can be dangerous and even fatal, so detecting and addressing any potential gas leaks as soon as possible is essential. A gas leak inspection involves thoroughly examining a property’s gas lines and appliances to identify any leaks or potential hazards.
Gas leaks can be dangerous and should be taken seriously. If you think you have a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately and contact the gas supplier or emergency services.
Eco-Friendly Inspection
Eco-friendly inspections are building inspections that focus on identifying ways to improve a property’s energy efficiency and reduce its environmental impact. An eco-friendly inspection aims to help property owners reduce their carbon footprint, save money on energy bills and improve the overall sustainability of their property.
During an inspection of this type, the inspector focuses on identifying ways to reduce water and gas usage and improve the overall efficiency of a property’s water and gas systems.
Pest Inspection
Pests such as termites, rodents and insects can cause significant damage to a property’s structure and pose health hazards. Therefore, it is essential to conduct regular pest inspections to identify any potential infestations and take corrective actions.
By identifying and treating infestations with pest inspections, property owners can help safeguard the integrity of the building and the well-being of those who live or work on the property.
Pre-sale Inspection
A pre-sale inspection, also known as a seller’s inspection, is an assessment of a property’s condition conducted before the property is put on the market. The purpose of a pre-sale inspection is to identify repairs that may need to be handled before the property is listed to avoid any potential surprises or delays during the sales process.
When it comes to plumbing and gas, a pre-sale inspection typically involves a thorough examination of the plumbing and gas systems. The inspector looks for leaks, damage or signs of wear and tear and ensures that the plumbing and gas systems are up to code and compliant with local regulations.
Asbestos Inspection
An asbestos inspection examines a property to identify materials containing asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral commonly used in building materials until the 1980s, when its health risks became widely known. Asbestos fibres, when inhaled, can cause serious health problems.
During an asbestos inspection, a licensed inspector checks the property for materials with asbestos, such as insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials and textured ceilings. The inspector takes samples of materials suspected of containing asbestos for testing.
Why Is a Building Inspection Necessary?
Building inspections are useful for both buyers and sellers of properties, as they provide valuable information about the condition of a building. They’re also essential to the ongoing care of residential and commercial properties.
Pre-Purchase Inspections for Buyers
With pre-purchase building inspections, buyers can uncover hidden defects or issues that impact value or safety. Adelaide property inspections may reveal minor issues, such as a leaking faucet or a loose doorknob, for which the buyer and seller can negotiate a solution. For example, the seller may agree to fix the issue before closing, or the buyer may request a credit to cover the cost of repairs.
If the issue is significant, such as a structural problem or a major issue with the plumbing or electrical systems, the buyer may have the option to back out of the sale. Alternatively, the buyer may negotiate with the seller to lower the price or to include repairs or upgrades as part of the sale agreement.
Property Inspections for Sellers
For sellers, a building inspection can help identify issues that should be addressed before putting the property on the market, potentially increasing the property’s value and appeal to buyers.
Overall, building inspections help guarantee the safety and longevity of a building, as well as protect the financial interests of buyers and sellers alike.
How Are Inspections Performed?
During a building inspection, the inspector typically examines the building’s interior and exterior, including walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors. They also assess the condition of installed appliances, such as hot water systems, stoves and air conditioners.
Building inspectors document their findings and provide a detailed building inspection report outlining any issues identified during the inspection.
Common Problems Uncovered During Building Inspections
Building inspections can uncover a wide range of problems.
Some common problems uncovered during a building inspection include:
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks can be dangerous and may cause fire or explosion hazards.
Water Leaks
Water leaks can cause damage to the property and may also promote the growth of mould and mildew.
Blocked Drains
Blocked drains can cause water to back up and may lead to water damage or other problems.
Rusty Pipes
Rusty pipes can indicate that the property’s plumbing system is old or in need of repair. Rusty pipes can also lead to leaks or burst pipes.
Inadequate Ventilation
Inadequate ventilation can cause serious health problems or even death.
Non-compliant Plumbing and Gas Systems
Non-compliant systems may need to be repaired or upgraded to ensure safety and prevent potential legal issues.
In summary, building inspections can reveal various problems related to plumbing and gas systems and other issues. Identifying and addressing defects early on can help prevent costly repairs and secure the safety of those who live or work on the property.
What Happens If the Inspection Uncovers a Problem?
When building inspections uncover a problem, the next steps depend on the nature and severity of the issue. First, the building inspectors should provide a detailed report the owner can use to address the problem before it worsens and causes further damage to the property or poses a safety hazard to occupants.
If the issue is minor, like the example of a leaking faucet or a loose doorknob, the owner may be able to fix it themselves or hire a professional.
If it is more significant, such as a structural problem or safety hazards with the plumbing, gas or electrical systems, the owner may need to hire a professional to assess it and provide a repair quote. The owner may need to prioritise the repair or even evacuate the property until the problem is resolved.
Sometimes, the owner may need to obtain permits or comply with building codes or regulations to address the issue. Failure to address the problem could lead to fines or legal action.
FAQs About Building Inspections in Adelaide
Property owners and buyers often have a lot of questions about having building and pest inspections or a pre-purchase inspection in Adelaide. We answer a few questions frequently asked of building inspectors below.
Should a Building and Pest Inspection Be Performed on a Commercial Property?
Yes, a building and pest inspection should be performed on a commercial property in most cases. Like residential properties, commercial properties are subject to wear and tear and develop problems over time. A building and pest inspection can help identify issues, such as structural damage, pest infestations or environmental hazards before they become major crises.
Commercial properties are often subject to stricter regulations and requirements than residential properties, and a building and pest inspection report can help ensure compliance. For example, a pest infestation in a food service establishment could result in a health code violation and loss of business, so pest inspections can be vital to success.
Good building inspectors specialising in plumbing and gas can also find major and minor defects affecting utility costs and long-term property value. Finding ways to qualify for government rebates related to energy efficiency is also possible.
What’s Included in a Comprehensive Inspection Report?
Comprehensive inspection reports typically include a detailed property assessment, including issues identified during building inspections. Adelaide homeowners can expect a report with several components, though the exact contents depend on the inspection type.
Some common elements included in a comprehensive inspection report are:
- A summary of the inspection findings and a general assessment of the property’s condition.
- A detailed list of defects, issues or concerns identified during the inspection, including photographs or other documentation supporting the findings.
- A description of inspected systems or components.
- A recommendation for any repairs or maintenance to address the issues identified during the inspection.
- An estimate of the cost of repairs or maintenance, if applicable.
- Recommendations for further testing or evaluation of specific systems.
- A description of any safety hazards or environmental concerns identified during the inspection.
- A report on compliance with local building codes or regulations, if applicable.
- Any warranty or guarantee provided by the inspector or inspection company.
A comprehensive inspection report should provide a clear and detailed picture of the property’s condition, highlighting any issues or concerns that need to be addressed to ensure the property’s safety, functionality and value.
Why Should Adelaide Homebuyers Choose Mayfair Building Group for Their Building Inspections?
Mayfair Building Group have a solid reputation as building inspectors in Adelaide. The company is well-known in the building industry for providing quality renovations, plumbing and gasfitting work and helping property holders save money and rectify problems and potential safety hazards before they become major issues.
Whether you need a pre-purchase inspection, a water or gas leak inspection, or to look for ways to be more environmentally friendly while saving money on energy bills, Mayfair is an excellent option for building inspection services.
Learn more about the reliable building inspection service offered by Mayfair Building Group by clicking here or by contacting Mayfair directly for specific information about the range of services our building inspectors in Adelaide provide.