- All buyers are encouraged to include a building, pest and working order clauses before settling on their new property
- Inspections can benefit sellers too - it does show honesty
Most homebuyers and investors feel comfortable having a home inspection done before settling a deal on their new property.
In fact, it is a recommendation to all buyers to include a Building, Pest and Working Order Clause which looks this:
- This Offer is Subject to a Building & Pest Inspection Clause in 7 – 10 days
- This Offer is Subject to a Working Order Clause for All Electrical, Gas and Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings
REIWA has standard annexures you could obtain from their website or every agency should have their versions of the annexures which could be used to protect your rights as purchasers. Interstate counterparts also have similar information available.
It is important to note then when hiring a third party inspector, we highly recommend them to be licensed and provide examples of their reports prior to engaging their services.
What building inspectors look for
Building inspectors primarily look for signs of problems that could cause structural damage or safety concerns for the prospective buyers.
This may include:
- Ceilings and walls will be checked for defects and signs of structural damage or water leakage.
- Roof leaks or other defects either by walking on the roof or from a ladder.
- Doors, windows, and decks on the outside will be examined for breakages and maintenance.
- The attic or roof cavity will also be inspected for similar problems including ventilation and insulation.
- The basement and crawl space are an equally important part of the inspection. The foundation walls are inspected to ensure there are no critical weaknesses, signs of water intrusion and other defects.
- Driveways and walkways may be inspected.
- Proper rainwater disposal with regards to damage on the house’s foundation.
- The home’s electrical system for shorts or other wiring problems will also be inspected. They test for proper grounding, capacity and size of the electrical panel, and unsafe wiring materials.
- They will inspect all fixtures, toilets, and drains for damage and proper function.
- Heating and air conditioning systems will be checked for functionality and safety. They determine whether or not heating and cooling are distributed to all areas that they should be.
Why have a structural inspection done? (a seller’s perspective…)
A structural inspection helps to ensure that the sale of your home goes smoothly.
The inspector will thoroughly check out your home and notify you of any problem areas that need rectifying or touching up.
This goes a long way in helping you stage your home to its best advantage.
All areas that need fixing will be pointed out and hence make your work easier in having them upgraded or styled up for best value before putting your house on the market.
With a structural report in hand, the seller portrays honesty and good will. A bad, or worse, no inspection can be a deal-breaker for potential buyers since it can give the impression of dishonesty on the seller’s part, even if the seller was genuinely unaware of the problems at hand.
If the property is not sold “ AS IS “ which is generally the case with the auction strategy, then it will be subject to building, pest and working order clause.
In knowing the shortfalls of the home such as major structural concerns, termite infestation and non working chattels and appliances in the home – you can prepare for the most vital part of the sale, the remaining funds in your back pocket to take you to the next stage of your life.
A home inspection is of great importance both to the buyer as well as to you the seller since it reduces many headaches and makes your home staging and home pricing much easier to do. It also assures that you get the best and true value of your home from the sale.
