Building and Timber Pest Inspection Report

Building and Timber PestInspection ReportInspection Date: Tue, 27 Oct 2020Property Address: 7 Adelong St, Sutherland NSW 2232,

Australia

ContentsThe Parties

Section A Results of inspection - summary

Section B General

Section C Accessibility

Section D Significant Items

Section E Additional comments

Section F Annexures to this report

Definitions to help you better understand this report

Terms on which this report was prepared

Special conditions or instructions

If you have any queries with this report or require further information, pleasedo not hesitate to contact the person who carried out the inspection.This Report has been prepared in accordance with the pre-inspectionagreement in place between the parties set out below, which set out thepurpose and scope of the inspection, and the significant items that will bereported on. This Report reflects the opinion of the inspector based on thedocuments that have been provided. This Report should be read in itsentirety and in the context of the agreed scope of Services. If there is adiscrepancy between the summary findings and the body of the Report, thebody of the Report will prevail. We recommend that you should promptlyimplement any recommendation or advice in this Report, includingrecommendations of further inspections by another specialist. If you haveany queries with this Report or require further information, please do nothesitate to contact the person who carried out the inspection. This Reportcontains reference to material that is the copyright of Standards Australiareproduced under agreement with SAI Global to Jim's Building Inspections(Australia).

Original Inspection Date: Tue, 27 Oct 2020

Modified Date: Wed, 28 Oct 2020

The Parties

Name of the Client: Benjamin and Nicole Knox

Name of the Principal(If Applicable):

Job Address: 7 Adelong St, Sutherland NSW 2232, Australia

Client's Email Address: [email protected]

Client's Phone Number: 0408 253 832

Consultant: David Ollerenshaw Ph: 0418 606 666 Email: [email protected]

186441C

Company Name: Jim's Building Inspections (Sutherland)

Company Address and Postcode: Gymea 2227

Company Email: [email protected]

Company Contact Numbers: 0418 606 666

Special conditions or instructions

A report may be conditional on information provided by the person, agents or employees of the personrequesting the report, apparent concealment of possible defects and a range of other factors

The following apply: Please read all defect statements and pictures in full to understand this reportcompletely.

- The Pre- Inspection Agreement which includes the extent of reporting, limitations and exclusionsmust be read and agreed to prior to viewing this report.- This report was commissioned for the sole use of the ‘Client’ and liability does not extend to any thirdparties. Any third party not named on page 3 of this report, acting or relying on this report, in whole orin part, does so entirety at their own risk.- This report is only valid as at the date of the inspection, any defects found or incurred after this datecannot be guaranteed.

To help protect against financial loss, it is essential that the building owner immediately control or rectifyany evidence of destructive timber pest activity or damage identified in this inspection report. TheClient should further investigate any high risk area where access was not gained. It is strongly advisedthat appropriate steps be taken to remove, rectify or monitor any evidence of conditions conducive totimber pest attack.

To help minimise the risk of any future loss, the Client should consider the following options to furtherprotect their investment against timber pest infestation;Undertake thorough regular inspections at intervals not exceeding twelve months or more frequentinspections where the risk of timber pest attack is high or the building type is susceptible to attack. Tofurther reduce the risk of subterranean termite attack implement a management program inaccordance with Australian Standard AS 3660. This may include the installation of a monitoring and/orbaiting system, or chemical and/or physical management system. However, AS 3660 stresses thatsubterranean termites can bridge or breach management systems and inspection zones and thatthorough regular inspections of the building are necessary.

It is recommended that a second manhole be installed in an appropriate location in the ceiling of theproperty, to gain full access for regular inspections to all areas of the roof void.

It is recommended that access to the subfloor of the property be created by whatever means, soregular inspections to the subfloor be carried out. At present this area is not covered within this report.

This report should be read in its entirety, including all defect statements referenced by pictures in full, tounderstand the report completely. Should you have any difficulty in understanding anything containedwithin this report then you should contact the inspector and have the matter explained to you prior toacting on this report.

Due to no chemical termite management system installed, low clearance and poor or no access tosome areas of the roof void and subfloor and the amount of limitations and obstructions (as listed inthe front of the report), the risk of undetected defects is higher to these areas. A further invasiveinspection to these areas is highly recommended and access be gained to all areas for a completeinspection of the property.

The installation of a post construction chemical termite management system is highly recommended tobe installed as soon as possible. Consult a suitably qualified termite expert for further advice oninstallation types and pricing and check if your house insurance covers termite damage.

The rectification of any safety hazards and major defects should be attended to immediately, while therectification of all the other defects in this report should be conducted as soon as possible so that theydo not turn into bigger defects over time.

It is also highly recommended that a licensed Electrician & Plumber rectify any issues and check overany newly purchased property with the new owners to reduce any Electrical & Plumbing problems inthe future and to instruct new owners on proper use, care and maintenance of all electrical & plumbingitems to prolong the items life and safety and help to protect your investment for the future.

Section A Results of Inspection - summary

A summary of your inspection is outlined below; please also refer to theReport.

Found Not Found

Safety Hazard

Major Defect

Minor Defect

Live Timber Pest Activity

Timber Pest Damage

Conditions Conducive to Timber Pest Activity

Evidence of fungal decay activity and/or damage

Evidence of wood borer activity and/or damage

Evidence of a previous termite management program

Overall Condition (Building)

In summary, the building, compared to others of similar age and construction is in poor condition withsafety hazards identified. Major and minor defects were also found.

Overall Condition (Timber Pest)

In summary, the building, compared to others of similar age and construction is highly susceptible totimber pests. A termite treatment is required.

Section B General

General description of the property

Building Type Residential

Company or Strata title No

Floor Brick Stumps or Piers, Timber with concrete areas

Furnished Furnished

No. of bedrooms 3

Occupied Occupied

Orientation South

Other Building Elements Garage, Fence - Post and Rail Construction, Fence- Fabricated Metal Fence, Water Tanks

Other Timber Bldg Elements

Fascias, Veranda Posts, Architraves, Door Frames,Internal Joinery, External Joinery, Window Frames,Floorboards, Doors, Skirting Boards, ArchitecturalTrims

Roof Timber Framed, Pitched, Tiled

Storeys Single

Walls Fibre Cement Sheets, Cavity Brick

Weather Overcast

Section C Accessibility

Areas Inspected

The following areas were inspected. As documented in your Pre-Inspection Agreement, obstructionsand limitations to the accessible areas for inspection are to be expected in any inspection. Refer alsoto our listing of obstructions and limitations.

- Wall Exterior

- Exterior

- Roof Void - Part

- Interior

- Gardens

- Fencing

- Trees

The inspection excludes areas which are affected by obstructions, where access is limited or unsafe.We do not move obstructions and defects, timber pest activity or conditions conducive to these maynot be obvious unless they are removed.

Inaccessible Areas

The following areas were inaccessible:

- Roof Exterior.

- Areas of skillion or flat roof - no access

- Areas of low roof pitch preventing full inspection.

- Ceiling Cavity - Part.

- Subfloor due to lack of access.

Any areas which are inaccessible at the time of inspection present a high risk for undetected defectsand timber pest activity and conditions conducive to these. The client is advised to make inaccessibleareas accessible wherever possible for re-inspection.

Obstructions and Limitations

Building defects, termite and timber pest activity as well as conditions conducive to both, may beconcealed by the following obstructions which prevented full inspection:

- Above safe working height

- Degree of roof incline too steep for safe access

- Solar Panels

- Furniture

- Fixed ceilings

- Roofing material is friable or brittle

- Roofing material is a slip hazard - not safe to access

- Appliances and equipment

- Floor coverings

- Ceiling linings

- Areas of skillion or flat roof - no access

- Areas of low roof pitch preventing full inspection

- Pipework

- External finished ground level

- Vegetation

- Stored items obscured almost all of the inspectable area.

The presence of obstructions increases the risk of undetected building defects, timber pest activity andconditions conducive to these. The client should make arrangement to remove obstructions whereever possible and re-inspect these areas urgently.

Undetected defect risk (Building)

A risk rating is provided to help you understand the degree to which accessibility issues and thepresence of obstructions have limited the scope of the inspection

The risk of undetected defects is: High

When the risk of undetected defects is medium or high we strongly recommend further inspectiononce access is provided or if the obstruction can be removed. Contact us for further advice.

Undetected defect risk (Timber Pest)

A risk rating is provided to help you understand the degree to which accessibility issues and thepresence of obstructions have limited the scope of the inspection

The risk of undetected defects is: High

When the risk of undetected defects is medium or high we strongly recommend further inspectiononce access is provided or if the obstruction can be removed. Contact us for further advice.


Safety Hazard

Finding 1.01

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Exterior wallsFinding: Asbestos - Suspected ACM Identified on SiteInformation: Reporting on Asbestos is outside the Scope of this Report. This suspected defect is

highlighted as a caution only. We suspect, based on our experience in the buildingindustry, that there is a higher risk of the identified building element containingasbestos.

As Asbestos Reporting is outside the scope of this report, we advise that you considera separate Asbestos Inspection and Condition Audit, which can include the taking ofsamples for definitive confirmation of the presence of Asbestos.

In the interim, the client is advised to act with caution, especially when considering anydamage to building materials general wear and tear renovations extensions demolitionand general maintenance activities due to the suspected presence of Asbestos.

Finding 1.02

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Roof ExteriorFinding: ACM - Suspected Roof Sheeting - Poor ConditionInformation: The roof sheeting is suspected to be an asbestos-contain material (ACM). The roof

sheeting appears to be in a poor condition and shows evidence of damage anddeterioration. Damaged and deteriorated ACMs have a higher probability of releasingairborne asbestos fibres, creating a significant health safety risk.

The removal of a sample for lab analysis to confirm the presence of ACM is stronglyadvised. It is recommended to assume the presence of ACM, unless evidence of a lab

analysis of a sample proves otherwise. Removal by a Licensed Asbestos Removal firmwould be the only option recommended.

No works should be carried out to the roof sheeting or associated building elementswithout further specialist advice.

Finding 1.03

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Internal AreasFinding: Asbestos - Suspected ACM Identified on SiteInformation: Reporting on Asbestos is outside the Scope of this Report. This suspected defect is

highlighted as a caution only. We suspect, based on our experience in the buildingindustry, that there is a higher risk of the identified building element containingasbestos.

As Asbestos Reporting is outside the scope of this report, we advise that you considera separate Asbestos Inspection and Condition Audit, which can include the taking ofsamples for definitive confirmation of the presence of Asbestos.

In the interim, the client is advised to act with caution, especially when considering anydamage to building materials general wear and tear renovations extensions demolitionand general maintenance activities due to the suspected presence of Asbestos.

Finding 1.04

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Roof VoidFinding: Electrical junction box - MissingInformation: Several wiring joins in the roof space are not adequately protected by a junction box.

Junction boxes provide a second insulation barrier to adequately seal off and protectthe wires, increasing the safety of the immediate environment and ensuring that thewiring is not damaged.

The absence of junction boxes in the roof space poses as an electrical safety hazard,providing risk of electrocution. It appears as though wiring in this area has beencompleted to a substandard level of workmanship, evidenced by the lack of adequatewiring protection.

Appointment of a licensed electrician is highly advised to provide additional informationon the risks of unprotected wiring and to install junction boxes and any other elementsas required. Such works should be carried out as a matter of urgency; until this time,any persons within the roof space should exercise a high level of caution.

Major Defect

Finding 2.01

Building: Main BuildingLocation: All AreasFinding: Cracked roof tiles causing ceiling Water damagedInformation: Water damage to the ceiling lining is generally an indication of excessive moisture

being present in the roof void, usually via a leak to the roof covering.

Where water damage is evident to the ceiling, the primary requirement is to identifyand rectify the source of the leak. At the time of the inspection, there were severalcracks in the tiles evident. A roofing tiler should be appointed as soon as possible toidentify the leaks and perform rectification works as necessary, ensuring the waterdamage is restricted.

Once the leak is repaired, consultation with relevant tradespeople, including plasterersand painters, is advised. Rectification works may include replacement of ceiling liningor minor repainting, depending on the extent of the damage.

Minor Defect

Finding 3.01

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Exterior walls - frontFinding: Brickwork - Cracking noticeableInformation: There were several cracks evident to brick facade.

Noticeable cracks are a common occurrence in external brickwork and are a likelyresult of age expected building movement, general expansion and contraction ofbuilding materials in different weather conditions, site drainage as well as tree rootsadjacent to the building are often a common cause. Noticeable cracks in brickworkmay develop if left unattended, with potential for necessitating major remedial works orreplacement of the brickwork.

It is highly advised that a qualified bricklayer be appointed to provide necessary worksto cracked brickwork to prevent any further damage. Such works should beconducted as soon as possible.

Always monitor these cracks and contact a building inspector should cracks widen,lengthen, or become more numerous.

Finding 3.02

Building: Main BuildingLocation: GarageFinding: Garage - DeterioratedInformation: It was noted at the time of inspection, that the garage to the rear of the property have

deteriorated. Typically these type of structures deteriorate due to age and or wear, rotand or rust which is generally expected for a structure of this age, due to prolongedexposure to weather conditions. Sometimes inadequate installation or maintenancecan be to blame.

It is of the inspectors opinion, that the wall and roof sheeting as well as the rottedtimber frame has reached a stage where the only recommendation would be toremove and rebuild.

Finding 3.03

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Yard - BackFinding: External Wc - Not operatingInformation: Non-operational items should be addressed to ensure that the full function of the

building structure is available.

Repair and/or replacement of the non working toilet is recommended. It is highlyrecommended that a licensed plumber be engaged to perform any necessary works.

Finding 3.04

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Laundry areaFinding: Tiles - Cracked or damagedInformation: Cracking was evident to the tiling in this area at the time of inspection. This area is

frequently exposed to water, allowing potential for water penetration into adjoiningsections of walls or flooring.

If left unmanaged, water penetration to these areas may lead to subsequent waterdamage, which is likely necessitate repair work to affected building elements.

A tiling contractor should be appointed to ensure that no further water damageoccurs. The re-application of silicone and grouting throughout remaining tile work isalso advised, to further protect the area against water penetration.

The structural integrity of the flooring structure was not able to be visually inspecteddue to no access to the subfloor, it is of the inspectors opinion that the bouncy floor isa major contributor to these damaged floor tiles.

Finding 3.05

Building: Main BuildingLocation: All Internal AreasFinding: Rising dampInformation: Rising damp describes the upward movement of water in low sections of building

elements (e.g. walls) by capillary action - the movement of water through porousmaterials such as bricks, sandstone or mortar, this is very common in the properties ofthis age.

Rising damp is generally managed by the installation of a damp proof course duringconstruction. A Damp Proof Course (DPC) is an impermeable barrier at the base of thewall above ground level. However, many 19th Century buildings have no damp courseinstalled, or the materials have failed.

Left unmanaged, rising damp can lead to health problems resulting from mouldgrowth that has started to form, this can have major implications on affected buildingelements, including wall finishes like paint and hard set plasterwork.

The first step in addressing rising damp is to diagnose the cause, this will requireaccess to the subfloor. The identified cause should be addressed first beforeaddressing the appearance and other defects which have resulted from the risingdamp. If the original cause is not resolved, further cases of damp are likely to ensue,resulting in secondary defects.

Consultation with a remedial builder who specialises in rising damp is advisedimmediately to identify the cause of the damp and perform remedial works asrequired.

Finding 3.06

Building: Main BuildingLocation: BathroomFinding: Sealant - DamagedInformation: It was noted on inspection that sealant or grout is degraded to the tiled shower alcove

and or other areas of the bathroom.

Different materials and floor areas move at different rates, generally causing crackingto grout at this point. A flexible sealant is required to allow for expected expansion andcontraction, while keeping the joint water tight and protective of all associated buildingmaterials.

There appears to be excessive mould to the sealant and grout which will likely requirescraping out and replacement.

Flexible and mould resistant materials should be applied to affected areas to preventany subsequent water damage that is likely to occur. Regular maintenance andreplacement of damage or missing sealant and grout is highly recommended to thewet areas, as this is a regular wear and tear defect. Sealant and grouting in areas thatcome into regular contact with water should be maintained for the long term care ofyour property.

A sealant specialist or tiling contractor should be appointed to complete these worksas soon as possible

Finding 3.07

Building: Main BuildingLocation: BathroomFinding: Missing door handleInformation: It was noted that the door handle was in this areas was missing at the time of

inspection.

A qualified carpenter or general handyperson may be appointed to installed themissing door handle, the timeline for this work is at the clients discretion.

Finding 3.08

Building: Main BuildingLocation: All Internal AreasFinding: Bouncy floorsInformation: The internal flooring in this area was identified as being bouncy at the time of

inspection. A bouncy floor surface generally presents as a discernible change in levelas they are walked across, in noisy or creaking flooring, or in consequent movement ofsurrounding furniture and fixtures.

Bouncy floors generally indicate that the floorboards or the subfloor structures arecoming loose from the joists that they are installed on. Bouncy flooring may also be the

result of gaps between piers and timber bearers which require packing. Access to thesubfloor was not possible at the time of inspection and therefore the course of thebouncy floors cannot be verified.

Access to the subfloor is required to determine if the cause of the bouncy floors arefrom subsided pierss, wood rot or timber pest damage.

Live Timber Pest Activity

No evidence was found

Timber Pest Damage


Conditions Conducive to Timber Pest Activity

Finding 6.01

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Meter BoxFinding: No evidence of a termite management system in place.Information: The application of a post-construction chemical termite barrier is highly recommended

for all properties, particularly if live termite activity has been found in the areapreviously. Such barriers are highly effective in preventing termite attack on any timberbuilding elements throughout the property.

A durable notice should be placed in the switchboard unit to indicate current termitebarriers. At the time of inspection, it appeared as though no termite managementsystem has been installed, with no evidence to suggest preventative works takingplace.

The client may consider gaining further advice from a pest controller as to the costs

and procedures involved with this application. It is recommended that obtaining suchadvice be a short-term priority.

Finding 6.02

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Roof ExteriorFinding: Roof gutter - SaggingInformation: Sections of the roof guttering was identified as sagging during inspection of the

exterior roof. Sagging roof gutters are likely a result of failures of fastenings or fixings,but may also indicate inadequate roof support such as wood rot to the end of therafters.

Where roof guttering is sagging, inadequate roof drainage is likely to occur. Thepresence of excessive moisture around the perimeter of the building will lead to andenvironment very conducive to termite activity.

Repairs, re-fixing or replacement of the gutter roof by a roof plumber is requiredimmediately.

Finding 6.03

Building: Main Building

Location: Exterior wallsFinding: Down-pipe not connectedInformation: At the time of inspection the down pipes were not connected to the stormwater

system. Leaving the ground in this area susceptible to mould and mildew.

Moisture to the ground creates an environment very conducive to termite activity.

A licensed plumber should be engaged to connect pipe work to avoid avoid futuredamage to the building.

Finding 6.04

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Roof VoidFinding: Gravity-Fed HWS - DisconnectedInformation: It was noted at the time of inspection that a disconnected gravity-fed hot water

system (HWS) remains in this area.

Despite this plumbing structure being unused, it is likely to be storing residual water,and is therefore susceptible to rust and corrosion. If allowed to continue, rust andcorrosion is likely to lead to damage to adjoining building elements, and may alsomake the area susceptible to termite or timber pest activity.

While it is a costly exercise to remove the disused gravity-fed HWS, it is advisable inthe short-term future to prevent any further damage to the area. Further consultationwith a licensed plumber is required to gain further advice on removal of the structure.

Evidence of fungal decay activity and/or damage

Finding 7.01

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Front FencingFinding: Fencing - Wood RotInformation: Timber posts and rails show evidence of wood rot. Wood rot, also known as Fungal

Decay, occurs when timbers and other cellulose building materials are exposed todamp conditions on an ongoing basis. This could be the result of exposure toweathering over a prolonged period of time, or the attraction of excessive moisturefrom other abutting building materials.

Wood rot is often associated with general damp problems and is evidenced by a'musty' smell or mould and mildew occurring on surfaces. If left unmanaged, dampconditions can lead to further health problems and the decay of timbers will continue.

Early intervention and regular maintenance, will prolong the useful life of these fencingmaterial.

A qualified carpenter or fencing Contrator may be required to replace affected buildingmaterials depending on the extent of the damage.

Finding 7.02

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Exterior wallsFinding: Wood rot to most external timber’sInformation: This building element shows evidence of wood rot. Wood rot, also known as Fungal

Decay, occurs when timbers and other cellulose building materials are exposed todamp conditions on an ongoing basis. This could be the result of exposure toweathering over a prolonged period of time, or the attraction of excessive moisturefrom other abutting building materials.

Wood rot is often associated with general damp problems and is evidenced by a'musty' smell or mould and mildew occurring on surfaces. If left unmanaged, dampconditions can lead to further health problems and the decay of timbers will continue.

Early intervention and regular maintenance, particularly of exterior timbers, will prolongthe useful life of these building elements.

A qualified carpenter or registered builder may be required to replace affected buildingmaterials.

Finding 7.03

Building: Main BuildingLocation: Exterior wallsFinding: Wood rot - WindowsInformation: Wood rot was found to be affecting external windows. Wood rot, also known as

Fungal Decay, occurs when timbers and other cellulose building materials are exposedto damp conditions on an ongoing basis.

It is likely that this wood rot has developed as a result of frequent exposure to rain andother weather conditions. It is suspected that failure to maintain the window framesover a prolonged period has resulted in them deteriorating at an accelerated rate,increasing their susceptibility to the development of wood rot.

Repair and/or replacement of affected window frames may be a necessary step inprotecting surrounding building elements from such deterioration. Remedial worksshould be performed by a qualified carpenter or registered builder as soon as possibleto prevent any further damage.

Evidence of wood borer activity and/or damage



D4 Further Inspections

We advise that you seek additional specialist inspections from a qualified and, where appropriate,licensed

- As identified in summary and defect statements

Jim's Building Inspections can put you in contact with qualified and licensed providers of these andother trades services. Please contact your inspector for recommendations, or visit www.jims.net.

D5 Conclusion - Assessment of overall condition of property

- Building:The building compared to others of a similar age and construction appears to be in poor condition. Itdoes have safety hazards, major defects and a few minor maintenance issues that will require attentionand remedial maintenance. Left unmanaged some of these defects may become costly in the futureand develop into more major defects over time.

Please be aware that limitation's did affect the inspection, with areas of low clearance and poor accessmeant a complete inspection of the roof space was not possible and areas of furniture, stored itemsand garden vegetation meant some areas was obstructed.

No access to subfloor was possible at the time of inspection, therefore the subfloor area forms are nopart of this report.

PEST:All areas of the dwelling are checked with particular attention paid to wet areas which were closelyassessed to check for excessive levels of moisture and temperature anomalies.

No evidence of termite activity was found inside the house at the time of the inspection.

In an attempt to identify the presence of hidden timber pest activity, a variety of techniques areadopted to identify irregularities including, a moisture meter reading of susceptible areas, sounding oftimber elements using a device called a "donga" visual assessment of materials affected by moisture orsigns of deformity, trails and bridging constructed by termites, irregular and regular shaped holes intimber elements indicating pest destruction.

Termite activity generates high temperatures and moisture and if this irregularity is found it can begrounds for further investigation.

High readings for moisture was found in the lower section of the walls which warrants further invasiveinvestigation.

Wall paneling, wall paper, carpet and fixed cabinetry can obscure termite activity.

The following items are highly recommended to be done ASAP:

- Install a Post-Construction Termite barrier system to the property (consult a suitably qualified termiteexpert for advice). - Access should be gained to the subfloor to allow a complete inspection of the property.- Clear any debris, garden beds or soil covering weep holes or vent holes (to prevent concealed termiteentry).- Remove, replace or treat any non-treated timbers in direct contact with the ground.- Repair & monitor any roof leaks.- Connect all downpipes & guttering adequately to the storm water (away from the building) to preventexcessive moisture around the building.- Treat, repair or replace any Fungal decay/wood rot. - Trees over 100mm diameter on the property should be drilled and tested for termite activity.- Regular inspections every 6-12 months.

Additional information:- Trees within 50m of the house that are on other properties can not be inspected.

Please be aware evidence of termites, including damage, may be present to concealed andinaccessible timbers, and would only be found if exposed by invasive means.

Trees and stumps, where present, have been visually inspected up to a height where possible andpracticable, for evidence of termite activity.

It is very difficult, and generally impossible to locate termite nests since they are underground andevidence in trees is usually well concealed. We therefore strongly recommend trees and stumps be testdrilled for evidence of termite nests.

Please also note the structural integrity of affected trees may be compromised, and must be furtherassessed by an arborist.

For further information, advice and clarification please contact David Ollerenshaw on: 0418 606 666


The following items were noted as - For your information

Noted Item

Building: Main BuildingLocation: All AreasFinding: Additional Photos - Obstructions and LimitationsInformation: These photographs are an indication of the obstructions and limitations which

impeded full inspection of the property at the time of inspection. These obstructionscan hide an array of defects and should be removed to allow full inspection to becarried out. A re-inspection is recommended once the areas are made accessible.

Noted Item

Building: Main BuildingLocation: All AreasFinding: Additional PhotosInformation: Additional photos are provided for your general reference.

Definitions to help you better understand this report

Access hole (cover) An opening in flooring or ceiling or other parts of a structure (such asservice hatch, removable panel) to allow for entry to carry out aninspection, maintenance or repair.

Accessible area An area of the site where sufficient, safe and reasonable access isavailable to allow inspection within the scope of the inspection.

Appearance defect Fault or deviation from the intended appearance of a building element.

Asbestos-Containing Material(ACM)

Asbestos-containing material (ACM) means any material or thing that,as part of its design, contains asbestos.

Building element A portion of a building that, by itself or in combination with other suchparts, fulfils a characteristic function. NOTE: For example supporting,enclosing, furnishing or servicing building space.

Client The person or other entity for whom the inspection is being carried out.

Conditions Conducive toTermite Activity

Noticeable building deficiencies or environmental factors that maycontribute to the presence of Termites.

Defect Fault or deviation from the intended condition of a material, assembly,or component.

Detailed assessment An assessment by an accredited sampler to determine the extent andmagnitude of methamphetamine contamination in a property.

Inspection Close and careful scrutiny of a building carried out without dismantling,in order to arrive at a reliable conclusion as to the condition of thebuilding.

Inspector Person or organisation responsible for carrying out the inspection.

Instrument Testing Where appropriate the carrying out of Tests using the followingtechniques and instruments: (a) electronic moisture detecting meter - aninstrument used for assessing the moisture content of building elements(b) stethoscope - an instrument used to hear sounds made by termiteswithin building elements (c) probing - a technique where timber andother materials/areas are penetrated with a sharp instrument (e.g.bradawl or pocket knife), but does not include probing of decorativetimbers or finishes, or the drilling of timber and trees and (d) sounding -a technique where timber is tapped with a solid object. (e) T3I - aninstrument used to detect movement, moisture and changes intemperature within timber

Limitation Any factor that prevents full or proper inspection of the building.

Major defect A defect of sufficient magnitude where rectification has to be carried

out in order to avoid unsafe conditions, loss of utility or furtherdeterioration of the property.

Methamphetamine An amphetamine-type stimulant that is highly addictive.Methamphetamine is a controlled substance, classified as a Class A(very high-risk) drug under the Misuse of Drug Act. This term is used asa grouping term to include all substances screened for, specifically:Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine,Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, MDAand MDMA.

Methamphetaminecontamination

A property or part of a property where the level of methamphetaminehas been tested in accordance with this standard and found to exceed0.5 micrograms/100 cm2 (Residential) or 10 micrograms/100 cm2(Commercial).

Methamphetamineproduction/manufacture

The manufacture of methamphetamine, including processing,packaging, and storage of methamphetamine and associatedchemicals.

Minor defect A defect other than a major defect.

Roof space/Roof void Space between the roof covering and the ceiling immediately below theroof covering.

Screening assessment An assessment by a screening sampler to determine whether or notmethamphetamine is present.

Serviceability defect Fault or deviation from the intended serviceability performance of abuilding element.

Significant item An item that is to be reported in accordance with the scope of theinspection.

Site Allotment of land on which a building stands or is to be erected.

Structural defect Fault or deviation from the intended structural performance of a buildingelement.

Structural element Physically distinguishable part of a structure. NOTE: For example wall,columns, beam, connection.

Subfloor space Space between the underside of a suspended floor and the ground.

Subterranean TermiteManagement Proposal

A written proposal in accordance with Australian Standard AS 3660.2 totreat a known subterranean termite infestation and/or manage the riskof concealed subterranean termite access to buildings and structures.

Termites Wood destroying insects belonging to the order 'Isoptera' whichcommonly attack seasoned timber.

Tests Additional attention to the visual examination was given to thoseaccessible areas which the consultant's experience has shown to be

particularly susceptible to attack by Termites. Instrument Testing ofthose areas and other visible accessible timbers/materials/areasshowing evidence of attack was performed.

Timber Pest Activity Tell-tale signs associated with 'active' (live) and/or 'inactive' (absence oflive) Timber Pests at the time of inspection.

Timber Pest Attack Timber Pest Activity and/or Timber Pest Damage.

Timber Pest Damage Noticeable impairments to the integrity of timber and other susceptiblematerials resulting from an attack by Timber Pests.

Urgent and Serious SafetyHazards

Building elements or situations that present a current or immediatepotential threat of injury or disease to persons.

Terms on which this report was prepared

This report has been prepared in accordance with and subject to the pre-inspection agreement inplace between the parties, which forms part of this Report.

This Report is prepared for the client identified above and may not be relied on by any other personwithout our express permission or by the purchase of this Report on our website.

SPECIAL ATTENTION SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE SCOPE, LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS INYOUR PRE-INSPECTION AGREEMENT AND THIS REPORT

Any of the exclusions or limitations identified for this Report may be the subject of a special-purposeinspection which we recommend being undertaken by an appropriately qualified inspector

RELIANCE AND DISCLOSURE

This report has been prepared based on conditions at the time of the report.

We own the copyright in this report and may make it available to third parties.

If your Property is in the Australian Capital Territory, you acknowledge we will make certain informationabout this Report available to the ACT Government for inclusion in the building and pest inspectionspublic register if required under the Civil Law (Sale of Residential Property) Act 2003 . This will includethe fact the report has been prepared, the Property street address, date of the inspection, the name ofthe person who prepared the report and (if applicable) the entity that employs them.

UNDETECTED DEFECT RISK RATING

If this Report has identified a medium or high-risk rating for undetected defects, we stronglyrecommend a further inspection of areas that were inaccessible. This may include an invasiveinspection that requires the removal or cutting of walls, floors or ceilings.

If the Property has been vacant for a period of time, moisture levels or leaks may not be detectable atthe time of the inspection because often only frequent use of water pipes (showers, taps etc) result in aleak being identifiable. We advise further testing on pipes and water susceptible areas (such as thebathroom and laundry) after more frequent use has occurred.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:

This is not a report by a licensed plumber or electrician. We recommend a special-purposereport to detect substandard or illegal plumbing and electrical work at the Property

This is not a smoke alarm report. We recommend all existing detectors in the Property be testedand advice sought as to the suitability of number, placement and operation.

This is not an asbestos report. There are potential products in the Property containing asbestosthat will not be identified in this report. In order to accurately identify asbestos, we recommendperforming an asbestos inspection, particularly for buildings built prior to 1988.

This is not a report on safety glass. Glazing in older homes may not reflect current standards andmay cause significant injury if damaged. Exercise caution around the glass in older homes.

This is not a report on window opening restrictions. We have not inspected window openingrestrictors. Window openings in older buildings may not reflect current standards and can be apotential risk. Window opening restrictors are advised for all second story or above windows with sillheights below 900mm. Some states make this a mandatory requirement. Owners should enquire oftheir local and state requirements to ensure compliance.

This is not a report on pool safety. If a swimming pool is present it should be the subject to aspecial purpose pool inspection.

This is not a Group Titled Property Report as per AS4349.2. If you require a report for a GroupTitled Property as per this standard, please seek a separate inspection for Group Titled Properties.

MOISTURE

The identification of moisture, dampness or the evidence of water penetration is dependent on theweather conditions at the time an inspection. The absence of dampness identified in this Report doesnot necessarily mean the Property will not experience some damp problems in other weatherconditions or that roofs, walls or wet areas are watertight.

Where the evidence of water penetration is identified we recommend detailed investigation ofwaterproofing in the surrounding area monitoring of the affected area over a period of time to fullydetect and assess the cause of dampness.

MAINTENANCE OF THE PROPERTY

This Report is not a warranty or an insurance policy against problems developing with the Property inthe future. Accordingly, a preventative maintenance program should be implemented which includessystematic inspections, detection and prevention of issues. Please contact the inspector who carriedout this inspection for further advice.

It is strongly advised that appropriate steps be taken to remove, rectify or monitor any evidence ofconditions conducive to timber pest activity. Undertaking thorough regular inspections at intervals notexceeding twelve months (or more frequent inspections where the risk of timber pest attack is high orthe building type is susceptible to attack). To further reduce the risk of subterranean termite attack,implement a management program in accordance with Australian Standard AS3660. This may includethe installation of a monitoring and/or baiting system, or chemical and/or physical barrier. However,AS3660 stresses that subterranean termites can bridge or breach barrier systems and inspectionzones and those thorough regular inspections of the building are necessary.

NO CERTIFICATION

a) The Property has been compared to others of a similar age, construction type andmethod that had an acceptable level of basic maintenance completed.

b) We don’t advise you about title, ownership or other legal matters like easements,restrictions, covenants and planning laws. None of our inspections constitutes approvalby a Building Surveyor, a certificate of occupancy or compliance with any law, regulationor standard, including any comment on whether the Property complies with currentAustralian Standards, Building Regulations or other legislative requirements.

RECTIFICATION COSTS

We don’t provide advice on the costs of rectification or repair unless specifically identified in the scopeof the Report. Any cost advice provided verbally or in this report must be taken as of a general natureand is not to be relied on. Actual costs depend on the quality of materials, the standard of work, whatprice a contractor is prepared to do the work for and may be contingent on approvals, delays andunknown factors associated with third parties. No liability is accepted for costing advice.

Building and Timber Pest Inspection Report

Documents

Transcript of Building and Timber Pest Inspection Report