When buying a property, it is usually a good idea to have a pest and building inspection done.  This is an additional cost at a time when funds are at a premium, but it will help ensure that you are not buying "unseen" problems such as termite infestation, cracked or shifting foundations. Some building inspectors will do a pest report as well, but if yours doesn't you should get a pest control expert to provide one. 

Pest Report

Your pest report should provide details such as evidence of either active or inactive Subterranean Termites, Borers of Timber and Wood Decay Fungi.  Details should also be provided as to any areas which may be conducive to pest or fungi activity, such as whether or not there is sufficient sub-structure ventilation, good drainage, ant caps etc.

The report should also give a description of the property and detail which areas were inspected, which areas were inaccessible or where vision was obstructed.  Information should be provided as to whether or not a pest treatment is recommended at the time of inspection.

Building Report

Your building report should give you details of any matters which require attention at the time of inspection, such as cracks in the structure, "drummy" or lose/cracked tiles, condition of gutters, condition of outdoor areas, evidence of water leakage, condition of roof and condition of structure in general.  Some building inspections will also include a site appraisal, giving details of the surrounding area, privacy of property etc.

As with the pest report, details should include a description of the property and detail which areas were inspected, inaccessible and visually obstructed.  Inspection of the property's services will  also be included in a good building report and include things such as type and state of repair of water, gas, electricity, telephone and water heating services.  Some reports will also include details of things such as location of television antennas and clothes lines etc.

Disclaimer: The information provided on the GM Conveyancing web site is not intended to be legal advice. Many factors unknown to us may affect the applicability of any statement or comment that we make on the GM Conveyancing web site to your particular circumstances. It is recommended that anyone reading this information should seek legal advice from a solicitor.