building & pest report...

PO Box 5166 HUGHESDALE Australia 3166

Ph 1300-693-583 Fax 1300-692-823 [email protected]

Maclaw No 726 Pty (ACN 96573080543)

Building Report 25 Johns Avenue BOX HILL Report Prepared: 1 March 2013

Date Report Prepared: 1 March 2013 Property: 25 Johns Avenue, BOX HILL

Copyright: Home First Property Inspections Reference: 12

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PROPERTY DETAILS Inspection Date 1 March 2013 Our Reference 12 Property 25 Johns Avenue, BOX HILL Client David Lucas Inspection Date 1 March 2013 Our Reference 12

Access for Inspection

Restricted access caused by stored goods, furnishings, window treatments, security devices, vegetation, duct work, confined spaces, insulation and other impediments may limit the scope of this inspection.

Interior access is acceptable

Subfloor access is acceptable but was subject to some restrictions

- duct work and low clearances meant restricted access to the areas;

- low clearances meant I was unable to access the areas;

Ceiling cavity access is acceptable but sections of the roof were restricted by;

- low clearances due to the roof design and frame work meant I was unable to inspect some areas;

Report Summary IMPORTANT - Please read the complete report and “Scope of Limitations” section before making any decisions with regard to the condition of this property.

Our inspection has highlighted the following items: Hallway

The Floor in the hallway before entering the kitchen area and the hallway leading to the two bedrooms has dropped or is lower than the house floor levels.

This is due to the load bearing roof structure above that supports the large open plan design.

There appears to be no foundation support or designed footing in the subfloor, on the contrary in the subfloor the original wooden stumps are the only support. (See pictures)

Exterior

there is some movement cracking in the driveway

The concrete in the driveway levels are directing rain surface water to under the deck area and also through subfloor vents to under the house.

The concrete around the property is preventing water accessing and stabilizing the foundations. Overtime this may result in the movement of the foundations and consequently cracking of the exterior walls.



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All the downpipes are interconnected via a 90mm stormwater pipe and suspended under the house. This pipe should be sized correctly and checked to see that it runs without restraint.

The grates and drains in the concrete I can only assume connect to the existing stormwater drain. This would need further investigation as to whether the drains are operational.

The two pool fences and gates are in need of urgent repair. They do not close automatically and are a safety hazard and risk to life.

Subfloor

A structural engineer will be needed to verify if the foundation is designed and installed for the purpose intended.



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Description of Property Block Number Section Number Weather Conditions Fine Type of Development

Single level free standing dwelling

The dwelling was fully furnished and all cupboards & built-in robes were full of the occupiers stored goods at the time of this inspection.

Four bedrooms

Ensuite

One bathroom

Additional Toilet Roofing

Timber truss hard wood and pine construction

Terracotta tile roof covering Exterior Walls

Brick veneer. Brick external walls with timber internal framing.

Finish - rendered masonry Flooring

Floor construction - hardwood bearers and joists in the front section of the house on the old wooden stumps, strip flooring, particle board flooring to the extension.

Motor Vehicle Accommodation Other Structural Improvements



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Scope of Inspection and Standard Indicators

This report is written considering the Australian Standard AS4349.1—2007 Inspection of buildings (Property Inspections—Residential buildings) and is the

result of a VISUAL INSPECTION ONLY - IT IS INTENDED TO BE READ AS A WHOLE.

The report is not designed to quantify features of the property; rather it is our role to conduct a thorough visual inspection and report only on areas of concern and identify critical defects or faults for an intending purchaser, insofar as a property inspector can reasonably identify those defects or faults. When reading this report, the age of the building needs to be taken into consideration. Some items may not have been detailed, as they are considered a normal occurrence or general wear and tear for a building of this age. Electrical appliances and utilities such as water reticulation, electrical wiring or gas installations, swimming pool and spa equipment were not tested. Qualified technicians should be consulted in regard to these items. Generally, ongoing maintenance items, upgrading, cosmetic works and minor defects or faults will not be detailed.

The Property Inspector uses three terms when describing the standard of a building or a particular item being scrutinised. They are:

Acceptable - The feature or area subject to comment is, in the inspector's opinion, of sufficient standard to not

require any remedial or repair work. There may be minor imperfections in the finish. Some surfaces may benefit from cleaning or retouching.

Fair - The feature or area subject to comment is, in the inspector's opinion, usable but has deteriorated and would

benefit from remedial or repair work. For instance, painting may be required, render may require patching, and door or window fittings may require adjustment or repair.

Poor - The feature or area subject to comment, in the inspector's opinion, requires substantial remedial or repair

work, or replacement. Faults are major and possibly structural. Repairs are considered necessary rather than discretionary. Note All of the above terms are used having regard for the age, quality of workmanship, style and type of construction of the building being inspected. For example, the features and finishes considered “Acceptable” in a 50 year old building are not necessarily going to be so in a modern dwelling. A new or near new building without significant defects would usually be described as “Acceptable”. The inspector did not move or remove any ceilings, wall coverings, floor coverings (including carpeting and wooden floorboards), furnishings, equipment, appliances, pictures or other household goods. In an occupied property, furnishing or household items may be concealing defects.



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What the Inspector Examines

To provide relevance and value for the reader, at the end of this report we have included a matrix showing aspects that are considered during an inspection. We recommend that you read this information to gain perspective about the detail of our examination. Comment on many items will only be provided in the event of an adverse finding worthy of mention. For your information Some comments made throughout this report may appear repetitive. However, this is designed to inform the reader that the elements commented on have been inspected.

Interior Bedrooms are numbered in the order of inspection

Bedroom 1 Overall condition: fair

Painting - fair/poor

The paint finish is not to a tradesman's standard.

Floor Coverings - acceptable

Carpet

Bedroom 2 Overall condition: acceptable/fair

Painting - acceptable/fair

The paint finish is not to a tradesman’s standard.


Carpet

Bedroom 3 Overall condition: acceptable/fair




Carpet



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Ensuite Overall condition: fair

Vanity/Hand Basin - acceptable

Shower Screen - fair/poor

the shower screen door is not closing correctly; some adjustment is required.

Toilet Suite - not inspected, we cannot apply a condition

dual flush vitreous china cistern

Ventilation - not applicable

ventilation is provided by a ceiling mounted exhaust fan



Water Leakage -

our visual inspection has not detected any water leakage

Elevated moisture readings were recorded around the shower recess walls near the base and just outside the shower door near the corners of the shower recess. There was no obvious structural damage; however remedial action should be taken at the earliest opportunity. The showers recent use may have contributed to these readings.

Wall Tiles - acceptable/fair

Floor Tiles - poor

there are several cracked floor tiles

Elevated moisture readings on floor and around shower recess near the base.

Three cracked tiles.



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Bathroom Overall condition: fair

Vanity/Hand Basin - poor

the vanity has been affected by water penetration

Shower Screen - fair

Bath - acceptable

Acrylic bath

Ventilation - not inspected, we cannot apply a condition




Water Leakage -

water leakage was apparent under the vanity basin.

Moisture Readings - fair

Elevated

Our electronic moisture meter has recorded elevated moisture levels in the floor area adjacent to the shower recess. Moisture can escape from the shower recess in a number of different ways including faulty water seal membrane and or leaking shower screens. Where the water seal has failed, moisture can leach from the shower base and permeate under the adjacent floor and wall tiles. We recommend that a qualified tradesman be consulted to determine the most appropriate solution"

Wall Tiles - acceptable

Floor Tiles - acceptable

Leaking basin trap.

Water damage to door architrave and parquetry floor from leaking shower recess

Moisture readings elevated



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Water damage to vanity basin cabinet

High moisture reading in shower recess.

Toilet Overall condition: acceptable/fair



Toilet Suite - not inspected, we cannot apply a condition

dual flush vitreous china cistern

Ventilation - not inspected, we cannot apply a condition






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Laundry Overall condition: acceptable



Laundry Tub - acceptable

Single bowl stainless steel laundry tub

The washing machine drain is connected via a bypass or separate drain.

Water Leakage -

our visual inspection has not detected any water leakage



Water damage to join in bench behind trough.

Kitchen Overall condition: acceptable



Joinery/Fitout - acceptable

the joinery and fitout is in original, functional condition

Ventilation - acceptable

ventilation is provided by an externally ducted range hood


Tiles

Appliances - not tested -

gas cook top

under bench oven

Splashback - acceptable

Tile

Family Room Overall condition: acceptable/fair



Floor Coverings - acceptable/fair

Timber parquetry

the parquetry floor has some marks - minor



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Living Room Overall condition: acceptable/fair




Timber parquetry

the parquetry floor has some marks - minor

Hallway Overall condition: acceptable/fair




Timber parquetry

the parquetry floor has some marks - minor.

The Floor in the hallway before entering the kitchen area and the hallway leading to the two bedrooms has dropped or is lower than the house floor levels.

This is due to the load bearing roof structure above that supports the large open plan design.

There appears to be no foundation support or designed footing in the subfloor, on the contrary in the subfloor the original wooden stumps are the only support. (See pictures)

Cantilevered roof beams and load bearing point on wall in hallway above section of floor that has dropped.

This section is where the floor has dropped and is supporting the main roof beams (shown above). You can see it is on the original wooden stump. This should have been replaced and installed to engineer’s specifications. This needs a structural engineer to certify.



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Roof Cavity Overall condition: acceptable

Insulation -

fibreglass insulation

Sarking -

no sarking has been installed in the roof cavity

Access - Roof Cavity -

Ceiling cavity access was acceptable

Exterior

Roof Construction Overall condition: not applicable

Timber truss hard wood and pine construction

Roof Covering Overall condition: acceptable

Terracotta tile roof covering

Bedding and Pointing Overall condition: acceptable

Gutters, Downpipes, Flashing Overall condition: acceptable

All the downpipes are interconnected via a 90mm stormwater pipe and suspended under the house. This pipe should be sized correctly and checked to see that it runs without restraint.

The grates and drains in the concrete I can only assume connect to the existing stormwater drain. This would need further investigation as to whether the drains are operational.

90mm Stormwater drain. Needs to be larger. No access for cleaning.

Eaves, Fascia and Barge Ends Overall condition: acceptable



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Wall Finish Exterior Overall condition: acceptable/fair

Finish - rendered masonry

There are a few minor 1mm cracks in the render down the North face of the house. These should be monitored over time.

Movement of brickwork showing through render.

Wall Construction Exterior Overall condition: fair

Brick veneer. Brick external walls with timber internal framing.

Doors and Windows External Overall condition: fair

generally the exterior doors need to be repainted

the entrance door has deteriorated due to exposure to the elements and needs to be repaired and repainted.

repainting of window frames is required.

Back door to deck weather damaged. Needs weather seals.

Painting Overall condition: acceptable/fair

Floor Construction Overall condition: fair

Floor construction - hardwood bearers and joists in the front section of the house on the old wooden stumps, strip flooring, particle board flooring to the extension.

Steps and Stairs External Overall condition: poor

The stair treads leading up onto the deck on the East side of the house are not level.



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Sub Floor Overall condition: poor

There are many concerns regarding the construction and integrity of the subfloor.

there is an accumulation of debris and or stored goods in the sub-floor.

there was some surface moisture at the time of our inspection. Moisture levels should be monitored to determine if this is an ongoing problem. Remedial action may be required

sub floor ventilation appears to be adequate

our inspection was restricted by low clearances and ductwork

Bearer spaning over 3 metres and chocked in one area. Not to regulations.

Substandard workmanship

The wiring under this property needs to be checked by a qualified electrician.



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Three stumps in a row have been extended. Substandard workmanship

Difficult to see but the floor has dropped where it supports the roof structure.

Timber supporting large floor joists with 3inch nails to substandard frame. Substandard workmanship



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Two supports for the flooring cut away for the central heating ducts.

Substandard workmanship.

No weather proofing from the deck to the subfloor. Timbers getting wet and damaged.



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Brick supporting peers not tied to wall but rendered to hide their fault. These are cracking and have moved away from the structure.

Floor joist cut away completely for duct register

Substandard Installation



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Substandard installation


Brickwork supports damaged and removed for pipework installations



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Incorrect support.

Brick peers are not correct and could be just sitting on concrete path not on a foundation.



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Driveway Overall condition: poor

there is some movement cracking in the driveway

The concrete in the driveway levels are directing rain surface water to under the deck area and also through subfloor vents to under the house.


Paths and Paving Overall condition: fair/poor


Surface water directed to subfloor vent

Retaining Walls Overall condition: not inspected, we cannot apply a condition

Timber retaining walls

some of the retaining walls are built on the easement

Cannot inspect retaining walls. Up against boundary fence with no access. Approx 1 meter high.

Fences and Gates Overall condition: poor

Timber paling fence

Metal Colorbond pool fence

The two pool fences and gates are in need of urgent repair. They donot close automatically and are a safety hazard and risk to life.



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Ducting Overall condition: poor

It appears that the ductwork has been dismantled in different areas and therefore not operational.

the duct work has been damaged in several areas, some damaged sections may need to be replaced

The ductwork is lying on the ground and needs to be suspended as per manufacturer’s instructions. The efficiency of the duct is lost as the insulation is compressed while it sits on the ground.

Dismantled ductwork

External Appliances Overall condition:

Instantaneous Hot Water Service

It is difficult to predict how long a hot water service is going to last. Not knowing the installation date some hot water services far exceed their warranty by many years and some unfortunately much less.

External Structures Overall condition:

Swimming pool

Deck

Pool fence gates need urgent repair to operate as intended.

Deck has been laid onto a 15mm cement sheet base suspended on timber stumps. Moisture trapped between the timber deck and the cement sheet may reduce the timbers life.


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What Your Inspector Examines

To provide relevance and value for the reader, the following pages show (but do not limit) aspects of the property that may be examined, where visual inspection is possible. These items are considered as the inspector reviews each room or area. In many cases comment on a particular area will only be provided in the event of an adverse finding worthy of mention.

Ceiling Construction sagging cracking defective lining

dampness/water damage cornices nail popping

Wall Construction bulging nail popping defective lining

dampness/water damage cracking defective or damaged plaster/render

distortion (significant)

Note Settlement cracks, if present, need to be monitored over a period of time to determine if an ongoing structural problem exists. If any reference has been made in this report to cracking, settlement and/or movement, it should be noted that we are not experts in this area and further advice should be obtained from a Structural Engineer.

Floors, Coverings and Finishes Timber Floor Construction

springy boards/sheeting squeaky boards/sheeting timber decay (rot)

out of level undulations dampness/water damage Concrete Floor Construction

cracking out of level dampness/water damage Carpets

wear stains and marks stretching

seam splitting

undulations dampness/water damage

Hard Flooring

wear stains and marks cracking

loose or drummy units

dampness/water damage

Internal and External Doors and Door Frames binding doors defective hardware rotting/corroded frames

loose/badly fitting doors damage


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Timber and Metal Windows putty/glazing sealant broken glass operation

loose/badly fitting doors damage rotting frames or sashes (timber)

fittings/hardware water staining of frames rotting frames, corrosion (metal)

sills

Note Windows are randomly checked for correct operation. In many cases access to windows is restricted by window treatments, furniture or security locks. Older style timber windows can sometimes bind with the frame, generally due to paint build up. This is viewed as a general maintenance issue.

Paintwork The condition of painted surfaces is often a subjective matter. Areas that appear to be acceptable when furnished may not always be considered so when devoid of obstructions. Paint work is normally not considered in Property Inspections and Reports. The opinions provided here are of a general nature only, given that there can be significant differences in the condition of painted surfaces in each area of the property. The reader of this report is urged to conduct their own detailed inspection before reaching a conclusion regarding the acceptability of painted surfaces. To prevent wood decay of timber surfaces and deterioration of metal components, the condition of these surfaces should be monitored and repainting carried out regularly. Corrosion of any metal roof sheeting should be repaired, treated and painted to avoid water leakages. Painted surfaces can mask areas where timber has deteriorated. Our visual inspection may not detect instances where this has occurred.

Wet Areas

If a wet area was not in service prior to and or at the time of inspection and no elevated moisture readings were recorded, or there was no visible evidence of water leakage, then it is entirely possible that an existing water leak will remain undetected.

floor grade floor waste cistern/pan

taps, basins, tubs leakage water hammer

drummy tiles cracked/missing tiles grout defects

sealants shower leakage broken/cracked screen glass

vanity ventilation mirrors

fixtures and fittings

Kitchen bench tops cupboards doors & drawers

taps leakage sink

drummy tiles cracked/missing tiles grout defects

sealants ventilation excessive water hammer

Note This report does not cover any matters relating to the operation of electrical or gas appliances. Any comments made in this regard are from a general observation only.


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Internal and External Staircases stringers handrails balustrades

newel posts treads (goings) risers

Internal Roof Space framing insulation sarking

party walls (if applicable) Note Sarking is a foil insulation/vapour barrier. Used in conjunction with bulk insulation, sarking provides an ideal insulation system for the control of heat and condensation. Sarking can only be installed during construction.

External Roof Covering, Gutters and Downpipes tiles/slates sheet roofing flashing

skylights vents flues

valleys guttering downpipes

fascia boards barge ends eaves Note Repainting of timber can mask the existence of timber rot. We cannot guarantee that all timbers are sound. A visual inspection may not, in some circumstances, detect roofing timbers affected by rot.

The stormwater system was not tested at this inspection. Blocked or non-existent stormwater drains are sometimes accountable for problems relating to roof drainage. If noted, gutters that retain water should be cleaned and monitored to determine the extent of the problem. Constant immersion in water will result in accelerated deterioration of metal gutters. Re alignment of the gutters to facilitate better drainage may be required.

External Walls and Non Structural Retaining Walls bricks mortar render

cracking/movement dampness visible flashing

weep holes joint sealants perpends

decay Note Settlement cracks, if present, need to be monitored over a period of time to determine if an ongoing structural problem exists. If any reference has been made in this report to cracking, settlement and or movement, it should be noted that we are not experts in this area and further advice, if considered necessary, should be obtained from a Structural Engineer.


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Paths, Paving and Driveway cracking movement uplifting

sinking alignment root penetration

Fences and Gates palings/panels rails posts

sagging timber decay (rot)

Sub Floor

Timber Floor Construction

bearers & joists framing piers/stumps

dampness drainage ventilation

cracked or leaking pipes debris

Suspended Concrete Floor Construction

concrete condition cracking dampness

debris drainage ventilation

cracked or leaking pipes

Note If moisture is noted, it is recommended that the sub-floor area be monitored to ensure that surface and sub-surface moisture ingress is not an ongoing issue. If the area remains damp, consideration should be given to upgrading subterranean and surface drainage systems to ensure that moisture is directed away from the building foundations and the sub-floor area is kept dry. A qualified drainage expert should be consulted with regard to drainage issues.

Special Purpose Reports

Improvements such as swimming pools and spas are subject to a Special Purpose Report and are not included in our inspection and reports. We recommend that a qualified technician be engaged to report on these items and to advise on current regulations relating to safety fencing and equipment.


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SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE INSPECTION Inspection of the subject property and this report has been completed considering Australian Standard AS4349.1—2007 Inspection of buildings (Property Inspections—Residential buildings) The inspection is a VISUAL INSPECTION ONLY. This report is intended to be read as a whole. Please read the detailed inspection information and the Scope & Limitations of Report sections before reaching any conclusions regarding the condition of the property.

Limitation of Liability Report on the property is on the date of inspection. No responsibility is accepted for any matter not existing or evident or for any deterioration occurring after the inspection date. This inspection is completely visual. Concealed areas where access is unavailable are unable to be inspected and are not reported on; such defects could include, but are not limited to:

Breakage, blockage or interference with any concealed pipes, broken window mechanisms (sash cords) etc.

Any part of the structure which is underground or concealed e.g. footings, wall framing, under floor coverings. Areas concealed by furnishings or stored goods etc.

Any cracking reported should be monitored for further movement. If further movement is noted, a structural engineer should be consulted as to the correct method for repairs. Movement cannot be measured during one inspection.

No responsibility can be accepted for defects which are latent or otherwise not reasonably detected on a visual inspection without interference with or removal of any of the structure including fixtures, fittings, furniture, insulation or stored items within and around the building.

There has been no electrical, data, security or fire detection system testing or investigation.

Special Purpose Reports This Property Report does not contain any assessment or opinion in relation to any item which is the subject of a Special Purpose Property Report, or any matter where the inspection or assessment of which is solely regulated by Statute. Special Purpose Property Reports include comment on the following: Common property areas, environmental concerns such as sunlight, privacy, streetscape and views, proximity of property to flight paths, railways and busy traffic or other neighbourhood issues; Noise levels; Health and safety issues including, but not limited to the presence of asbestos, lead or other hazardous materials; Heritage concerns; Security or fire protection systems; Climate control or water heating systems; Analysis of site drainage apart from surface water drainage; Swimming pools and spas; Detection and identification of illegal and unauthorized plumbing work; Durability of exposed finishes. Any person who relies upon the contents of this report does so acknowledging that the following clauses, which define the Scope and Limitations of the inspection, form an integral part of the report. This report has been prepared as a result of a VISUAL INSPECTION of the building on the date stated and it is limited to the condition of those areas and sections of the building that were fully accessible (see Reasonable Access) and visible to the inspector at the date of the inspection. This report does not and cannot make comment upon: defects which may have been concealed; the assessment or detection of defects (including rising damp or leaks) which may be subject to the prevailing


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weather conditions; whether or not services have been used for some time prior to the inspection and whether this will affect the detection of leaks or other defects; the presence or absence of timber pests; gas fittings; environmental concerns; the proximity of the property to flight paths, railways, or busy traffic; noise levels; health and safety issues; heritage concerns; security concerns, fire protection; site drainage (apart from surface water drainage); the operation of swimming pools and spas; detection and identification of unapproved building work; detection and identification of illegal or inadequate plumbing or electrical work: durability of exposed finishes; neighbourhood problems; document analysis; any matters solely regulated by statute; any area or item that could not be inspected by the inspector. Safe and Reasonable Access AS 4349.1 – 2007 3.2.2 The ability to safely access an area shall be determined by the inspector at the time of inspection, based on the conditions encountered during inspection. The inspection shall include only accessible areas and areas that are within the inspector’s line of sight and close enough to enable reasonable appraisal. Reasonable access shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the following information:

Area Access Manhole MM Crawl Space MM Height

Roof Interior 450 x 500 600 x 600 Accessible from a 3.6 m ladder

Subfloor 500 x 400 Timber Floor: 400 Concrete Floor: 500

Roof Exterior Accessible from a 3.6 m ladder

Accordingly, this report is not a guarantee that defects and/or damage do not exist in any part of the property not specifically seen and described by the inspector. This report is not a warranty against problems that may develop in the future. Unless otherwise specified, no examination has been made of any documentation of any type. We have not referred to statutory authority records nor have we examined any survey or water and sewerage service diagram or any other document prepared by any statutory authority or other party. Purpose of This Report The purpose of this report is to identify major defects or faults in the building for an intending purchaser, insofar as a property inspector can reasonably identify those defects or faults. This report contains a number of observations but is not intended to list every minor defect. Minor defects are common to properties and are generally attended to during routine maintenance, redecoration and or renovation. Generally, ongoing maintenance items, upgrading, cosmetic works and minor defects or faults have not been included. These items will depend on your personal requirements and budget. The property age and type also needs to be taken into consideration. Occupational Health & Safety Act A non-residential building and the common property of some group residential buildings will fall within the definition of a workplace for the purposes of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, The owners of workplaces must ensure that:

premises are safe and without risk

plant and substances are used without risk

workers are trained in OH&S, are aware of their obligations and do, in fact, act in a safe manner


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A pre-purchase building inspection may identify some safety issues in the common area but it is not an audit conducted for that specific purpose. It is essential that every Owners’ Corporation or Company consult an appropriately qualified specialist to ensure it meets its legislative obligations. Safe Working Temperatures for the Inspector When the temperature of a workspace (for example a ceiling cavity) exceeds the level considered to be safe according to OH&S guidelines, the inspector will complete a risk assessment and the inspection will be limited accordingly. In the event that the inspector decides that the temperature exceeds safe working limits, generally, the inspection will be limited to the area immediately adjacent to the access for inspection. Concealed Surfaces The inspection did not include breaking apart, dismantling, removing or moving objects, including but not limited to foliage, mouldings, roof insulation or sisalation, floor or wall coverings, sidings, ceilings, floors, furnishings, appliances, or personal possessions. The inspector cannot see inside walls, between floors, inside skillion roofing, behind stored goods or any other areas that are concealed or obstructed. The inspector did not dig, gouge, force or perform any other invasive procedures. Visible timbers have not been destructively probed or hit. Some defects may only be visible once furniture and other items have been removed from a property or when alterations are carried out. Built-in cupboards are usually filled with personal items and clothing. Some exterior surfaces may be obscured due to overgrown vegetation. Therefore, we cannot comment on the condition of the surfaces obscured by these items or otherwise concealed. Water Penetration Some water penetration problems and/or dampness do not become apparent and sometimes cannot be detected unless there has been recent heavy rain or prolonged periods of rain. Fire Protection Equipment & Ordinance Requirements These are not covered by this report and these matters should be checked with the statutory authority. Any fire protection equipment has not been tested, e.g. smoke detectors etc. Hazardous Materials & Contamination Many building products with an asbestos cement component were in use prior to 1980 and are considered safe if left in their present state. The main concern with asbestos products is in relation to the sprayed Limpet Asbestos fibres which were generally used for acoustic and heat insulation in commercial buildings and these should not be tampered with before seeking expert advice which is freely available from Workcover. Our inspection and report does not cover any hazardous materials or prior use of the land and building or any chemicals applied to land and buildings, which may have caused contamination. Retaining Walls & Structural Columns We are not engineers. Comment in respect of large and/or structural retaining walls and columns are beyond the scope of this report. It is not possible to determine from a visual inspection whether a retaining wall or column has been built in accordance with sound engineering principles and, even if it has, whether it is or will remain sound. An engineer should be consulted in any case where there are large, or structural, retaining walls, columns or similar building elements. Appliances This report does not cover any matters relating to the operation of electrical or gas appliances. Any comments made in this regard are from a general observation only. Cracking/Settlement/Movement & Structural Integrity


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When reference has been made in this report to cracking, settlement, movement or an opinion has been provided on structural integrity, it is important to note that we are not experts in this area and our advice is limited accordingly. If considered necessary, further advice should be obtained from a Structural Engineer before critical decisions are made relative to such matters. Electrical, Gas & Other Service Installations We are not licensed electricians, gas fitters or mechanical engineers. This report does not cover any matters relating to electrical and gas installations or any apparatus operated by electronic, mechanical or hydraulic means. You should satisfy yourself as to the operation and condition of any appliances or other installations. Any comments made in this regard are from general observation only. Plumbing & Drainage We are not licensed plumbers and a specialist inspection of the water service, plumbing and drainage system is excluded from this report. We recommend an inspection by a licensed plumber and drainer to identify any plumbing faults or drainage problems. Pests We strongly recommend that an independent inspection and report be obtained from a specialised, accredited Pest Inspector to determine whether the property is free from infestation (whether active or dormant). Boundaries Unless otherwise stated the inspector has not gained access to any neighbouring properties and is therefore unable to comment upon the external state of any boundary fences and walls. WARRANTY AND USE OF THIS REPORT This Report has been prepared for the exclusive use of the Client specified in the Property Details panel at the beginning of this Report. NO LIABILITY or responsibility whatsoever is accepted to any third party that may use or rely on this Report, whether in whole or in part and whether in contract or in tort. For the avoidance of doubt, any third party acting or relying on this Report or any part of it does so at their own risk. NO LIABILITY shall be accepted on account of failure of the Report to notify any Termite activity and/or damage present at or prior to the date of the Report in any areas(s) or section(s) of the subject property physically inaccessible for inspection, or to which access for Inspection is denied by or to the Licensed Inspector (including but not limited to any area(s) or section(s) so specified by the Report). NO LIABLITY or responsibility whatsoever is accepted for the failure to report a defect that was concealed by the owner of the Property at the time of inspection. This Report is valid for one hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of inspection and NO LIABILITY or responsibility whatsoever will be accepted or claims considered after the expiration of this period. The Copyright in this Report at all times remains with Homes First Property Inspections. This Report may not be reproduced and/or sold or provided to any third party without the express written consent of Homes First Property Inspections first being obtained which consent may be given or withheld at the sole direction of Homes First Property Inspections. The Client releases and indemnifies Homes First Property Inspections from and against all claims (without limitation), costs and expenses of whatsoever nature arising out of the unauthorised sale or provision of this Report by the Client to any third party. This Report supersedes any other report, whether written, verbal or a combination to the two, given to the Client by Homes First Property Inspections in connection with the Property. However, if any matter or issue contained in this Report requires clarification, the Client should not hesitate to telephone Homes First Property Inspections for assistance. Signed on behalf of: Home First Property Inspections

Scott Robinson

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