All investment homeowners should take the time to have an annual pest controlservice for their rental properties to reduce the risk of property damage and prevent other health concerns related to the property for the client. An annual pest control inspection is also important because pests such as roaches can pose a risk to the health of those living on the property, resulting in costly medical bills if untreated and could also cause significant property damage that could be financially damaging to the property owner.
Termite activities can be a major threat to the value and integrity of buildings, causing significant damage and economic losses.
Certified Pest Controller
A proper pest control program performed by a certified professional can also help prevent future infestations by controlling pest populations while educating the client on how to properly maintain their home and reduce the likelihood of future infestations. Investing in an annual termite inspection is not just a precautionary measure but a smart investment to protect the value and integrity of your property.
Regular termite inspections are essential to identify and address potential pest problems before they cause significant damage.
When hiring a company for a termite inspection, they thoroughly examine the inside and outside of your home to identify signs of an infestation. The technician looks for moisture or damage caused by termites or other pests, as well as areas susceptible to infestations, such as wood in contact with the ground. During the inspection, technicians wear protective equipment like gloves and masks for safety.
By using advanced technology and relying on the expertise of our trained technicians, Clear View Property Inspections ensures a thorough and comprehensive termite inspection to identify any current or potential termite infestations.
Reporting
After completing the inspection, they provide a detailed report, including information on any damage that may have been caused by termites or other pests and recommendations for necessary repairs. Reports are usually delivered electronically but can be requested in print format.
Importance of Annual Inspections
Regular termite inspections are essential to identify and address potential pest problems before they cause significant damage. The Australian Standard recommends annual inspections as a way to detect infestations early on. In today’s rapidly changing world, the significance of accurate termite control methods cannot be overstated.
Homes have lots of structural wood, making it essential for a termite building inspection.
A pool safety inspection and certification cost can vary depending on the chosen inspector. Pricing for these services is influenced by various factors such as:
Size and number of pools/spas on the property
Inspection and certification for a Home or Business
The required turnaround of your pool safety inspection and certification
For additional quotes or confirm prices for body corporate, hotels, gyms and other buildings, contact us.
Contact us today for a competitive quote for your pool safety inspection and certification for NSW pools and spas.
At Clearview Property Inspections, we emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the ongoing safety and compliance of your pool fence.
We offer pool safety inspections in various locations throughout Sydney, including the Hills District, Pennant Hills. In New South Wales, there are strict laws regarding pool safety regulations.
All public pools in New South Wales must have functioning and up-to-standard pool barriers inspected annually. If any faults are detected during these inspections, immediate repairs should be made to ensure the safety of the public and pool staff.
Property owners (including homeowners, local councils or pool management companies) are responsible for regularly inspecting and maintaining their respective pool barriers. Qualified inspectors specialising in evaluating such barriers have been extensively trained to identify defects and recommend appropriate repairs to maintain barrier integrity.
After an inspection, if any issues are found with the pool barrier, it will be labelled with a warning to notify the public and prompt timely repairs. Neglecting maintenance and repair of a pool barrier is considered a severe violation of NSW law. Pool operators or managers failing to adhere to these regulations may face significant fines or imprisonment.
Regular maintenance and inspections It’s important to note that simply installing a compliant pool fence is not enough to ensure ongoing safety.
Swimming pools in Sydney are popular due to the warm climate and coastal location. They provide a controlled and safe environment for swimming compared to the ocean or colder months.
Swimming Pools Act
In recent years, the NSW government has implemented regulations and standards to ensure the safety and compliance of swimming pools. These regulations aim to prevent accidents, injuries, and drownings by establishing strict guidelines for pool construction, maintenance, and operation. One of the key regulations introduced in NSW is the Swimming Pools Act 1992 which mandates appropriate barriers or fencing for swimming pools along with regular inspections to ensure compliance.
Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to keep the pool fence in optimal condition and ensure that it continues to meet safety standards.
Swimming Pool Compliance
To protect families and children in NSW, there are strict pool safety policies that require homeowners with pools or spas to obtain inspections and certifications. When selling a home, a pool inspection must be conducted, and either a Compliance or Non-Compliance certificate provided during the sale process. The goal is to prevent drownings and enhance pool safety by strictly enforcing these laws. It is crucial for pool owners to fully understand their obligations under these regulations and take necessary measures to ensure compliance with all safety standards.
Swimming Pool Safety
We will assist you in every step towards achieving your Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate. To become eligible for a Pool barrier compliance certificate, your pool must first be registered on the NSW pool register. Registering the Pool is a simple process for all homeowners to do. The idea is to have all pools registered in one location so the authorities can see the pool’s status and advise homeowners.
Once the pool is registered on the NSW swimming pool register, we will help you step by step to achieve your swimming pool barrier compliance certificate. Pools that are found to be non-compliant during an inspection must be brought up to standard before a Certificate of Compliance is issued. The responsibility for pool safety rests with the pool owner, and non-compliance can result in fines or legal action.
At Clearview Property Inspections, we emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the ongoing safety and compliance of your pool fence.
In an auction sale, the property is sold to the highest bidder, and the sale is final and unconditional. This means the buyer cannot conduct a pre-purchase inspection before the sale. However, it is still important for buyers to have a building inspection before the auction to ensure they are aware of any potential issues with the property. A cooling-off period does not apply if you buy a property at an Auction or exchange contracts the same day as the auction after it passed in. You need to arrange your pre-purchase building inspectionsbefore the Auction!
Clear View Property Inspections is here to help you make informed decisions about your property. Building inspections are essential for maintaining the longevity and safety of your property.
Auction Pitfalls
Buying a property at auction in NSW can be a fast-paced and exciting process, but there are also potential pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common pitfalls to be aware of during a residential auction in NSW:
Overbidding
It is important to set a clear budget and stick to it during the auction. The pressure and excitement of the auction can lead to overbidding, which can result in paying more than the property is worth or more than the buyer can afford.
Lack of preparation
Buyers should conduct thorough research on the property and the local market to ensure they clearly understand the property’s value and potential issues. Failure to prepare adequately can lead to missed opportunities or unexpected issues with the property.
Inadequate finance
Buyers should have pre-approval for finance before the auction, as the sale is final and unconditional. Failure to secure adequate finance can result in the buyer being unable to complete the purchase.
Hidden costs
Buyers should be aware of additional costs associated with the purchase, such as stamp duty, legal fees, and building inspections. Failure to factor in these costs can result in unexpected financial burdens.
We can help identify potential structural defects that could lead to significant damage if left unaddressed. Cracks in the building’s structure can be indicators of potential structural failure.
Remember that in some cases, sellers often complete their pre-purchase building inspections for potential buyers. We strongly recommend not using these reports as a substitute for your arranged building inspection.
What to do Before Auction
Inspection before the auction
While there is no opportunity for a pre-purchase inspection after the auction, buyers can still have a building inspection conducted before the auction. This can help them identify any potential issues with the property before making a bid.
Inspection report
The inspection report can provide valuable information to the buyer regarding the property’s condition, which can be used to make an informed decision about whether to bid on the property.
Buyer beware
In an auction sale, the principle of “buyer beware” applies. This means that the buyer is responsible for conducting their own due diligence and is expected to have a reasonable understanding of the property’s condition before making a bid.
Prepurchase property inspections are crucial for potential buyers to assess the condition of a property before making a financial commitment. These inspections provide a thorough evaluation of the property’s structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, and overall condition.
It’s also important to note that, as a buyer, you won’t always want to rely on the vendor’s or the seller’s pre-purchase inspection. It’s not always in their best interest to perform a top-to-bottom building inspection, so to protect yourself, getting your pre-purchase building inspection is ideal.
As we often hear, you get what you pay for, and the cheapest pre-purchase building inspection won’t always be your best bet. After all, when you’re buying a home, something as important as a pre-purchase building inspection, you want to make sure you’re working with a trustworthy building inspector!
In NSW, the Swimming Pools Act 1992 and its accompanying regulations govern the regulatory framework for swimming pool inspections. These laws promote safety in swimming pool environments and prevent accidents, injuries, and drownings. They outline the obligations of both pool owners and local authorities in maintaining pools that comply with safety standards.
To ensure the safety of young children, it is important to have fencing that restricts their access to the pool area. Pool owners should also obtain a valid pool safety certificate after a satisfactory inspection by a licensed inspector. This certificate serves as proof that the pool meets all relevant safety requirements. Additionally, maintaining proper water quality and regularly testing and treating the water is necessary for safe and sanitary conditions in the pool. Adequate filtration, cleaning, and equipment maintenance are crucial factors in ensuring pool safety.
There are numerous challenges faced in enforcing the legislation, including inadequate rates of inspections by local councils and inconsistent enforcement. This emphasizes the importance of thorough and regular inspections to ensure pool safety compliance.
Swimming Pools Act 1992
This legislation acts as the main regulatory tool for swimming pools in NSW, setting out the legal obligations for pool construction, operation, upkeep, and safety. It applies to all types of swimming pools, including residential ones found in homes and commercial and public pools.
Swimming Pools Regulation 2018
This regulation offers comprehensive guidelines and criteria for adhering to the requirements of the Swimming Pools Act. It encompasses various elements of ensuring swimming pool safety, such as fencing and barriers, signage, water quality, and upkeep obligations. Additionally, the regulation outlines protocols for conducting pool inspections, obtaining compliance certificates, and implementing enforcement measures.
Pool Owners’ Responsibilities
Pool owners in NSW have certain obligations to ensure the safety and adherence of their swimming pools under the regulatory framework. These responsibilities include:
Registering Pools
Pool owners must register their swimming pools on the NSW Swimming Pool Register online, administered by the state government. This allows local authorities to access pool information and facilitates efficient inspection and compliance processes.
Installing Pool Fencing and Barriers
Pool owners must install appropriate fencing and barriers that meet all relevant regulations. This involves maintaining proper standards regarding height, construction, gates, latches, and self-closing mechanisms for pool barriers.
In Sydney, there have been low levels of compliance with pool safety regulations in the past, with only a small percentage of pools meeting the required standards.
Local Authority Responsibilities
Local councils and other authorised bodies play a vital role in enforcing swimming pool regulations by conducting routine inspections. These inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards, identify potential hazards or non-compliance issues, and recommend improvements.
Compliance Certificates
If a pool meets the inspection requirements, the local governing body will provide a pool safety certificate confirming that the pool adheres to the necessary safety standards. This certificate remains valid for a designated period, typically three years until another inspection is required. To ensure compliance with swimming pool regulations, local authorities possess enforcement measures such as penalty notices and fines, rectification orders, or even legal action against owners who do not comply with the rules.
Clear View pool certifier sydney – pool safety inspections and certifications
What are the risks of purchasing a home if certain parts are inaccessible during the inspection?
Plain and Simple HIGH. There may be concealed termite damage or potentially active termites, and unfortunately, not much can be done if an area cannot be physically inspected. Generally, an experienced inspector can still have an inclination of the likelihood of major defects within a concealed area based on the condition of the rest of the property.
At Clear View Property Inspections, we try to use the latest technology equipment to combat these situations, but it’s never a guarantee without physically inspecting all areas. Luckily, in most cases, your building inspector will try to squeeze in the tightest of locations.
Unfortunately, we have seen too often inspectors say certain areas were not accessible only to find out they didn’t want to crawl through a muddy or tight subfloor or tight roof cavity. This always comes back to the fees you pay! Have you heard of the saying, pay peanuts and get monkeys!
At Clear View Property Inspections, our team of experienced inspection personnel is experienced in identifying different types of building defects that may impact the overall condition of the property.
I see properties every day in the Sydney market, from investment properties, new home purchases, new builds and building reports, over the last 12 months, I have seen everything possible. Below is a summary of the trends I have seen, gaining insight from Domain, RealEstate.com.au and meetings with Sydney’s top real estate agents. Some of their findings are summarised here.
Sydney Property Market Review 12 Months
The possible outcome of the Sydney property market in 2023 might concern many. In 2023, Sydney marked Australia’s second most robust housing market, with substantial growth of over 24% observed in several areas. Over the past forty years, the Sydney property market has showcased remarkable strength and consistency. Towards the end of 2022, there was a visible deceleration in price growth within two prominent housing markets – Sydney and Melbourne – due to increasing affordability challenges.
It’s essential to note that property cycles are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including economic conditions, government policies, immigration, housing supply, and consumer sentiment.
Home Buyers are not Rushing In
Last year, there was a rise in property values across nearly every area of Sydney, which is atypical. However, the housing market in Sydney has experienced sluggish growth in the first quarter of this year. Despite this, transactions are still taking place. The number of new properties listed for sale in Sydney is decreasing, and buyers are currently being more deliberate and thoughtful in their decision-making process.
FOMO (fear of missing out) is no longer a driving factor for buyers, who are now less inclined to make hasty decisions or compromise as they did in the past. Looking ahead, there will be a shift towards prioritizing quality, leading to a more typical property market segmentation across various sectors of the Melbourne real estate market. There is evident demand for A Grade homes and “investment grade” properties due to their limited availability, while B Grade properties are experiencing prolonged sales periods. Informed buyers are actively steering clear of C Grade properties.
Investors and homebuyers in Sydney should closely monitor market conditions and seek professional advice when making real estate decisions, as the property market can be subject to both short-term fluctuations and long-term trends. These insights from Sydney’s top real estate experts highlight the impact of various factors on the residential investing landscape.
Shift in Auction Clearances
Sydney’s auction clearance rates have shifted from around 80% to 60%, indicating a transition from a seller’s market to one favouring buyers. In the future, Sydney’s property market is anticipated to become more segmented, reflecting a “normal” property market where some locations will see steady rises in property values, others moderate increases, and some may experience stagnation or declines based on local affordability and supply-demand dynamics.
By the end of 2023, it is probable that “overall” housing prices will increase by 6-7% compared to the beginning of the year, while unit values are expected to rise by 5%. Sydney’s property market experienced a decrease of -0.3% in the past week and -0.9% from last month but has seen an overall increase of 10.8% over the last year. Despite this, there is still potential for further growth; however, new property listings have slowed down price growth and provided buyers with more options.
Such reports provide valuable information about the property’s current state, allowing homeowners to address any existing issues and ensure that the project is completed safely and within compliance with building codes and regulations.
Property Buying and the next 12 months
Despite the challenging conditions for Sydney sellers, there are some positive signs. According to Domain, buyer demand has risen by 9 per cent, and Sydney’s auction clearance rate remains stable. However, there is still a shortage of quality properties for sale to meet the high demand for homes in Sydney, especially in affluent inner and middle-ring suburbs.
Although the increase in property supply provided buyers with more options and moderated auction clearance rates and house price growth towards the end of the year.
Additionally, with the recent reopening of international borders, Sydney can expect an influx of new residents, which may further strain our property markets, particularly rental needs.
More recently, economically successful global cities have become a focal point for local and international real estate investment, further widening the gap between house prices and local wages. This has led to affordability issues in many areas of Sydney and Melbourne previously considered more accessible for first-home buyers.
The property market can exhibit regional variations within the broader Sydney metropolitan area, with some suburbs and property types performing differently during different cycles. This can be attributed to factors such as location, infrastructure development, population growth, and demand for certain types of housing.
Buyers Moving Back into Sydney
As demonstrated by researchers, affordable properties are scarce at the lower end of the market in these cities. Furthermore, price disparities exist in each town, with Sydney’s market primarily catering to “battlers” while a student population characterizes Melbourne’s housing. The disparity becomes even more apparent when comparing Sydney to other capital cities over an extended period. Although there was no significant up-trend before the 1950s, substantial increases were observed in real terms for both prices and rents.
In addition to this, the discrepancy between markets inside major capitals or regional hotspots like Byron Bay or Wollongong continues, as well as beachside suburbs becoming strong performers despite sluggish high-rise towers. Investors are now entering the Sydney market, acknowledging the absence of bargains but foreseeing current purchases turning into advantageous deals down the line.
Conduct a comprehensive termite inspection to prevent infestations and identify infested areas for treatment. The termite treatment process in NSW varies based on the extent of the infestation, the type of termites present, and the specific treatment method used.
Inspection
A licensed pest controller will thoroughly inspect the property to determine the extent of the termite infestation and identify the type of termites.
We will come to you with the only detection tool available that can precisely detect termites without the penetration of walls, floors or ceilings.
Treatment plan
A plan outlining recommended treatment methods and any necessary follow-up actions will be developed based on the inspection results.
Preparation
Homeowners should prepare the property for treatment by removing obstacles or items hindering access to affected areas if advised by professionals.
Pest Controller
The pest controller will apply the treatment according to the treatment plan, which may involve chemical or non-chemical methods. Follow-up inspections will be scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure the elimination of any remaining termite activity. The homeowner will receive advice on preventative measures, including regular termite inspections, reducing moisture levels in the home, and removing potential food sources for termites.
It’s important to note that the termite treatment process can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the infestation. Homeowners should consult with a licensed pest controller for advice on the best course of action and obtain multiple quotes from reputable pest controllers with experience in termite treatment.
Investing in an annual termite inspection is not just a precautionary measure, but a smart investment to protect the value and integrity of your property.
A building condition report is a comprehensive assessment of the condition and functionality of a building. It includes thoroughly inspecting the building’s structural elements, mechanical systems, and overall maintenance. A qualified and experienced building inspector or engineer typically conducts this report. It is essential to gather estimates from multiple accredited building inspectors in Sydney to gain a more thorough grasp of the precise expenses for your circumstances. Furthermore, it’s important to clearly define the scope of the inspection and reporting procedures in order to guarantee a comprehensive assessment of the property. The costs provided here are approximate and subject to change, so it’s advisable to consult local inspection services for current information.
In addition to their training, our building inspectors are highly experienced in the field. They have several years of experience conducting inspections and have worked on various types of construction projects.
Typical Costs
The cost of a building condition report can vary depending on the size and complexity of the building, as well as the qualifications and experience of the inspector. It is important to note that different countries or regions may have specific regulations or guidelines for building condition assessments.
Residential Properties
Standard Home Inspection: Cost: $300 – $700. Incorporates a simple evaluation of the property’s state, encompassing structural elements, plumbing, electrical systems, and other essential parts.
Comprehensive Inspection: Cost: $700 – $1,500. A thorough investigation of the premises, comprising a comprehensive assessment of each section’s state, possible concerns, and suggestions.
Commercial Properties
Small to Medium-sized Buildings: Cost: $1,000 – $5,000. Depending on the size and complexity of the commercial property, the expenses can differ. This may involve a comprehensive examination of structural components, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, and more.
Large or Complex Buildings: Cost: $5,000 – $15,000. Conducting a more comprehensive inspection and providing detailed reports for larger or more complex commercial buildings can lead to increased expenses.
Specialized Inspections
Heritage Buildings or Sites: Cost Varies. Assessing heritage properties may necessitate specialized evaluations, and the expenses can fluctuate depending on the expertise level required.
Environmental Assessments: Cost Varies. If environmental testing or assessment is necessary due to potential hazards like asbestos or lead, it could result in extra expenses.
Building Compliance
To ensure compliance and accuracy, it is recommended to consult the building condition assessment manual or relevant codes of practice for specific requirements.
The procedure for assessing the state of a building involves conducting a thorough evaluation of its structural elements, mechanical systems, and overall maintenance. This evaluation is typically carried out by a qualified professional, such as a building inspector or engineer.
Such reports provide valuable information about the property’s current state, allowing homeowners to address any existing issues and ensure that the project is completed safely and within compliance with building codes and regulations.
Building Inspector
The professional will inspect various aspects of the building, including its foundation, roof, walls, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and HVAC systems. They will also assess the condition of any additional features or amenities, such as elevators, security systems, and fire safety measures. This assessment may involve visual inspections, testing of systems and equipment, reviewing documentation and records, and potentially using technology such as thermographic imaging or moisture meters.
A building inspector completing pre-lining report
Ideally, the best person for the job would be a builder or a building consultant. The cost of a building report will vary depending on the size of the property and its location. When organising an inspection, you will be asked a few questions so that the inspector has an idea of the size of the job and how long it may take him to complete the inspection and condition report, and they will be able to give you a quote.
There is a better time to choose the cheapest option because you get what you pay for, and if it’s cheap, there is a reason for it. Maybe they rush the inspection and only spend a short time on location, or maybe they don’t use equipment such as a drone to inspect areas the inspector can’t get to. Will the report take long to receive? These are the questions you need to ask to determine exactly what they are offering you with their service when you are quoted. When spending hundreds of thousands of dollars and sometimes millions of dollars on a property, this is not the time to skimp to the cheap option, this is the time to choose the best quality service.
