A number of recent news articles on balcony collapses is a critical reminder to anyone holding gatherings on their decks or balconies, it’s essential that they are maintained to minimise the chance of injuries or at worst fatalities of friends or family.

The concerning cases of balcony failure are becoming more and more common, and although the risks increase as the age of the structure increases, it is just as important that checks are carried out on new construction, and that documentation is checked – new buyers should request evidence of building approval, to confirm that balconies are built in line with the Building Code of Australia and relevant Australian Standards.  Essentially the structure must be able to withstand the loads and stresses that would be reasonably expected to be placed upon it, and decks can easily be built without the statutory checks and balances.  See article is a building inspection really worth it?

With regard to existing structures, it is essential that any timber is checked for decay, weathering, rusted steel components or brackets, deflection, or other defects that can trigger failure of the structural members.  Concrete balconies must be checked for cracking, spalling and corroded steel reinforcement.

Large well-watered vegetation or pot plants can fast-track any deterioration, and a group of guests concentrated in a corner can instantly have devastating effects. In addition to the suffering incurred as a consequence of any collapse, there will also be costs to repair damage and the possibility of legal action that will need to be attended to.

If you are looking at purchasing a house or apartment with a balcony, you might consider engaging an expert to provide a report specifically on the balcony.  Here at Melbourne House Check we conduct very thorough Pre-Purchase or New Home Building Inspections which will always include checking the condition of any balconies or decks that are present.  

Call now on 1300 729 352 to speak to one of our very experienced inspectors about any queries you may have or to obtain a quote. Online enquiries or further information can also be found at melbournehousecheck.com.au

When undertaking a typical building inspection of a dwelling with brick or masonry cladding, one thing we always look at in detail is the condition of the brickwork.  This can tell us alot about the condition of the foundations below.  Cracked, leaning or rotating walls are a problem for many homeowners. These issues are normally caused by a foundation problem. If your foundation walls have begun to crack or lean, it may lead to other structural issues throughout the rest of the home.  It is vitally important to watch for the signs of foundation movement. That way, you can contact a foundation repair specialist as soon as you notice the problem to avoid further damage to your home.

Foundation movement can be caused by a number of reasons.  The most common issue that we encounter is excess pressure from the ground around the foundation, caused by groundwater and/or poor drainage.  This excess pressure causes the foundation to shift, and the cracks that open up can lead to further moisture penetration, and they will continue to deteriorate over time, or until they are repaired.

An issue that one of our inspectors encountered recently at a building inspection in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, was where a garage had been demolished, but the common boundary wall was left in position along the driveway (kids playing cricket and other ball games against the wall).  With the perpendicular walls and roof structure removed, the remaining wall lost all form of bracing, and it was noted by the inspector to be leaning excessively.  The wall was deemed to be structurally unsafe and posed as an immediate safety hazard.

Would you risk your safety or the safety of your family knowing that this wall could topple at any moment?

It is not always obvious to the untrained eye whether such defects are a safety concern.  It was fortunate that an inspection was carried out in order to avert potential disaster.

If you are looking at purchasing a property or have a concern with the one you are currently occupying, Melbourne House Check conduct building inspections Melbourne wide.

Please call to discuss any issues with our experienced team of inspectors or to obtain a quote on 1300 729 352. You can also find some further information or fill out an enquiry form online at melbournehousecheck.com.au

Related articles: 

1. Is a building inspection really worth it?
2. Inspection nightmare
3. Buying a house? A must read

DIY Home renovations can be a great way to save money. If you have been thinking about getting into the property market, and conducting your own renovations on a “fixer upper” or even planning to update and make a few changes to your own home, you are not alone. Well planned and executed renovations can add considerable value to a home, however if you do not have adequate experience or the necessary skills, it can lead to poor finishes. While the internet has opened up an endless supply of knowledge, watching a few DIY television shows such as The Block, or House Rules is no substitute for years of on-site experience and training.

Very often our inspectors here at Melbourne House Check encounter homes that have been poorly renovated (eg poor paintwork or tiling, poorly fitted cabinetry and flooring, or renovations are incomplete due to the owner realising the work was over their head and has resulted in the dreaded ‘Money Pit’.

Regardless of the task, whether it is painting or knocking down a wall, planning ahead is the key. A successful and high quality renovation hinges on thorough research and well thought out planning and budgeting. We recommend discussing your renovation project with professionals and skilled tradespeople before commencing your work.

When Melbourne House Check complete a Pre-Project or Pre-Purchase Building Inspection, our inspectors are able to provide advice as to the complexities of any renovations you might be considering and answer any questions you might have. We can identify problems which might be encountered along the way, and any areas that might need initial attention.

So if you feel that you are ready to take the bull by the horns and start renovating, we are here to assist in any way we can. For an inspection on your home, extensions, investment property or other, please contact us today at melbournehousecheck.com.au or call our team on 1300 729 352.

This is the question many people ask when looking for a new property. Sometimes it is about saving a few bucks when financially strained, other times a last minute decision to purchase, means time restrictions are placed on obtaining a building inspection in Melbourne, and a decision is made not to proceed.

A pre-purchase building inspection conducted by a qualified inspector can provide home buyers with a number of invaluable insights. The decision NOT to get an inspection can be a huge mistake and cost an ill-informed buyer large sums of money once the expensive and potentially dangerous defects arise after settlement of a house.

A short-term saving achieved by forgoing such an inspection can turn into a longer-term nightmare if there are structural defects, building defects, unapproved structures and potential risks from future water damage or asbestos linings. Buyers who invest in them go into a property purchase with peace of mind, or with their eyes fully open and are able to budget for subsequent costs.

At Melbourne House Check, a full Building and Pest Report on a standard sized house can be completed for the reasonable price of $590.00 (inc GST). We pride ourselves on offering some of the most reasonable rates in the industry and time after time, the thorough work of our professional inspectors has prevented many clients from making avoidable – and very costly – mistakes when purchasing, renovating or performing maintenance on a property. We use state of the art equipment such as a Termitrac T3i infra-red radar device and moisture sensor to detect active termites in wall cavities and places that are not visually accessible

If you are looking for a property and considering whether to obtain the professional opinion of an experienced inspector, please ask yourself whether an additional $590.00 would have much bearing in the long term. Compared to if you opt not to proceed and are unaware of extensive foundation problems or other costly problem down the track.

If however you have decided to proceed with an inspection, but are shopping around for the best price – you will find costs vary considerably in the industry. For the companies charging in excess of $700.00 – $1,000.00, this is above what is considered a reasonable price for a building and pest inspection and the reports are often less detailed and the inspectors often have less experience than us here at Melbourne House Check. On the other hand, cheaper quotes can often mean inexperienced inspectors and an inferior report. Please be aware there is no regulatory body in the state of Victoria to ensure building inspectors are suitably qualified or experienced.

Inspectors here at Melbourne House Check have over 20 years experience each in the building industry, including trade backgrounds, engineering degrees, and other qualifications.

Please call us on 1300729352 or contact us online at melbournehousecheck.com.au with any queries which can be answered by our experienced staff. We conduct inspections Melbourne wide and are waiting for your call.

A pre-purchase inspection with Melbourne House Check is an investment in your future!