What is Rising Damp?

Are you planning to purchase a home soon? Or perhaps you’ve noticed bubbling paint in some of your rooms and are wondering whether you should be concerned?

Rising damp is one of the most common building issues in Australia. Unfortunately, if left untreated, it can lead to serious issues both for you and your property.

In this article, we’ll define rising damp before highlighting what causes the phenomenon to occur and how to fix the issue.

Rising Damp Definition

Rising damp is a form of damp that affects the walls of a building. This phenomenon occurs when the moisture from the ground travels up through the bricks or masonry, also known as ‘’capillary action’’.

It can usually be spotted on walls as it creates bubbling or flaking paint, leads to peeling plaster, or leaves tide marks on your walls. Note that it can also leave white fluffy salt deposits on the walls (leading to corrosion), cause mould issues, and lead to rotting window frames. While rising damp causes cosmetic problems such as flaky paint or crumbling of masonry, severe rising damp issues can also lead to severe structural damage to a building. Besides, in addition to creating structural damage such as sagging floorboards, it can lead to health damage due to mould exposure.  

Main Cause of Rising Damp

Properties are usually built with a damp-proof course between the foundations and the walls in order to prevent moisture absorption.

Rising damp is often caused by a lack of impermeable damp-proof course, meaning that there’s nothing to stop the water from travelling up into your brickwork. Besides, damp-proof courses can also be bridged with debris in the wall cavity, for instance. Rising damp might also occur If the external ground is higher than the damp-proof course.

Note that rising damp is often confused with damp caused by condensation. However, an easy way to check is to have a look at a section in the centre of the wall. If simple condensation is the cause of your trouble, the section won’t be damp.

How to fix Rising Damp

In order to fix rising damp, you’ll need to remove any contaminated plaster in your home before proceeding to inject a damp-proofing cream along the mortar course. Once you’re done, you’ll be able to replaster and redecorate your wall. You’ll also need to ensure that any land drainage, leak, or ventilation issues are addressed before starting to fix the rising damp. 

Off-Market Property Sales

An off-market property is a property that is transacted without hitting the general market. As a result, off-market properties aren’t advertised through usual channels, including real estate websites, and the buyers are carefully screened by the real estate agents or homeowners. This option is becoming increasingly popular and can prove extremely efficient in specific situations. Are you intrigued?

In this post, we’ve listed for you the benefits of selling or buying off-market before detailing how to buy an off-market property.

Off-Market Sales Benefits for Sellers

Sell Quickly

Some sellers are eager to sell their home quickly for various reasons, including relocating for work, having a new child and needing more space, or dealing with financial issues. If you’re in a hurry, selling your property off-market can be a great option as you won’t have to wait for professional photography to be taken, staging to be done, or listing to be ready. Your agent will also be able to tap into their network of buyers, meaning you won’t have to wait for momentum to build before hosting open house inspections.

Avoid Marketing Costs

Advertising your home on real estate websites can be costly (between $2,500 and $12,500 depending on the price of your property). Off-market buyers often focus on specific criteria such as location, number of bedrooms, etc., meaning they don’t expect the room to be staged or 100% pristine. This can save you thousands as sourcing new furniture and hiring the services of a home stager can prove expensive.

 

Organise Private Inspections

One of the main advantages of selling your property off-market is that you don’t have to host as many showings. Home inspections usually happen every Saturday, and some agents might even plan home inspections during the week to accommodate buyers’ schedules. This means you’ll have to clean and prepare the house for showings every time. Not to mention the fact that you’ll also have to clean up after the prospective buyers have gone. If agents organise viewings frequently, this might become a real hassle, especially if you have kids or are a busy professional.

Off-Market Sales Benefits for Buyers

Less Competition

Because the essence of an off-market sale is to be private, fewer people will know about it, potentially giving you the edge and perhaps room to negotiate terms without having to feel pressured by tens of potential other buyers. Off-market sales are more level-headed affairs and can therefore prove less stressful for buyers.

More Time to Make a Decision

When purchasing a property at auction, things can move very quickly, and if you really liked the property, you might find yourself caught in the middle of a bidding war, knowing that if you win, you’ll have to pay. This doesn’t give you much time to think, which can prove stressful when making such an important financial commitment. 

 

How to buy an off-market property?

Get onto real estate agents’ email lists

If you’ve narrowed down your search to a few areas and know exactly what you want, you should get in touch with real estate agents in these areas and ask them to add you to their email list. This will allow you to get notified before a property that fits your criteria hits the open market. You should also ring them regularly to stay at the front of mind and check their social media pages, as many mention their upcoming listings before advertising them.

Use a buyer’s agent

Buyers’ agents’ job is to be on the field, networking with real estate agents, and talking to homeowners. By connecting with them, you’ll be able to tap into their network and get them to source the perfect property for you.

Off-market property sales can represent a huge opportunity for buyers and sellers alike. Yet, there are also cons to selling or buying off-market. Therefore, you should always do your due diligence and make sure this is the best solution for you before considering this option.

Interior Design Trends 2021

Are you looking to jazz up your interior this year and are wondering what the latest design trends are?

2020 saw many of us spend more time at home, realising the importance of creating an inviting and comfortable space that can both enhance our creativity and productivity and help us relax and unwind after a long week. Therefore, the interior design world has never been so creative with textures, patterns, colours, and styles, which might feel overwhelming. No need to panic, though, as we’ve done some of the groundwork for you!

Nature-inspired elements

It’s no secret that connecting with nature is a great way to unwind, relax, and re-energise. And the great news is that with a few tweaks, homeowners and renters alike can bring the outdoors in, creating a natural vibe in their interior and turning their home into a peaceful sanctuary. And some of the most popular ways Aussies will incorporate nature into their interior in 2021 include:

Indoor trees and house plants

This year Aussies will be opting for lush and majestic trees such as the Banana tree Musa Basjoo or the Kentia Palm to turn their living space into a luxury tropical paradise. Other indoor plants such as indoor olive trees will also be used for a more Mediterranean feel. The sky's the limit when it comes to creating the perfect zen atmosphere with plants, so 2021 should see an uptake in indoor plants and trees across the board.

Organic materials

Nothing can give a place a more natural feel than organic materials. Adding a tropical Rattan accent table to a hallway or a jute rug and some linen curtains to a living room can immediately give a handcrafted and artisanal feel to a space reminiscent of the natural world.

Botanical and tropical wallpapers

Botanical and tropical wallpapers have been strong contenders over the last couple of years in the interior design world, and they are here to stay! Not only does a gorgeous botanical wallpaper add character to a space and can create a focal point that will significantly enhance a room, but it can also bring a natural, soothing vibe to a home interior, creating a Zen retreat. 

Textured Walls

This year is all about giving some texture to our interiors. Adding texture to a couple of walls can instantly inject some personality into our interiors, breathing life into a home. Whether using wooden countryside paneling, textured wallpapers, wooden tiles with a raw finish, marble or porcelain tiles, vinyl, faux brick, or concrete, 2021 will see homeowners experiment with their walls to add depth and dimension to their homes and jazz up their interior.

 

‘’Grandmillennial’’ Style

The Grandmillenial style or ‘’granny chic’’ trend is taking the interior design world by storm in 2021! The idea is to give a modern update to the traditional granny look and turn a dull home into a colorful and more traditional yet instagrammable space using carefully curated vintage elements.

As a result, old-fashioned patterns will become paramount. Polka dots, needlepoints, stripes, or butterfly and floral prints can be mixed and matched and really enhance the space if done properly. And not only is granny chic the perfect option to liven up our interiors, but it's also a way to come back to a comfortable space that feels homey and encourages our creativity after a busy day.

Therefore, in 2021, expect faux fur, drapery, ruffles, lace, tapestry, or pleats to come back strong as a fantastic way to incorporate classic materials into a 21st century home interior design.

Conducive Conditions for Termite Activity

Do you think your property might have termites? Are you looking for signs your home might be inviting to these unwanted guests?

Termites are one of the most common pests damaging properties in the country. Approximately one in three homes are affected by termites in Australia. These voracious insects mainly feed on dead wood and plants and are drawn to moisture and warmth. Therefore, any conditions that create moisture and warmth will represent an ideal terrain for them.

To help you assess whether your home is at risk of termite activity and whether you should request the help of a Pest Inspector, we’ve listed below some of the main conducive conditions for termite activity.

High Soil Line

A high soil line means that the ground is above the property’s foundations and is in direct contact with the brickwork, wood, or any other siding materials. Now, ideally, there should be some clearance between your property’s foundations and the brick veneer. This can help prevent water intrusion into the wall cavities and within the structure and therefore help protect your home against subterranean termites. Indeed, water intrusion in wall cavities creates dampness and moisture, which is highly conducive to wood-destroying insects such as termites.

Note that mulch stacked above the property’s foundations is also considered a ‘’high soil line’’ and is extremely conducive to termite activity.

 

Negative Grading

If your land has negative grading, it means that it slopes towards your home, allowing rainwater to flow towards your foundations. Among other issues, negative grading can cause water to accumulate near your foundations, creating puddles and turning your home into an inviting ground for termites!

Heavy Foliage

One of the most common conducive conditions to termite activity is linked to heavy vegetation. Indeed, if vegetation is growing or has been planted too close to the building or house, it can trap moisture, which in turn attracts termites. Besides, termites thrive on old stumps, dead wood, and other building materials. And storing wood close to your property will not only provide them with a significant food supply, but it will also prevent you from seeing them and identifying their entry point. Therefore, you should always clear the space around your foundations to avoid termite infestations.

The Building is not Treated

Treating the building or property is very important as it will help prevent termites from infesting your home. Pest inspectors will be able to protect your property with a preventive termite treatment by identifying termite activity and nests and performing a termite foaming or dusting treatment to neutralize these insects. They will also perform a perimeter treatment to prevent termites from accessing your lovely home in the future. If your property has undergone extensions or renovations in the past, we’d also recommend that you thoroughly check for joins between new and old constructions and ensure they’ve been treated too.

Termites can cause significant damage to your property and shouldn’t be treated lightly. Now, on the positive side, 90% of the time, conducive conditions are resolvable by general landscaping and ensuring no overgrown foliage is located near your foundations. At OneHome Inspections, we specialise in Building and Pest Inspections. If you’re wondering whether your home is protected against termites, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team on 3369 5231 so we can help you identify a potential termite infestation.

Common Defects found during a Pre-Purchase Building and Pest Inspection

Have you decided to purchase a property?

While this is certainly an exciting time for you, it might also be challenging and a bit stressful. After all, this will probably be the biggest financial decision of your life.

In addition to finding your dream home in the perfect location and making an offer, you’ll need to get a home loan pre-approval, shop around for mortgages, investigate interest rates, estimate extra costs, and organise your finances and conveyancing.

As things add up on your to-do list, it’s easy to overlook building inspection or even forget about the home inspection process altogether.

However, pre-purchase Building and Pest inspection are critical as they can save you from a lot of trouble down the track. Indeed, a pre-purchase building and pest inspection will allow a highly trained inspector to identify any defects the seller might have omitted to mention.

To help you better understand the importance of a pre-purchase building and pest inspection, we’ve listed below some of the most common defects that can arise during home inspections.

Structural Problems

Structural problems can be found in both old and new constructions, although they’re most common in older buildings or houses. They can range from damaged floor joists, foundation walls, and erosion to water damage, movement, cracks in the external walls, and window or door frames pulling away from the wall.

Structural problems can be costly to fix. That’s why having a thorough check of your property carried out by a professional can allow you to spot these issues early on and account for them if you decide to purchase the property regardless.

Retaining Walls

While a manicured garden around a retaining wall can enhance an outdoor area, you need to be careful when inspecting a home. Indeed, these walls haven’t been built for their aesthetics. They’re protective structures playing a critical role in holding back earth and soil and preventing land from sliding away. They’re also often used to terrace a piece of land and can help redirect flooding.

Unfortunately, an unstable or poorly constructed retaining wall might be hiding under lush vegetation. This could be disastrous as an unstable retaining wall can cost a lot to fix and even potentially lead to deadly consequences.

However, a professional will be able to identify inadequate drainage or any other common defects found in retaining walls, thus providing you with a better understanding of possible work and the costs involved.

Roof Damage

The Australian weather is known to be harsh due to the sun, the hail, or the heavy rain that punctuates the year. Unfortunately, this means that roofs are exposed to harsh elements and need to be well-maintained in order to last. As a result, it is very important to check the gutters and the roof for sagging, cracks, and leaks. This will save you from a bad surprise come the next storm season!

Pest Damage

1 in 4 homes in Australia will be infested with termites in their lifetime. Pests can damage your home and poison your life by hollowing out wood, eating carpets and timbers. Identifying pests and the damage they have incurred early on and coming up with a plan of action to get rid of them for good is therefore critical.

Do you want to know more about the benefits of booking a pre-purchase building and pest inspection? If that's the case, don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us on 07 3369 5231. We’d be happy to discuss your needs and how we can help.

Buying at Auction? Have you got a Building and Pest Report?

Buying a property at auction in Queensland is common due to the numerous advantages auctions offer to buyers, including speed and the avoidance of any negotiation process. However, you should be aware of some important rules before going to an auction.

Did you know once you have made the highest bid, you’re bound by law to purchase the property regardless of any subsequent issues that might be found in the property?

As a result, ensuring the property you have decided to purchase is the right choice and doesn’t hide any bad surprises is paramount. That’s why you should always commission a qualified building inspector to thoroughly check the property before the auction.

Why is a Building and Pest Inspection Important?

By law, vendors are required to disclose any known concerns regarding the property. However, they are not required to disclose structural faults with the building.

Approximately, 25% of Queensland properties display structural defects. Therefore, when you purchase a property at auction without organising a building and pest inspection prior, you put yourself at risk of owning a property with structural issues. Indeed, as mentioned in the introduction, if you’re the highest bidder, once the hammer falls, you’re bound to buy the property whether or not you’ve organised the appropriate inspections beforehand.

Structural defects can be costly to repair and add to the cost of your investment. Besides, dealing with building issues can be a source of frustration and stress.  

As a result, you should make sure to commission a building and pest inspector before so you can bid with peace of mind on auction day.

What does a Building and Pest Report Entail?

The building and pest report will give you a detailed picture of the current state of the property, providing you with the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.

Independent building and pest inspectors will be looking at a variety of issues, including:

 ●     Cracks in the walls

●     Dampness, rust, mould, or leaks

●     Bathroom damage

●     roof leaks

●     Rotting timber

●     Timber Pests

●     The functionality of windows and doors

●     Rising damp

●     Significant building defects

●     Faulty roof

●     Any safety hazards

Note that the list above is not exhaustive, but it is designed to give you a good idea of what the thorough check will cover.

How Much Does a Building and Pest Report Inspection Cost?

The cost for a Building and Pest Inspection varies based on the size of the property. To get a quote for your property please contact us on 07 3369 5231.

Organise a Building and Pest Report in Brisbane?

Keep in mind that when it comes to Building and Pest Inspections, the company you choose to partner with is critical. You need to commission highly qualified Inspectors so that you can ensure you’ll get an objective report highlighting all of the issues and potential risks.

If you would like to book your pre auction Building and Pest Inspection, please contact us on 07 3369 5231. We look forward to helping you with your property purchase journey!

Tree Roots … the root to many problems

Have you always dreamt of a lush and blossoming garden that would make anyone with green thumbs envious?

A manicured, well-thought-out garden can soothe your mind while bringing you joy and happiness as you get to enjoy it. But it can also significantly increase the value of your home if you ever decide to sell it.

Whether creating a brick patio corner surrounded by mature trees and flowering bushes or adding plant beds filled with ornamental trees along the path, a gorgeous and lush garden can become a genuine asset.

Yet, having a garden is not all roses (pun intended)!

Tree roots can lead to severe damage to your property, breaking through your sewer line, or damaging your foundations, costing thousands of dollars to fix.

To help you spot tree-root-related damage early on, we’ve outlined below the kind of damage tree roots can create and how to fix the issue.

Foundation Damage

Foundation damage is quite rare if you maintain your foundations. However, if strong trees are close enough to your house and your concrete foundations already have existing cracks, the trees’ root systems might very well be impacting your foundations. In the event that foundations are damaged by tree roots, it’s pretty common to see the tree roots spreading underneath a house's footings and coming back up to disperse themselves wherever they can. The reason for this is that tree roots are trying to access the water. As a result, they spread under the house, trying to reach the water line underneath the house.

Tips:

• If you’ve ascertained the tree root system is responsible for damaging your foundations, here are a few tips on what to do to prevent further damage:

• Before planting your trees, install root barriers to divert the root systems away from your houses’ foundations.

• Ask a tree trimming professional to cut the roots affecting your foundations and install root barriers.

• If the root system is spreading too quickly, you might have to ask a tree removal professional to come and remove the tree and its root system.

Plumbing Damage

With a loose joint or small crack into your water pipes and plumbing system, you could soon find yourself with a tree-root problem! You’ve probably guessed it; the roots are spreading to reach a water source. Some of these issues’ common symptoms include slowly flowing drains even after flushing treatment or changes in your water pressure.

Tips:

As always, using an expert is often the best option when it comes to tree-root damage. A tree trimming expert will be able to carefully remove the problematic section, and a plumber will be able to replace the pipe. As long as the pipe is sealed properly, you shouldn’t run into the issue again.

Driveaway Damage

Tree roots growing under your pavements or driveways can create a tripping hazard as they stick up through concrete cracks. As a result, if you observe cracks along your driveway, patios, or paths or see tree roots leading towards these areas, you should follow the steps below:

• Install root barriers. If you manage to do this before the roots actually reach the concrete, you’ll be able to stop the root system from spreading further towards your driveaway.

• You can also cut the roots before installing the root barriers.

• If you feel like the tree roots are spreading too quickly, cut the tree and remove the root system. This will allow you to level the surface again and prevent any further issues.

 

Landscape Damage

While trees are a gorgeous addition to any garden as they provide shade, colour, and life, they can also encroach on other plants and turn your beautiful space into a messy area that’s harder to maintain. Trees might be competing for water and nutrients with other plants, starving your stunning flowers and bushes, thus ruining your attempt to create a thriving garden.

Tips:

If you want to create flower beds or add plants near your mature trees, make sure you pick species that can tolerate difficult growing conditions and purchase baby plants as they will require fewer nutrients.

Ready to work on your lovely garden yet? Make sure you follow these tips to create a blossoming garden on a worry-free property for years to come

Why Get a Pre-Sale Building and Pest Inspection?

Many buyers choose to do a pre-purchase building and pest inspection. Purchasing a property is an important financial commitment, and buyers want to ensure the property they purchase doesn’t hide any surprises.

As a result, knowing buyers will do their due diligence, an increasing number of sellers also commission a pre-sale building and pest inspection. By anticipating and commissioning a licensed inspector, sellers can obtain a list of things that might be wrong with the property and have the opportunity to fix these things before the sale. Are you wondering whether it’s really necessary?

To help answer this question, we’ve listed below some of the main benefits of organising a pre-sale building and pest inspection.

Small Issues Can be Fixed

An Inspector will be able to identify and assess minor issues or imperfections such as loose roof tiles or leaking taps. This will allow you to fix these issues before the sale and ensure a smooth selling process. Besides, buyers always favour a property that has been thoroughly checked and fixed up as it will save them time, money, and hassle. It will also reassure them your property was well maintained and cared for.

Gives You Confidence over the Negotiation Process

Let’s imagine you decide not to go ahead with a pre-sale building and pest inspection, and a couple of potential buyers express their interest in the house. If they’re really interested, they’ll most likely organise their own pre-purchase building and pest inspection. Let’s assume the thorough report reveals some issues. While minor issues might not deter them from buying your property, it will certainly give your potential buyers a certain negotiation power over you.

Organising a pre-sale inspection before putting your house on the market will allow you to know exactly the current state of your home and establish a price according to the information you were provided. It can also enable you to rectify any issues prior to the sale and avoid any surprises comes the time for buyers to visit your house, thus strengthening your negotiation power and minimising stress.

Your Property Appeals to more Buyers

Most buyers want to purchase a property where no work is required. While many buyers are happy to paint the walls or replace the carpet, most of them don’t want to buy a property with major renovation work to undertake. This is especially true for the kitchen and bathroom as this type of renovations can be costly and quickly add to the initial investment.

As a result, being able to certify thanks to your pre-sale inspection that your property is damage, hazard and pest-free can be a big asset and set you apart from the competition.

Are you considering putting your property on the market? At OneHome Inspection, we specialise in pre-sale building and pest inspections and always strive to provide our customers with high-quality reports to help them fulfill their property dream. Don’t hesitate to get in touch here, as we’d love to assist you!

Damaged Asbestos Materials in Residential Properties, an Extreme Health Hazard

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that used to be added to many construction materials to strengthen them, provide heat insulation and water and fire resistance for buildings and homes.

This popular fiber was widely used in Australia before the 2000s in the construction industry due to its numerous benefits. However, its use was progressively phased out due to the health risk it can pose in certain situations, and it was banned from Australia in 2003. Yet if your property was built before 2003, it most likely contains asbestos materials.

We’ve drafted this post to help you better understand the risks and assess whether you should get your property checked.

Damaged asbestos is a health hazard

Breathing high level of asbestos fibers can cause serious conditions such as:

•  Lung cancer

• Asbestosis; a long-term inflammation and scarring of the lungs

• Mesothelioma; malignant lung tumor

The risk of developing lung cancer due to asbestos exposure increases based on the amount and type of asbestos inhaled. When materials that contain asbestos are disturbed or damaged (in the event of drilling, sanding, or breaking, for instance), they may release the deadly fiber into the aid and be inhaled by the home’s occupants.

What materials contain asbestos?

The most common items that could have contained asbestos in the past and may pose a health threat today include:

• Insulated steam pipes

• Asbestos cement roofing

• Insulation in homes built before the 1980s

• Backing and adhesive to floor tiles

• Cement sheets used around stoves

• Seals on stoves

• Soundproofing and decorative materials sprayed on walls and ceilings

• Patching and joint compounds

• Textured paints

Where can asbestos be found in a house?

Some common spots where asbestos can be found in a home are as follows:

• Bathroom

Asbestos can sometimes be found on the back of wall tiles or in cement sheet walls.

• Kitchen

When it comes to your kitchen area, asbestos could be found in the walls, ceilings, or in vinyl floor tiles.

• Living Room

Asbestos can be found in wood heaters’ insulation and in the cement sheeting in walls and ceilings.

• Backyard

There could be asbestos in your fences, garden shed, or even in your carports.

What to do if you suspect your home contains asbestos?

To ensure the materials you’re suspecting aren’t releasing any asbestos into the air, you should always acquire the services of a qualified professional. They’ll take a sample and get it analysed to confirm whether or not your home contains asbestos preventing you from putting your health and that of those around you at risk. Now, according to asbestos professionals, if the material containing asbestos is in good condition, it’s best to leave it undisturbed. Once you know you have undamaged asbestos in your home, you can regularly check for signs of tears, water damage, and abrasions on the materials to ensure it doesn’t turn into a health hazard.

Note that if you’re planning renovations and you suspect the areas you’ll be renovating feature materials containing asbestos, you should ask a qualified professional for their opinion before proceeding.

Do you suspect your property has asbestos? As mentioned in this article, damaged asbestos can cause long-term, life-threatening health conditions and should always be taken seriously. Therefore, make sure to get it checked as soon as possible so it can be safely removed from your home.

Considerations before Buying a Queenslander Style Home

Queenslander homes are often filled with a century of charm, and many fall in love for their elegant and sophisticated details.

Yet, you shouldn’t let the beauty and charm of Queensland houses deter your attention from potential issues. After all, these heritage homes are old for the most part and can present severe structural defects and other damage if they haven’t been appropriately maintained.

Therefore, to help you get one step closer to purchasing the perfect house for you and your family, we’ve listed below a few key things to consider before buying a Queenslander-style home.

Ongoing Maintenance

Old Queenslander homes are notorious for requiring regular maintenance. Some of them can also be real fixer-uppers which can ultimately turn out to be costly.

Some of the common ongoing maintenance tasks with this type of home include easing windows, painting timber and weatherboards, replacing rotting timber, or washing the house once a year. They also often have uneven floors and lack proper insulation. And as you might know, replacing floors or insulating your house can also be costly. As a result, make sure you do your research before purchasing your dream property.

Note that your Queenslander house will most likely need a fresh coat of paint every 10 to 15 years due to the heat that leads to timber expanding and contracting. If you’re thinking of renovating your home, you’ll have to check the restrictions regarding historic properties.

Potential Structural Defects

Structural defects are often spotted in these old homes. Rotten and cracked stumps are two of the most common structural defects in Queenslander Homes. Therefore, you should always use the service of a professional to ensure the house is structurally sound. Indeed, a Pre-Purchase Building and Pest Inspection report will highlight the extent of the issues and the costs involved, allowing you to make a more informed decision.

Low Ceilings

Many old Queenslander houses have a built-in downstairs area that can be converted into a bedroom, a storage room, a playroom, or a study. If you’ve fallen in love with one of these houses, and are tempted by the potential added value of this additional room, keep in mind that the ceiling height must be compliant with the National Construction Code to be deemed habitable. According to the Code, habitable rooms (including bedrooms) must have a ceiling of a minimum of 2.4m. Anything under these standards, and you won’t be able to advertise the room as a bedroom if you decide to sell.

Termite Protection

Termite feeds off timber. Therefore, Queenslander homes are the perfect playground for them. And, as you probably know, termites can cause severe structural damage, leading to thousands of dollars in repair. That’s why, once again, you should make sure to use the services of a professional Pest and Building inspector before purchasing a home. They’ll be able to identify any termite issue associated with fixing the issue and give you recommendations for an adequate treatment plan.

Character Profile

Many Queenslander houses are classified as character houses due to their historical and architectural significance. If you’re looking to renovate or extend your home, thus making alterations, you’ll need to ascertain the additions or alterations complement the original building style. You’ll also have to make sure these alterations are compliant with the building code of Australia and local standards. You’ll find more information on altering character houses here.

Queenslander homes are beautiful and can be a wonderful space for you to create memories with your family and friends. Yet, to ensure a successful purchase and a happy life, you should always turn to professional Building and Pest Inspectors so that they can assess the structural state of the home.

Have you found your dream home and are looking for a trusted Building and Pest Inspector? At OneHome Inspections, we’re passionate about quality building and construction, and we love to help future homeowners make informed decisions so that they can start this new exciting chapter of their life on the right foot! Don’t hesitate to get in touch on 3369 5231.

Buying an apartment? What to ask from the Body Corporate?

Are you considering buying an apartment? Congratulations!

Apartments present many advantages over houses, including a lower entry price. Yet when becoming the owner of an apartment, you’ll also be required to follow certain rules and laws as you’ll be joining a community of residents.

As a result, you should always do your due diligence before buying an apartment to make sure you’re the right fit for this community, understand potential issues related to the building and get familiar with building maintenance fees.

To make it easier for you, we’ve highlighted below some of the main things you should ask from the body corporate before proceeding.

Request Strata Inspection Report

You should always ask for the strata inspection report. A strata inspection report is a full review of the Owners Corporation records. Before purchasing a strata-titled unit or townhouse, make sure to always request the strata report to have visibility over potential issues you might have to deal with. However, keep in mind that not all strata reports are created equal. There is no standard for the report quality, so it’s important to know that the quality of the information and level of detail will depend on the person in charge.

• A good report should answer some of the questions below:

• Is the body corporate raising enough money to keep the building running?

• Is the body corporate saving enough for larger capital works?

• Do they have current capital works forecasts? Did a quality surveyor draft it? And does it contain a table with a recommended fund balance for every year?

• Is GST payable on levies, or is the current total income level close to the level where they’ll need to register?

• Is there a water meter, bulk electricity, etc.?

• Are there any building defects

Check the By-Laws

Before investing in a strata-titled property, you should always check the by-laws. By-laws can significantly impact your experience as an occupant since they regulate the common property’s use and the residents’ behaviour. As a result, make sure to familiarise yourself with both the body corporate by-laws and the state-based by-laws. Some of the most common by-laws examples include pet ownership, parking requirements, and noise levels.

Do Some Research on the Building

If you think you’ve found the right apartment or townhouse for you and your family, don’t forget to look at the bigger picture and check the building as a whole. Some key things you should pay attention to include parking areas, lifts, and any other common areas. Also, to improve your odds of investing in a great apartment in a well-maintained building, check the ratio of the owners to renters. If most occupants own their property, they’ll be more likely to look after the building.

Enquire about the Strata Fees

Strata-titled properties come with ongoing fees. These fees are allocated to maintaining the garden or courtyard, the building’s upkeep, common area maintenance, etc. Strata fees are not standard and can significantly vary depending on the building’s condition, cost of the cleaners, or the strata management’s efficiency.

Strata fees are an important part of investing in an apartment as they can make the difference between being able to afford the property or having to look elsewhere.

Checking if the House you Want to Buy has Building Approvals

You’re ready to purchase your first home or your next property. You have gathered all the necessary documents, and have a few listings lined up. You might even already have your eyes set on a specific property.

Yet, before investing a large amount of money into your dream home, you should always make sure that every structure of the building is approved.

As a result, we’d recommend that you get in touch with the building department at your local council as they’ll be able to provide you with a copy of the approved plans on record.

If you’re not familiar with the process, read on, as we’ve listed below a few things you need to keep in mind when it comes to building approvals.

What to Look Out For

As a rule of thumb and as mentioned above, buyers should always carry out a building approval search. Yet, if you're not convinced, here are some situations that can prompt you to apply for one:

• A property that features extensions or additions (including carports and decks).

• A newly renovated home.

• A raised house.

 

What to Do in Case of Unapproved Structures

If you sign an unconditional contract before discovering that some of the structures on the property don’t have the necessary council approvals, you probably won’t be able to terminate the contract. Therefore, this would leave you with two options: removing the non-complying structures or obtaining the required council approval.

That’s why you should always ensure all structures and parts of your home are approved before proceeding to sign a binding contract.

If you notice unapproved structures, such as alterations or extensions, you’ll need to discuss the problem with your solicitor upon receiving your building search. They should, in turn, raise the issue with the vendor and ask for the alterations or extensions to be approved prior to the purchase.

If you suspect that the house features some unapproved structures but aren’t sure, you can also ask to insert a special condition in the contract, giving you the necessary time to request a building search. The condition should also allow you to terminate the contract if you notice an extension or alteration that doesn’t appear on a building search.

How to Check Building Approvals

You can check whether a building has all the necessary approvals through a building search. There are five different types of building searches including:

• Building records search.

• Building inspections search.

• Certificate of classification.

• Property notices.

• Letter of information.

You’ll find more information on building search fees and how to lodge your application here.

Your dream to own a property or your desire to move onto your next home is at your fingertips. And you’re probably excited to get it all over with so you can finally move in and start this new adventure. Yet, doing your research meticulously and ensuring all structures have been approved before proceeding can go a long way in preventing you from additional financial and emotional stress and should therefore be a priority!

Retaining Wall Cracking and Movement

Are you about to purchase a property and have noticed cracks on one or more of the retaining walls?

Retaining walls are structural features designed to hold back soil and rocks. They can be used to provide usable land on sloped blocks, support a basement design built into a hill, slow the rainwater flow or help to slow downhill erosion that could otherwise threaten your home’s foundations. They’re often made of timber, concrete, or stone, timber being the least expensive option. As a result, they play an important role in your house design, and any crack or movement should be carefully monitored.

In this article, we’ve put together a few pointers to help you understand where these cracks or movements come from and what can be done about them.

Common Cause for Retaining Wall Cracking and Movement

Trees

Having trees in your garden and particularly close to the borders can be a great way to get some privacy while embellishing your outdoor space. Big, beautiful trees can also provide shade in summer, clean air, and add value to your property as part of a manicured garden. Yet, they can also cause some severe damage to your retaining walls, requiring thousands of dollars to fix. Indeed, planting large trees close to retaining walls can lead to wall deterioration as the extra pressure from the tree roots creates cracking or wall movement.

Therefore, if you’re looking to buy a property that has big trees close to retaining walls, make sure to factor in the cost of engaging an arborist to further investigate and advise. This will save you a lot of hassle down the road!

Poor Design and Drainage

Inadequate footing or reinforcement design is one of the most common causes of retaining wall movement. Indeed, inadequate footing or anchoring can lead to your retaining wall bulging out or tipping forward.

Rainwater and moisture are also another common culprit. Indeed, water or moisture building up behind your retaining walls can put immense pressure on it. Therefore, you need to ensure adequate drainage to avoid having to spend a lot of money on fixing or replacing your retaining wall later down the track.

Note that to be durable and efficient, retaining walls require subsurface drainage along the bottom, outlet points, and weep drains at appropriate intervals.

Termite Activity

Retaining walls and build sleepers used to build retaining walls are prone to termite infestation. A retaining wall can be extremely costly to replace, so if the property you’re interested in features old timber sleeper retaining walls, you should acquire the services of a pest inspector before purchasing it. They’ll be able to assess termite activity and come up with a plan.

Fixing Retaining Walls

• If the damage to your wall is not too severe, leave as is and regularly monitor for additional movement.

• Improve the drainage: as mentioned above, poor drainage can cause your retaining wall to crack or move due to the pressure of trapped water and moisture building up behind the wall. Therefore, enhancing drainage around the wall could be a good way to make your wall last longer.

• Another way to relieve the pressure on the retaining wall is to remove part of the soil or lower the soil behind the wall

• Reinforce the existing wall: depending on the extent of the damage and where the issue comes from (lack of vertical steel rods, not enough steel, etc.), you should get in touch with a structural engineer. You’ll be able to ask them for advice and see whether the wall can be reinforced instead of having to replace it entirely.

Built-In Downstairs? Is the Ceiling Height Compliant?

Whether you’re new to the property market or have been looking to purchase a home in Queensland for quite some time, you might have heard real estate agents mention that some homes come with a ‘’utility room’’ or ‘’rumpus room’’. These refer to the built-in downstairs area present in certain Queensland houses. While it might sound appealing to have an extra room, especially when thinking about selling your property in a few years, you still need to exercise some caution when it comes to a built-in downstairs. Some of these rooms are not ceiling-compliant, meaning they’re not deemed habitable and cannot be advertised as a bedroom or living area.

In this post, we’ll detail the legal ceiling height in Queensland and go through a few key things you should keep in mind when visiting such a house.

• A habitable room is a room used for normal domestic activities. It includes the bedrooms, the dining room, the lounge room, and the living room. However, it doesn’t include the bathroom, toilets or walk-in pantry. According to the National Construction Code, Volume 2, part 3.8.2, the minimum ceiling height relating to a habitable room in QLD is 2.4m.

• For non-habitable rooms such as the laundry room, hallway, and corridors, the ceiling height must be a minimum of 2.m. Note that the kitchen is considered a habitable room but falls under the non-habitable 2.1m rule.

• If the property has two floors and has staircases, the ceiling height must be a minimum of 2m from the bottom of the stairs to the next level.

• A property’s attic with a sloping roof can be used as a bedroom if at least 66% of the floor area has a ceiling height of 2.2m. However, any floor area with a ceiling height of 1.5m and under will have to be excluded from the floor area calculation.

• The measurements are from the finished floor to the lowest part of the ceiling, including any protrusion.

• If a room doesn’t meet this legal ceiling height requirement, it is not deemed habitable and is therefore called a utility room.

• Any alterations must be approved and certified to be compliant. Therefore, if there have been alterations done to the downstairs area ceilings, you’ll need to ensure that they have been approved and certified, thus making sure the room is deemed habitable.

As mentioned above, the appealing ‘’bonus room’’ could quickly turn out to be a forgotten storage room if the ceiling height is not compliant. Therefore, as always, if you’re in doubt or have any questions regarding built-in downstairs and ceiling height, we’d recommend that you talk to an expert beforehand so you can make an informed decision. It might save you a lot of hassle and headaches.

Summer – The Ideal Time for a Pest Inspection

Pests are More Active in Summer

The warm temperature in summer leads to termites and other pests such as cockroaches or rodents to be more active. The higher temperature helps them in their reproduction process, leading to a sharp increase in pest populations. Besides, with summer comes longer days, and since pests are more active during the daytime, they thrive during warmer months. Summer is ideal because, due to longer days, they enjoy multiple feeding period opportunities, thus supporting their reproduction and multiplication. 

Increased Moisture

Like all living beings, insects need water and moisture to survive. The spring season is usually characterised by a high amount of rainfall, and the wood in your building absorbs more water and moisture than usual during this season. Unfortunately, an increased water and moisture presence in wood combined with higher temperatures are the ideal conditions for termites and other pests to thrive and reproduce. 

Increased Food Source

During the warmer months of the year, sunlight, and moisture lead to vegetation proliferating. And plants and vegetation, in general, provide a great source of food for certain pests. Therefore, the summer months are seeing the most pest activity and can be the perfect time to request a pest inspection. 

Some Pests Hide in Winter

Termites and insects are cold-blooded and can die within a few minutes if the temperature drops below 0°C. As a result, they tend to dig tunnels and go back into the ground or nest inside buildings to keep warm, making it harder to see them.

Easier to See the Damage in Summer

Some pests such as termites build their nest in buildings and therefore depend on a building structure to survive. The increased pest population in summer can therefore lead to more damage as more insects feed on the wooden structure of your building. Therefore, booking an inspection in summer will make finding and eliminating termites and other insects much easier.

Are you worried about a potential pest infestation in your home? At OneHome Inspections, we specialize in pre-purchase and pre-sale pest inspections. Our building and pest inspector is highly trained to find pests and identify potential damage and will provide you with a thorough and accurate report. Don’t hesitate to get in touch here to discuss your needs.