Do I need a pest/termite report if I am buying a brick house built on a concrete slab?
Unfortunately the answer is yes. These homes still often have a wooden frame, and termites only need a 2mm gap in your bricks or mortar, drainpipes, eaves or ventilation areas to gain access to this timber. It is best to still have the house inspected – otherwise you could face an expensive repair bill further down the track.
How much does it cost?
Building and termite inspections are not all that expensive. Our services start from just $350.00 for a building inspection, and $540.00 for a combined comprehensive building and termite inspection.
How soon in advance should I book your service?
The more notice we receive the better. If you want to make an offer on a home, it is best to get in touch with us and arrange an inspection before you go ahead with the offer. If time is against you, try to ensure your offer is ‘subject to’ the property passing an inspection. It is best to seek legal advice to ensure your offer is worded correctly.
Do I need to be there when you inspect the property?
You are more than welcome to be present during the inspection, however it’s not a requirement. We converse directly with the agent or vendor in order to gain access to the property.
It is best to discuss the outcome once the inspection had been completed, as this allows the inspector to ensure a detailed analysis is carried out. Any issue, no matter how minor, will be covered in our report – so you can rest assured you won’t miss a thing.
What happens if you uncover any major issues?
If there are serious concerns regarding the property, you are best to seek legal advice, as there are a number of different things you may be able to do. You might be able to re-negotiate the price, request the defects to be amended prior to purchase, or you may choose not to buy the property at all.
Can you provide an urgent report?
We understand that in most cases, you’ll need a report in a hurry. We’re usually able to provide a next-day service for those in Melbourne’s west, and we can phone through our results as soon as the inspection is complete. A full written report will be available within 24 hours.
How do I pay for the service?
We accept a number of payment methods for your convenience. You can pay via Direct Debit, or you can even pay the inspector on the day if you are planning to be present.
Are your inspectors properly qualified, and how do I know?
Ken, our chief inspector, has extensive experience in the building industry – in fact, he’s been in the trade for more than 30 years. He has held building licence number
DBU-5831.
We are authorised to carry out Pest Inspections, having completed and been certified in Certificate 111 in Pest Management, Units 8 & 10.
Melbourne West House Inspection has been carrying out work in accordance with Australian Standards since its inception, and you can therefore count on receiving an accurate, reliable service.
We also have the necessary Public Liability and Indemnity Insurance for complete peace of mind.