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Dampness in homes and apartments is not only unsightly detracting from the beauty of the home, but it also presents an unhealthy environment in which to live. Stains on the interior walls, mouldy and smelly rooms, lifting wallpaper and damaged timbers are usually the tell tale sign of a damp problem.
For the homeowner, often the cause of the problem is hard to detect. The Building Centre Network's Inspectors/Consultants can be engaged to visit the site, inspect the areas of damp, detect the cause and provide a written report on how best to rectify the problem.
Some of the causes of dampness are:
- Condensation within the home
- Plumbing – leaking pipes buried in the wall, overflowing guttering, blocked gutters
- Leaking Bathrooms and Shower Recesses
- Rising Damp which occurs in the base of brick or stone walls
- Poor sub-floor ventilation
- The breakdown of the waterproofing membrane on flat roofs and balconies
Advice concerning any Dampness issues can be obtained through our network of Building Inspectors.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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An inspection and testing of the immediate area where dampness has presented itself. Dampness can be caused by a number of reasons and only an expert with the appropriate knowledge and equipment can assist in determining the nature of the dampness, the likely cause and the best remedial approach. A report confirms the findings.
Some Applications: Dampness usually appears towards the bottom of a wall, however dampness can appear higher up and on the ceilings. Whilst there are some coating products on the market, generally much like applying make up, they merely cover the surface and usually do not address the actual cause. The dampness will return usually sooner than later.
The Benefits: Dampness is unsightly, can cause odours, mould and can damage materials or furniture. By having the cause of the problem are properly identified as well as available options to have it correctly remedied, you will be in the best position to rid yourself of this unsightly, unpleasant and potentially damaging problem.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A Defect is an irregularity or weakness in a material that lowers its usefulness or structural suitability due to a variety of causes. A structural defect means any load bearing component that is essential to the stability of a dwelling that is attributable to defective design or materials or faulty workmanship.
A Defect is essentially any breach of a statutory warranty that is implied in every contract to do residential building work as set out in relevant State Home Building Legislation. The NSW Home Building Act 2007 Ss 18 defines contractor's warranties in relation to the construction of a dwelling, making alterations or additions to a dwelling or the repairing, renovation, decoration or protective treatment of a dwelling in the following terms:
- A warranty that the work will be performed in a proper and workmanlike manner and in accordance with the plans and specifications set out in the contract.
- That the materials used will be suitable for the specified purpose.
- The work will be done in accordance with relevant legislation, BCA, Australian Standards and accepted tolerances.
- The work will be carried out by a contractor licensed to do such type of work.
A building defects report is required to obtain home warranty insurance if, as a home owner you intend to sell within 6 years of undertaking owner-builder work. Only a qualified building consultant can prepare an acceptable Defects Report for insurance purposes.
This type of report identifies building defects that constitute breaches of warranties as defined under State Legislation (see Home Building Act of NSW.) Some of the areas referred to include:
- Incomplete work
- Use of second–hand materials and fixtures
- Obvious breaches of the building code or standards
- Brickwork and mortar composition– are they properly constructed and straight?
- Concrete slabs– comment on cracks, expansion joints
- Water proofing membranes
- Roof space, structure, flashings, and drainage
- Windows and doors properly fitted
- Floor and wall tiling
- Evidence of damp
Reporting on a defect involves a five step process. An inspection will: identify the defect; explain the likely cause; give reason why it is a defect such as the work does not comply with the BCA; recommend how to rectify the problem and estimate the cost involved.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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Both residential and commercial investment property owners should consider engaging one of our advisors to determine a Depreciation schedule to maximise your annual tax claim over the depreciable effective life of the property. These reports should be prepared by a Quantity Surveyor, Accountant or Solicitor. A depreciation schedule is dependant on the construction date and may become financially attractive if an investment property has undergone significant renovation, additions or alterations. The owner of an income producing investment property may be able to claim depreciation from the date of acquisition.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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- NSW
An inspection and report that identifies and calculates the values that will form part of a depreciation schedule or special building write-offs that will be acceptable by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Some Applications: For developers and property investors who are wishing to include depreciation or special building write-offs of their recently built property, in their annual Tax Return.
The Benefits: A professional and complying report of the values which may be claimed for tax purposes for this specific need.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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An independent report and inspection, which will be acceptable by the NSW Office of Fair Trading for any building or tenancy issues or problems.
Some Applications:
•Bond Money: To assist in having returned the fair and correct amount of your tenancy Bond Money, by having an independent and well-documented inspection prior to signing the lease or taking occupancy, will enable you to clearly establish problems that existed prior to your occupancy. If there are arguments as to damage that appears at the time if your leaving, you have the benefit of this independent report to clearly establish the damage was there before you took occupancy. If a follow-up inspection at the time of your leaving is required, it may be possible to engage the same Inspector, who becomes your independent witness to the damage that was present at the time of your taking up residency or office space or factory space.
•Building Disputes: If you are having a dispute with your builder or a tradesman, an independent building inspection and report can assist you in taking the matter up with the builder or tradesman, and if that fails, you then have the independent report to use as a CTTT tribunal hearing, with the option of engaging the consultant as an expert witness at the tribunal.
The Benefits: Professional and accepted independent reports to best present your case or needs to solve the problem in the shortest possible time, and ideally avoiding tribunal hearings or litigation.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A visit to site by an architect, to discuss with you your own needs and ideas, to assess your existing home, the site, its orientation, neighbouring properties, environmental factors and the requirements of local Council. The architect will then prepare a Design Report including concept drawings (please note these are not planned suitable for submission to a council nor are they planned is sufficiently detailed to be given to a builder), rather they are concept drawings to present to you ideas and possibilities. The report also includes an opinion on the probable cost of the project. It will also include comments on any local planning issues and any issues relating to neighbours or trees once the report is completed, the architect will organise a second consultation to present the report and to discuss the proposed design concept. The design concept you receive will become your property solely for the site that you engaged him to assess.
Some Applications: When seeking ideas and solutions for either a small renovation (internal alterations only), large renovation (ground floor extension or first-floor extension) or dual occupancy desires.
The Benefits: A cost-effective way of receiving outside professional and competent design solutions for your proposed renovation and your needs. Some clients organised two or three such reports, which gives them the benefit of two or three different ideas from which to choose or combine. Given the cost and permanency of building an extension or renovation this is a clever, prudent and straightforward way to receive creative and practical solutions from which to choose. The design of the Sydney Opera House arose from a competition conducted by the NSW Government. Similarly you can obtain one, two or three design concepts to your l renovation or extension ideals based on your needs, and then decide knowing you have explored a number of options.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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- ACT
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- SA
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- VIC
- WA
- NT
A visit to site by an architect, to discuss with you your own needs and ideas, to assess the site, its orientation, neighbouring properties, environmental factors and the requirements of local Council. The architect will then prepare a Design Report including concept drawings (please note these are not planned suitable for submission to a council nor are they planned and sufficiently detailed to be given to a builder), rather they are concept drawings to present to you ideas and possibilities. The report also includes an opinion on the probable cost of the project. It will also include comments on any local planning issues and any issues relating to neighbours or trees once the report is completed, the architect will organise a second consultation to present the report and to discuss the proposed design concept. The design concept you receive will become your property solely for the site that you engaged him to assess.
Some Applications: When considering to buy land or an existing home that you plan to knock down. When considering to rebuild a home on the land the land that you already own.
The Benefits: A cost-effective way of receiving outside professional and competent design solutions for your proposed land and your needs. Some clients organised two or three such reports, which gives them the benefit of two or three different ideas from which to choose or combine. Given the cost and permanency of building a new home this is a clever, prudent and straightforward way to receive creative and practical solutions from which to choose. The design of the Sydney Opera House arose from a competition conducted by the NSW Government. Similarly you can obtain one, two or three design concepts to your land and your needs, and then decide knowing you have explored a number of options.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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The DA response service offers advice on how to interpret a neighbour's development application and its possible impact on your dwelling. To assist you to understand the potential issues surrounding a neighbouring development, our qualified and experienced Building Consultant will assess the DA application and provide you with advice and suggestions on the issues you may have concerns about.
The advantage of receiving such advice is its comprehensive and professional nature. Not only will our service assist you to understand the full range of potential issues associated with the proposed development, but it will also assist you to voice your concerns in a professional and considered manner to your Local Council, the determining authority for the development.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A Dilapidation Report works like an independent 'before' and 'after' snapshot, providing the best documentary evidence of the current physical condition of a building including the surrounds such as footpaths and curbing that may be on council property in front of your home. This inspection is done prior to works commencing on an adjoining property.
The major focus of these reports is to record any existing cracks or structural defects. This report can then be used at a later date if a dispute develops about the detrimental effects caused to your home, unit or office by work on a nearby property or site. Proposed adjoining property construction works can include demolition, excavation, underground tunnelling or road works.
The qualified and experienced Building Consultant or Structural Engineer we recommend to you will conduct an initial inspection prior to works commencing so that any existing defects are documented by means of photographs and a written report. We recommend that they also be engaged once works are completed to carry out a 'post construction' inspection.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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(Selected States)}When building disputes occur, they can be very stressful, time consuming and very expensive to resolve within the Court. Most disputes arise because people do not understand the responsibilities a building contract places on the part of the home owner and on the part of the builder. Often misunderstandings involving; building costs, quality of work, variations or changes to the work, time periods to completion, and the work that will actually be performed, are all common disputes. Read more. -
- NSW
- VIC
An inspection and testing of the immediate area where dampness has presented itself. The appearance of dampness or mould on the wall in a room are usually the first indicators that the vital damp proof course is failing to work. Dampness can be caused by a number of reasons, one of which is problems with the damp proof course. In the first instance it is important to have established whether the dampness is rising or lateral dampness, before narrowing down the cause as being DPC failure. Only an expert with the appropriate knowledge and equipment can assist in determining the nature of the dampness, the likely cause and the best remedial approach. A report confirms the findings.
Some Applications: Dampness usually appears towards the bottom of a wall, however dampness can appear higher up and on the ceilings. Whilst there are some coating products on the market, generally much like applying make up, they merely cover the surface and usually do not address the actual cause. The dampness will return usually sooner than later.
The Benefits: Dampness is unsightly, mould, can cause odours and can damage materials or furniture. By having the cause of the problem are properly identified as well as available options to have it correctly remedied, you will be in the best position to rid yourself of this unsightly and unpleasant problem. Additionally there are a few conflicting remedies offered, but as the saying goes 'there are horses for courses' and this is also true for rectifying Damp Course problems, that only an experienced independent specialist Consultant can clarify or advise you based on his findings.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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- NSW
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An investigative inspection, using appropriate equipment, of the drainage systems or known problems. Flooding inside the home or building occurs when the main sewerage drainage, or internal drainage, becomes blocked. Flooding also occurs outside the home or building, which can even lead to water entering the home or building from the outside. Water can also entering the building during heavy downpours. A report, visual images when taken and recommended solutions are provided.
Some Applications:
Drainage issues or problems can be caused by
•Poorly designed and undersized drainage systems •Poor workmanship or materials filling the drainage systems during construction •Insufficient gradient of drainage, gutters or pipe work •Blockages to the drainage systems caused by lack of regular preventive maintenance •Blockage to the drainage systems caused by roots penetrating the sewer lines •Blockage of the drainage pipes caused by the wrong products being put down toilets or wastes including sanitary napkins and tampons •Blockages caused by 'half flush' toilets, which with less water flow means that waste can build up and end up blocking waste pipes leading to the sewer •Movement of the building and ground which can cause the drainage pipes to crack will be broken., including excavation work be carried on in neighbouring properties As most of these problems are hidden from visual inspection or assessment, so only specialists with diagnostic equipment and cameras can determine the likely causes of the blockages, and then recommend the best way to fix the problem.
The Benefits: Water entering the building can cause extensive damage to one's goods including carpets, furniture, timber flooring and furniture made of MDF or particle board, so it is important to avoid such extensive damage and dislocation. When water entry problems arise, they do not go away but rather wait for another occasion to present themselves and do damage.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A thorough inspection of the fuse box, accessible wiring and testing of power points and other aspects of the present wiring. Such inspections assist in protecting you and your family to minimise the chance of electrocution as well as minimising the potential of a fire caused by failure in electrical wiring. The inspections will check all power and electrical wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, amperage load tests, circuit and load distribution. These days Earth leakage systems should be installed to minimise the chances of electrocution. The home or building is thoroughly examined and tested by such a licensed expert. Some Applications:
•When buying a new home or property •When you are concerned about your safety especially a potential electrical fire •Compliance with the Building Code of Australia especially or strata buildings, to satisfy the requirements of local council and insurance policies •To ensure that your insurance policy does not become invalid due to poor preventive maintenance which is your responsibility. This applies in both homes and strata blocks •In older homes the wiring does deteriorate and has the potential to become dangerous •The Australian Standards Wiring Rules have changed to ensure a high level of safety •To ensure that illegal work has not been carried out •To ensure that all power points are properly earthed, to minimise the risks of electrocution
The Benefits: Quite simply is a matter of prevention being better than cure. If you have not been involved in the building and maintaining of your home or property, it is important to have the electrical wiring checked by a licensed electrician.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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The inspection of buildings by a structural engineer , is your insurance to ensure that the structural integrity and strength of the structure of of a home, building or retaining walls are in order. This work can only be can only be properly assessed by a qualified and properly insured structural engineer, which does not include an inspection by an architect or builder. Some Applications:
•When buying a new home or property •When cracks, bulging or the signs of movement appear •The potentially damaging effects of large trees near homes or garages •The ageing of building where the brick ties maybe rusting out in the structural integrity of the building is diminishing, which could lead to the collapsing of walls •Preventive maintenance. To check on brick movement, the rusting of structural supports, the damage effect of nearby large trees. To check on sufficient and effective drainage, as well as a condition of retaining walls and fences •Compliance with the Building Code of Australia especially or strata buildings, to satisfy the requirements of local council and insurance policies •When the absence of, insufficient, incorrect expansion joints or other causes of problems •When poor foundations or difficult soil types can cause structural problems •When assessing whether the existing structure can carry and other level •When designing a new home, property, extension or renovation
The Benefits: Your safety and that of your family. By nipping any problems in the bud, by quickly acting on a problem that presents itself and having assessed then rectified, can minimise the damage and the costs of rectification. Insurance cover becomes null and void if proper preventative maintenance has not been carried out. Insurance claims for structural damage are widely known to be rejected when the property has not been properly maintained. By having regular inspections by an engineer, is your proof that you have had proper preventive maintenance assessment carried out.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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An on site investigation, including surrounding properties or areas as well is drawing on available information to provide a report outlining the likely detrimental impact, or satisfactory impact, of intended building works.
Some Applications:
•When proposing a development plan of your own •When responding to a development application of a neighbour, or nearby property •When fighting an appeal for a Development Application rejected or severely modified by local council
The Benefits: The best possible creditable and professional documented report, to support your Application or fight and undesirable Application in the right channels, organisations or in court.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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Following an on-site inspection and report, the provider of this independent and credible opinion, helps represent the case in a court or tribunal or mediation. Having prepared the opinion via the report, the professional author may be called upon and cross examined when the matter is being heard. Both the quality of the report and experience in a contentious environment such as a tribunal or court is paramount. Your best chances of succeeding, be it defending or challenging, can very much be determined by the expertise, experience and representation of your expert witness.
Some Applications: Building disputes usually associated with poor workmanship, poor practice, poor detail, , incorrect installation procedures, absence of vital building needs (e.g. flashing, expansion joints, weep holes, fixing techniques, preparation, waterproofing etc) inferior or inappropriate or incorrect materials or specs used and/or lack of compliance with Australian Standards and the Building Code of Australia, which individually or combined have resulted in the failure or poor end result of the construction process.
The Benefits: The best possible representation in every possible respect, will significantly increase your chances of success.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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You may find yourself in a situation where you require an independent expert witness to offer an opinion on a building matter. When building disputes proceed to litigation it is essential that all available evidence be examined and documented by a specialist Building Consultant who will provide a report to a standard required by a Court and appear as an expert witness. Our expert witness service covers a wide range of building disputes and problems such as: sub-standard work; building defects; dampness; termite damage; excessive deflections and cracking.
We can introduce you to specialists in the following areas:
•Home building - compliance with Australian Standards & Building Code of Australia •Structural engineering •Mechanical engineering •Hydraulic engineering •Forensic accountants •Forensic architects •Quantity surveyors •Fire safety consultants •Tiling expertise (floors and walls) •Timber expertise (structural and flooring)To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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Water entry through the facade of a building requires the on-site investigation of an experienced expert due to the difficult nature of determining the entry point of the water and the cause, as is carried out in this specialised inspection.
Some Applications: Homes, high-rise buildings, factories and commercial properties.
The Benefits: An understanding of the cause of the dampness or water entry problem and to receive a report outlining how it is to be effectively addressed and remedied.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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An inspection of physically and visually accessible building works, to assess the causes of poor workmanship, practices, compliance, adherence to the Building Code of Australia or Australia Standards, materials or fixing materials, to clearly and independently define faulty workmanship, the reasons and the rectification required to either knocked down and do again or make good. All this information is confirmed in a report.
Some Appications:
•You have noticed that some of the building works does not look right, and you are seeking an independent opinion to check your concerns, and if you are correct to have them detailed and documented, as well as the rectification required. •By having regular independent checks of the building works, such an expert will pick up faulty or problematic workmanship that you will have not noticed and draw it to your attention, for rectification. The Benefits By having a professional and independent report carried out, you are in a better position to: •Presenting it to the builder either directly or through your solicitor, and ideally have the builder respond to your concerns. Such a report also indicates to the builder that you are serious with your concerns, and that you have backed them up with an independent appraisal or professional advice. •If the builder does not agree to rectify the work, armed with this report and proof that you approached the builder previously, there are procedures in each state to have the matter taken up in a tribunal or by mediation. The author of the report may need to appear as an Expert Witness to help represent you.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A trained and experienced Feng Shui consultant will visit your home or property, listen to your ideas, look at the existing structure, and make recommendations based on Feng Shui (Chinese design and living ) principles, involving good health, good luck, balance, good fortune and prosperity.
Some Appications: Redecorating, renovating or extending your home, office or commercial property.
The Benefits: These amazing ancient Chinese practices can make a significant difference to the enjoyment of the environment in which you live or work, and as a result increases in peace, harmony and success at all levels.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A thorough inspection of a prospective property purchase through the eyes and mind of an expert in Feng Shui.
Some Appications: There are many aspects of Feng Shui (Chinese design and living ) principles that can reliably guide you as to the appropriateness of your intended purchase. If you believe in Feng Shui, or highly value and appreciate this perspective, it is very wise to have a property you are considering purchase assessed from a Feng Shui point of view to decide whether it is appropriate to purchase, and/or whether there is the potential to make physical changes to address any negative Feng Shui aspects.
The Benefits: The benefits and peace of mind of knowing that you have independently had this prospective property assessed based on the long-standing and highly recognised principles of Feng Shui.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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The assistance of a Feng Shui (Chinese design and living principles) consultant to look at your ideas or those of your designer ( an architect, interior architect, landscape architect , building or interior designer) who will provide Feng Shui input to design from the outset.
Some Appications:
•A new home or building •A new commercial building •A planned extension or renovation •Re-organisation of the use of your space or re-decoration •Placement of furniture, art or sculptures, as well as choice of colours and materials or finishes The Benefits: Obtaining Feng Shui input at the crucial design stage, thus avoiding the need to make changes during construction or on completion. To have the benefits of Feng Shui considerations incorporated in the design.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A thorough top to bottom inspection , assessment and report on potential fire hazards, complying egress circumstances, fire detection, fire alarm, fire fighting equipment, compliance with the current Building Code of Australia and Australian Standards requirements.
Some Appications: Primarily strata, commercial or industrial buildings, necessary to comply with local council ordinances and often to maintain compliance to ensure that your insurance policy will not be void due to non-compliance. In strata buildings, For a peace of mind of the owner occupiers, a fire and safety check is well worthwhile in homes and residences as well.
The Benefits:
•The safety and well-being of your staff or tenants •Compliance with your local council's requirements •Compliance with the requirements of your insurance policy protection •As a result of obtaining details of noncomplying aspect of your building, you can plan and budget for the necessary changes and upgrades.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
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A thorough investigation and report of the causes of a destructive incident.
Some Applications: Fire or collapse or failure of the building's structure. Storm damage.
The Benefits: to present to the appropriate body, and independent and credible report on the causes of a failure or incident, and to quickly receive insurance payment if appropriate, to enable the speedy rectification and reconstruction is necessary of the property, to enable it to be reoccupied or used, as soon as is practically possible.To get an obligation free quote on Advice and Inspections, call us on 1300 884 876 or complete the Inspection Quote Request online.
