When purchasing a property, it is essential to understand the differences between a pre-purchase structural inspection and a standard building and pest inspection. While both types of reports provide valuable insights, understanding which one you need can fast-track the desired outcome.

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Building and Pest Inspections

Building and pest inspections are typically carried out by professionals with a background in building or construction. These reports focus on the presence and likelihood of pests, such as termites, and identify general building hazards and damages. However, they usually do not define the causes of structural damage or provide appropriate rectifications. These reports may not be able to flag existing structural damage or identify the beginnings of future structural damage, which could cost thousands to repair.

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Pre-Purchase Structural Inspections

Structural inspections, on the other hand, specifically assess the structural integrity of a property. Unlike building and pest inspections, they do not cover issues such as broken light fixtures, leaking taps, or pest infestations. These inspections are conducted by qualified engineers who specialize in structural, civil, and geotechnical design principles. The structural engineer conducting the inspection is likely to have extensive experience in designing structures across Australia, using engineering design principles and adhering to Australian standards. These inspections often incorporate more advanced non-destructive testing equipment, which allows engineers to flag current and future structural issues that may not be apparent to the trained eye. Every structural inspection uniquely considers civil drainage conditions, geotechnical parameters, and structural composition.

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Why Choose a Structural Inspection?

If you are concerned about any current or future structural defects, a structural pre-purchase inspection provides a detailed assessment of existing or potential damages, their causes, and recommended rectifications. Before investing your life savings into a family home or investment property, safeguard your financial future by ensuring that a qualified engineer assesses the structural integrity of the premises.

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