Building inspections are performed to ensure construction projects adhere to specific standards and regulations, helping avoid unforeseen problems that might otherwise crop up later and save both money and time.
Certified Adelaide building inspections inspectors typically possess both a high school diploma and some on-the-job experience, in addition to receiving additional training through professional associations and certification processes.
Inspecting the Exterior
Inspection of the exterior of a building involves many elements. For instance, home inspectors usually look out for signs of rotted or damaged siding and trim as well as clearance between wood siding materials and the ground (typically 6″ minimum clearance).
Building inspectors may review the condition of walkways, curbs, sidewalks, concrete slabs and gutters to ensure their safety. Inspecting fire-stopping devices as well as fire doors as well as windows and their frames for damage will also be reviewed by building inspectors as will an examination of roof for signs of leaks, missing or broken shingles is performed as part of this service.
Inspecting the Interior
Inspection of an interior building includes looking for signs of moisture or other issues. It also involves inspecting plumbing, fire alarm, and fire sprinkler systems as well as checking stairways for safety issues.
Troubleshooting articles discuss all aspects of inspecting and repairing building interiors, from cracks, damage, odours, stains and sounds to sounds emanating from within walls or floor finishes as well as bulges that require repair.
Inspecting the Structure
Structural issues in buildings can create major headaches for their occupants and may lead to costly repairs or even the total collapse of a structure.
A certified Adelaide building inspections can detect potential structural issues before they become serious problems. Inspectors can examine cracks in the foundation that indicate shifts or settlement of structures, or signs of rot such as rust seeping through concrete that indicate structural plane degradation.
An inspection can also provide verification that a building meets all necessary standards for its intended use, which could involve reviewing plans and permits, inspecting materials used during construction methods, as well as looking out for any code violations.
Inspecting the Electrical System
At the final inspection, your building inspector will use a handheld device or multimeter to inspect every outlet or receptacle to ensure they’re attached to a ground wire and producing the correct voltage. They’ll also check light switches and fixtures to confirm that they work, look for “push-in connections” at outlets which make less contact with wires in order to reduce potential damage, as well as aluminium or knob-and-tube wiring which should be updated in order to reduce fire hazards.
Home or addition owners should also ensure that they have enough circuits to meet their electrical demand, with GFCI or AFCI protection provided wherever required by code (such as in kitchens or near water sources).
Inspecting the Plumbing System
Inspection of the plumbing system is an integral component of any building inspection, as it allows inspectors to detect small issues before they become major concerns, such as clogged drains and water leaks that damage property or cause mould and mildew growth.
Professional plumbers will perform a plumbing inspection to examine water pipes for leaks and ensure that they are securely connected. In addition, they will test water pressure to make sure it complies with local codes.
Certified Adelaide building inspections inspectors like Detail Building Inspection use digital forms to speed up their inspection processes and complete them more quickly with less error. This allows them to conduct inspections more efficiently while saving time and effort in doing so.
Inspecting the HVAC System
Adelaide’s hot and humid climate necessitates a functional HVAC system to ensure comfort for its inhabitants. A good system can save businesses and organisations on energy costs; an inspector may recommend repairs or replacements after conducting an inspection of such systems.
An HVAC inspection ensures both buyers and sellers have all the information they need about a property’s HVAC systems, which could result in unexpectedly costly repair bills or dissatisfied buyers if decisions made without accurate knowledge are taken. Furthermore, improper installations might go undetected without such inspection – though an experienced inspector is trained to identify such problems quickly.
Inspecting the Roof
At this step of an inspection, a roofing inspector will visually examine the roof by walking its perimeter and peering up from a ladder or drone to view its top surface.
An advanced roof will contain numerous penetrations such as vent pipes, drains and skylights; an inspector must ensure all flashing and caulking around these are intact and check insulation to make sure it is functioning optimally without air leaks.
Inspectors also check drains to make sure they’re unblocked, helping prevent rainwater from collecting on roofs and damaging structures.