Q & A Series: Pest & Building Inspections - Matt Jeffries from Port Hunter Pest & Building Inspections

In the first of our 'Q & A' series, we sat down for a Q&A with an experienced Pest and Building Inspector Matt Jeffries from Port Hunter Pest & Building Inspections to talk about what inspections cover, termites, moisture issues, commercial properties and what can be uncovered during an inspection.

How long have you been a pest & building inspector for?

I have been a Pest and Building Inspector for 6 years now. I have been a builder for 30-odd years.

Obtaining a pest & building inspection report is a vital step before committing to a contract to purchase a property. What does a report cover?

My reports basically cover a comprehensive visual inspection of each property from top (roof) to bottom (slab/subfloor) and all areas in between. They include:

• Details of major defects including structural issues

• Details of minor defects including cosmetic issues and issues needing periodic maintenance

• Details on evidence of Termites and other timber pests whether active or non - active.

• Details of any moisture/water ingress issues

• Photographs of all defects identified within the property

Do you find there are differing standards or qualities of inspections or reports out there?

There are differing standards and qualities of inspections and reports. As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” Some inspectors charge less as they have limited or no practical construction experience. They also do not use all the equipment available for inspections such as Thermal Imaging and Termatrac. There reports are very brief with only several photos. Other more reputable Inspectors have construction experience/knowledge, and their reports are very comprehensive with photos to back up their findings. They also are trained in and use Thermal Imaging/Termatrac and Moisture meters.

Is obtaining a pest & building inspection report for a commercial property just as relevant / important as a residential property?

Obtaining a Pest and Building Inspection is still important for commercial buildings as it ensures that the property is thoroughly inspected to expose any structural defects and maintenance items which could prove costly if not allowed for within the purchase price.

Can you give us some examples of any horror stories (whether pest or building-related) you’ve seen on the job? 

I inspected a property about 12 months ago for a client who had inherited a property. They were looking at selling the house but as was old didn’t want any hidden issues to arise when selling it. I completed a Pre-Sale Pest and Building Inspection and found live termites at the property with considerable termite damage in the roof. There was termite mudding across the front path near the front door which nobody had any idea about and many people including a Real Estate agent had walked over numerous times when inspecting the property. The client ended up getting the termites treated and declared the damage up front. The property was sold as it was for a heavily discounted price.

Moisture, water ingress, and drainage issues seem to crop up frequently. What are the tell-tale signs you look for and what bigger problems can they lead to? Is it always bad news?

Common signs include:

• Water damage/stains and discolouration to walls, ceiling, and floors

• Peeling paint and bubbling/blistering wallpaper/paint

• Musty odours and visible mould growth on walls/ceilings

• Efflorescence (white powdery substance) appearing on masonry surfaces such as bricks/concrete.

• Water pooling around the property

• Sagging ceilings

The best resolution is to find the cause and treat it to prevent any further issues as soon as possible.

Ie: Peeling paint to ceiling caused by broken roof tiles - Replace roof tile.

Mould to bathroom ceiling with no ventilation/window etc – install an exhaust fan.

Water pooling around property – install drainage/ensure gutters/downpipes are connected to stormwater.

Failing to treat the problem will only cause further damage and make the property more conducive to termites.

Termites! Should purchasers be scared off completely, or can there be an acceptable or sensible way forward?

1 in 5 homes in Australia suffer termite damage each year.

Main thing with every property is firstly ensure that the property has a termite treatment plan in place ie: Termite inspections/termite barrier/reticulation system/baiting stations. Make sure the termite treatments etc are maintained regularly (6-12 monthly).  If termites and/or termite damage is found at a property it is essential to have it treated as early as possible. Reduce the termite conducive conditions at your property. ie: Remove gardens from being up against weep holes, use treated timber for landscaping.

We note that for some properties, a pest & building inspection report has already been prepared (ordered by the vendor) and is issued to interested purchasers before exchange, along with any sales marketing material. In addition, some inspectors will re-issue the report in the purchaser’s name, for an additional fee. Do you have any views on this?

I have no issue with this as long as it done within the 30 day timeframe which most reports are valid for. Although I would also recommend a Pre-Settlement Inspection be completed by the buyer prior to settlement.

Do you enjoy what you do and what is one of your favourite parts of your job?

I find my job enjoyable as every job is at a different location/property. I meet a lot of different people and get to inspect properties with varying types of construction which I find quite interesting also.

Any final words or tips?

Do your homework when choosing a Pest and Building Inspector. Check their credentials. Not all building inspectors have practical construction experience. Ask people for recommendations and these days, check Google reviews from previous clients.