7 Crucial Property Areas to Inspect: What to Inspect and Why It's Essential

Areas that Building Inspectors cover as part of a Building Inspection can be summarised into seven different areas. 

Let’s explore each area and understand the references to the relevant Australian Standard, why each area is an important part of the Inspection process and the common issues to be aware of, for each of the Areas Inspected.

Building Inspectors using Building Inspection Software or a Building Inspection App should be clearly taken through each of these areas to ensure that their inspection is compliant and provides their clients with a professional Building Inspection Report.

1. The Site

Description: The site and its immediate surroundings, including the site condition, drainage, retaining walls, and external paths.

Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Site Inspection.

Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The site inspection is important to assess the condition of the property's immediate surroundings, including factors such as drainage, retaining walls, and external paths. This helps identify any issues that could affect the property's stability, functionality, or potential hazards.

‍Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Poor drainage leading to water pooling or potential flooding. Erosion or soil movement that may affect the stability of the property or surrounding areas. Retaining walls that show signs of structural damage, such as leaning or cracking. External paths that are uneven, cracked, or pose a trip hazard.

2. The Exterior

Description: The exterior of the building, including the roof, roof coverings, roof drainage, walls, windows, doors, balconies, decks, and external fixtures.

Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Exterior Inspection.

Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The exterior inspection is crucial to evaluate the overall condition of the building's exterior components, including the roof, walls, windows, doors, balconies, decks, and external fixtures. It helps identify any visible defects, deterioration, or safety hazards that may require maintenance, repairs, or further investigation.

Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Roof leaks or damage, such as missing or damaged roof coverings, cracked tiles, or deteriorated flashing. Cracks or deterioration in the walls, indicating potential structural issues or water penetration. Faulty windows or doors, including damaged frames, broken glass, or ineffective seals. Balconies, decks, or external fixtures that show signs of deterioration, instability, or safety hazards.

3. Roof Void 

‍Description: The accessible areas of the roof space, including the roof structure, insulation, ventilation, and any visible signs of leaks or damage.

‍Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.0-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 5.1.3 - Roof Void Inspection.

‍Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The inspection of the roof void allows for the assessment of the accessible areas within the roof space, including the roof structure, insulation, ventilation, and any visible signs of leaks or damage. This helps identify any potential structural concerns, insulation deficiencies, or signs of moisture intrusion

‍Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Inadequate or insufficient insulation that may impact energy efficiency or thermal comfort. Signs of pest infestation, such as termite activity or rodent droppings. Leaks or water stains indicating potential roof leaks or plumbing issues. Structural defects, such as sagging roof framing or compromised trusses. 

4. Subfloor  

Description: The accessible areas of the subfloor, including the subfloor structure, ventilation, drainage, and any signs of dampness, termite activity, or other issues.

‍Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Subfloor Inspection.

Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The subfloor inspection focuses on assessing the accessible areas beneath the building, including the subfloor structure, ventilation, drainage, and signs of dampness, termite activity, or other issues. This helps identify any potential structural issues, water ingress problems, or pest-related concerns that may affect the property's integrity.

Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Dampness, moisture stains, or mold growth that may indicate water ingress or inadequate ventilation. Pest activity or damage, including termite infestation or evidence of rodent activity. Structural issues, such as compromised floor joists or inadequate support. Plumbing leaks or damaged drainage systems that require repair.

5.Building Interior  

Description: The interior of the building, including the floors, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, stairs, and any visible signs of water damage, cracking, or other defects.

Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Interior Inspection.

Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The interior inspection involves evaluating the condition of the building's interior elements, including floors, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, stairs, and any visible signs of defects or water damage. It helps identify any visible defects, deterioration, or maintenance requirements within the living spaces of the property.

Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Cracked walls or ceilings indicating potential structural movement or settling. Water stains, dampness, or mold growth, suggesting plumbing leaks or moisture penetration. Damaged or malfunctioning doors, windows, or hardware. Uneven or damaged flooring, such as loose tiles, worn-out carpet, or creaky floorboards

6. Roof Exterior  

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Description: The external surfaces of the roof, including roof coverings, flashings, roof penetrations, gutters, downpipes, and any visible signs of defects or maintenance requirements.

Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Roof Exterior Inspection.

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Why is it important from an Inspection perspective?

The inspection of the roof exterior focuses on assessing the external surfaces of the roof, including roof coverings, flashings, roof penetrations, gutters, and downpipes. This helps identify any visible defects, deterioration, or maintenance requirements related to the roof components that may affect its performance or water-tightness.

Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Damaged or deteriorated roof coverings, such as cracked tiles, loose shingles, or rusted metal sheets. Damaged or deteriorated roof coverings, such as cracked tiles, loose shingles, or rusted metal sheets. Improperly installed or deteriorated flashings, leading to water penetration or leaks.

Clogged or damaged gutters and downpipes that impede proper water drainage. Poorly sealed or deteriorated roof penetrations, such as vents or chimneys.

7. Other Areas

Description: Any additional areas or components that may be specified by the client or relevant to the inspection scope, such as outbuildings, fences, or swimming pools (if within scope).

Australian Standard Reference: Australian Standard AS 4349.1-2007: Inspection of Buildings - General Requirements: Section 3.2 - Other Areas or Components.

Why is it important from an Inspection perspective? 

The inspection of additional areas or components, if specified by the client or deemed relevant, ensures a comprehensive assessment of the property. This may include outbuildings, fences, swimming pools, or any other features that are within the agreed scope of the inspection.

Common issues to look for in Inspections: 

Issues specific to outbuildings, such as structural damage, faulty electrical wiring, or inadequate insulation. Damaged or unstable fences, gates, or retaining walls. Safety concerns related to swimming pools, such as faulty fencing or inadequate barriers. Deficiencies or maintenance requirements in features specified within the agreed inspection scope, such as additional structures or specific components.