Ripple Building Inspections

Pre-Engagement Agreement

(NOTE: Combined Building & Pest Inspections Terms Follow)

Ripple Building Inspections is committed to delivering a highly professional service that exceeds the minimum standards outlined in the relevant Australian Standards for property and building inspections.
This Pre-Engagement Agreement has been prepared to clearly define the scope of the inspection, the applicable limitations, and the minimum requirements that govern the inspection process.

1. Definitions

The relevant definitions in this document are detailed at the end of the Agreement.

The Client’s Acknowledgments

2. The Client acknowledges that:
3. The Inspector reserves the right to cancel the inspection at any time.
4. The Inspector will inspect the Building Elements as outlined in Appendix C of AS4349.1- 2007, except for Strata title properties, where the inspection will be according to Appendix B of AS4349.1- 2007. (AS Standards). A copy of this standard can be found on the “About Us” page on this site. The Client warrants that they have been given a reasonable opportunity to peruse all relevant Australian Standards.
5. The Inspection Report is also limited by the Restrictions on an Inspection, as well as any rights held by an Inspector to ensure their own safety and/or any other limitations set out in the terms of this Agreement.
6. It is implicit that the Inspection Report is a subjective visual-only inspection.
7. The Client will not rely on the report for valuation purposes or solely in their final decision to purchase the Property.
8. The Inspection Report is for the Client’s exclusive use and is not to be given to a third party (any individual who does not have a direct connection with the legal transaction) without the Inspector’s written consent.
9. The Scope of Inspection set out in this Agreement is only indicative as the Inspector is restricted by their ability to access any Area, which is subject to all safety considerations. The Client further acknowledges that the Inspector cannot breach the same to carry out an inspection.
10. Some Restrictions on an Inspection are foreseeable while others are only known at the time of inspection.
11. That the Inspector is the only person who can determine, at the time of the inspection, what they are restricted by during an inspection.
12. The Inspector will carry out a visual and non-invasive inspection limited by access and restrictions.
13. The Inspector is not liable for any Area not inspected due to restrictions on an inspection.
14. That any claim for loss is limited to the cost of the inspection.
15. That the Client has read all the terms and has not relied on any representations made by the Inspector or anyone else before entering this Agreement.
16. That just because a defect is not visible at the time of the inspection does not guarantee that there is no defect affecting the property.
17. That the Client acknowledges acceptance of this Agreement and its terms through the performance of this Agreement by way of payment of the agreed Inspector’s fee.
18. That you acknowledge that a visual-only inspection may be of limited use to you as defects may exist in areas not possible to access and inspect without invasive methods.
19. The Inspector does not report on latent defects in the property or in the title.
20. That the Client acknowledges acceptance through the performance of this Agreement by way of payment of the agreed Inspector’s fee, and confirming that the agreement and terms and conditions have been read and understood by the Client and/or as such ticking the appropriate check box when ordering online.
21. The Client will not hold the Inspector liable for any losses suffered on relying on the Inspection Report considering the acknowledgments above and all the terms of this Agreement.

Handover / PCI  Inspections

Purpose

The purpose of the inspection is to identify any building defects, substandard workmanship, incomplete items and safety hazards associated with the property at the time of the inspection.

The Scope of the Inspection

Items identified by the inspector, in our opinion, do not either; meet an acceptable industry standard such as set out by the Victorian Building Authority document “Guide to Standards and Tolerances 2015” or reach an appropriate quality of finish or have not been constructed or completed in a proper work person like manner, relevant to the appropriate Building Code or Regulation set down by the Building Commission. The Guide to Standards and Tolerances 2015 (the Guide) has been developed for builders and building owners to use as a convenient reference to the minimum technical standards and quality of building work. The Guide provides references to relevant areas of legislation and gives guidance on areas of building standards that are not covered by legislation. Building work that does not meet the standards outlined in the Guide could be considered defective. This report complies with Australian Building Standards AS 4349.0-2007 Inspection of buildings.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Our engagement is limited to that of a building Consultant NOT that of a Building Surveyor. This report is a quality assurance assessment and not a certificate of compliance or a check against builder and client contractual correctness. Contractual check measurements of any type do not form part of this report. This is NOT a structural report. General requirements recognise that the report is not a warranty or insurance policy against problems developing with the building in the future.

Builders Warranty Inspections

PURPOSE OF INSPECTION

The purpose of this inspection is to provide advice to the Client regarding the condition of the Building & Site at the time of inspection. As requested and agreed with the Client, the inspection carried out by the Building Consultant is a Builders Warranty Inspection.

“Client” means the person or persons, for whom the Report was carried out or their Principal (i.e., the person or persons for whom the report is being obtained).

“Building Consultant” means a person, business or company who is qualified and experienced to undertake an inspection in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4349.0-2007 ‘Inspection of Buildings. Part 0: General Requirements – Residential Buildings’. The consultant must also meet any Government licensing requirement, where applicable.

This Standard Property Report was produced for the exclusive use of the Client. The consultant, their company or firm is not liable for any reliance placed on this report by any third party.

SCOPE OF INSPECTION

This Report only covers or deals with any evidence of: Structural Damage; Conditions Conducive to Structural Damage; any Major Defect in the condition of Secondary Elements and Finishing Elements; collective (but not individual)

Minor Defects; and any Serious Safety Hazard discernible at the time of inspection. The inspection is limited to the Readily Accessible Areas of the Building & Site (see Note below) and is based on a visual examination of surface work (excluding furniture and stored items), and the carrying out of Tests.

Note. With strata and company title properties, the inspection was limited to the interior and the immediate exterior of the particular residence inspected. Common property was not inspected.

“Structural Damage” means a significant impairment to the integrity of the whole or   part of the Structure falling into one or more of the following categories:

1. Structural Cracking and Movement – major (full depth) cracking forming in Primary Elements resulting from differential movement between or within the elements of construction, such as foundations, footings, floors, walls and roofs.
2. Deformation – an abnormal change of shape of Primary Elements resulting from the application of load(s).
3. Dampness – the presence of moisture within the building, which is causing consequential damage to Primary Elements.
4. Structural Timber Pest Damage – structural failure, i.e., an obvious weak spot, deformation or even collapse of timber Primary Elements resulting from attack by one or more of the following wood destroying agents: chemical delignification; fungal decay; wood borers; and termites.

“Structure” means the loadbearing part of the building, comprising the Primary Elements.

“Primary Elements” means those parts of the building providing the basic loadbearing capacity to the Structure, such as foundations, footings, floor framing, loadbearing walls, beams or columns.

 The term ‘Primary Elements’ also includes other structural building elements      including ;those that provide a level of personal protection such as handrails; floor-to-floor access such as stairways; and the structural flooring of the building such as floorboards.

“Conditions Conducive to Structural Damage” means noticeable building deficiencies or environmental factors that may contribute to the occurrence of Structural Damage.

“Major Defect” means defect of significant magnitude where rectification has to be carried out in order to avoid unsafe conditions, loss of utility or further deterioration of the property.

“Secondary Elements” means those parts of the building not providing loadbearing capacity to the Structure, or those nonessential elements which, in the main, perform a completion role around openings in Primary Elements and the building in general such as non-loadbearing walls, partitions, wall linings, ceilings, chimneys, flashings, windows, glazing or doors.

“Finishing Elements” means the fixtures, fittings and finishes applied or affixed to Primary Elements and Secondary Elements such as baths, water closets, vanity basins, kitchen cupboards, door furniture, window hardware, render, floor and wall tiles, trim or paint. The term ‘Finishing Elements’ does not include furniture or soft floor coverings such as carpet and Lino.

“Minor Defect” means defect other than a Major Defect.

“Serious Safety Hazard” means any item that may constitute an immediate or imminent risk to life, health or property. Occupational, health and safety or any other consequence of these hazards has not been assessed.

“Tests” means where appropriate the carrying out of tests using the following procedures and instruments:

1. Dampness Tests – additional attention to the visual examination was given to those accessible areas which the consultant’s experience has shown to be particularly susceptible to damp problems. Instrument testing using electronic moisture detecting meter of those areas and other visible accessible elements of construction showing evidence of dampness was performed.
2. Physical Tests – the following physical actions undertaken by the consultant: opening and shutting of doors, windows and draws; operation of taps; water testing of shower recesses; and the tapping of tiles and wall plaster.

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

The building was compared with a building that was constructed in accordance with the generally accepted practice at the time of construction and which has been maintained such that there has been no significant loss of strength and serviceability.

Unless noted in “Special Conditions or Instructions”, the Report assumes that the existing use of the building will continue.

This Report only records the observations and conclusions of the Consultant about the readily observable state of the property at the time of inspection. The Report therefore cannot deal with:

1. possible concealment of defects, including but not limited to, defects concealed by lack of accessibility, obstructions such as furniture, wall linings and floor coverings, or by applied finishes such as render and paint; and
2. undetectable or latent defects, including but not limited to, defects that may not be apparent at the time of inspection due to seasonal changes, recent or prevailing weather conditions, and whether or not services have been used some time prior to the inspection being carried out.

These matters outlined above in (a) & (b) are excluded from consideration in this Report.

If the Client has any doubt about the purpose, scope and acceptance criteria on which the Report was based please discuss your concerns with the Consultant on receipt of the Report.

The Client acknowledges that, unless stated otherwise, the Client as a matter of urgency should implement any recommendation or advice given in this Report.

LIMITATIONS

The Client acknowledges:

1. A visual only inspection may be of limited use to the Client, particularly where the cause/source of a defect cannot be determined by visible inspection only. In addition to a visual inspection and in order to thoroughly inspect the Readily Accessible Areas of the property the consultant may carry out necessary non invasive tests.
2. This Report does not include the inspection and assessment of items or matters outside the scope of the requested inspection and report.
   1. Other items or matters may be the subject of a Special-Purpose
   2. Inspection Report, which is adequately specified (see Exclusions below).
3. This Report does not include the inspection and assessment of items or matters that do not fall within the Consultant’s direct expertise.
4. The inspection only covered the Readily Accessible Areas of the property. The inspection did not include areas, which were inaccessible, not readily accessible or obstructed at the time of inspection. Obstructions are defined as any condition or physical limitation which inhibits or prevents inspection and may include – but are not limited to – roofing, fixed ceilings, wall linings, floor coverings, fixtures, fittings, furniture, clothes, stored articles/materials, thermal insulation, sarking, pipe/duct work, builder’s debris, vegetation, pavements, or earth.
5. Australian Standard AS4349.0-2007 Inspection of Buildings, Part 0: General Requirements recognises that a property report is not a warranty or an insurance policy against problems developing with the building in the future.
6. This Report was produced for the use of the Client. The Consultant is not liable for any reliance placed on this report by any third party.

EXCLUSIONS

The Client acknowledges that this Report does not cover or deal with:

1. any individual Minor Defect;
2. solving or providing costs for any rectification or repair work;
3. the structural design or adequacy of any element of construction;
4. detection of wood destroying insects such as termites and wood borers;
5. the operation of fireplaces and chimneys;
6. any services including building, engineering (electronic), fire and smoke detection or mechanical;
7. lighting or energy efficiency;
8. any swimming pools and associated pool equipment or spa baths and spa equipment or the like;
9. any appliances such as dishwashers, insinkerators, ovens, stoves and ducted vacuum systems;
10. a review of occupational, health or safety issues such as asbestos content, the provision of safety glass or the use of lead based paints;
11. a review of environmental or health or biological risks such as toxic mould;
12. whether the building complies with the provisions of any building Act, code, regulation(s) or by-laws;
13. whether the ground on which the building rests has been filled, is liable to subside, swell or shrink, is subject to landslip or tidal inundation, or if it is flood prone; ; and
14. in the case of strata and company title properties, the inspection of common property areas or strata/company records.

Any of the above matters may be the subject of a special-purpose inspection report, which is adequately specified and undertaken by an appropriately qualified inspector.

This Builders Warranty Inspection/Report is an inspection undertaken by a qualified inspector who will assess the visible condition of the property for: 

1. Visible major defects
2. Visible minor defects
3. Visible structural defects
4. Visible safety defects

The assessment is the inspectors educated opinion as to which defects should typically not be present or have occurred in a property during the Builders Warranty period. The reportable defects are typically a result of poor workmanship or the premature failure of construction materials, fixtures and fittings.

This Builders warranty Inspection is not an assessment of damage and defects caused through:

1. General wear and tear
2. User/tenant misuse and abuse of the property and its building elements
3. Repairs and or alterations not undertaken by the builder who took out the Builders Warranty Insurance Policy
4. Is not a certificate of compliance, rather it is a defects list

The inspector will not report on items/defects that they consider to be as a result of the these circumstances.

Owner Builder Defects Report (137B Report)

As requested by the Client, RBI has agreed to undertake the inspection, carried out by the Building Consultant, and provide this Owner Builder Defects Report in order to assist the Client with complying with their requirements under section 137B of the Building Act (Owner Builder Construction). 

“Client” means the person or persons, for whom the Report was prepared for, including the Owner.

“Building Act” means the Building Act 1993 (Vic).

“Building Consultant” means a person, business or company who is qualified and experienced to undertake an inspection in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4349.0-2007 ‘Inspection of Buildings’ including Appendix C and the Building Act.. The consultant must also meet any Government licensing requirement, where applicable.

“Owner” means the owner of the property identified above.

“Owner Builder Works” means the building works identified in drawings provided or identified to the Building Consultant and RBI by the Owner, or the Client on the Owner’s behalf, referred to in the section below titled “Description of Works to be Inspected”.

“Rapid Building Inspections” or “RBI” means Rapid Building Inspections Pty Ltd (ABN 75 614 843 131).

“Report” means this Owner Builder Defects Report, including all the terms and conditions, undertaken with respect to the Owner Builder Works, prepared to assist the Owner with complying with their requirements under s 137B of the Building Act.

This Report is not a Pre Purchase Report but has been carried out on behalf of the owner to assist the owner with fulfilling their obligations under section 137B of the Building Act. While this Report contains the matters that are required under s 137B(2)(a)(i) of the Building Act, the Owner is responsible for ensuring they fully comply with s 137B of the Building Act.

PURPOSE OF INSPECTION

The purpose of this inspection is to provide an Owner Builder Defects Report to the Client regarding the condition of any renovations, extensions or other works undertaken by the Owner as an Owner Builder to assist the Client with fulfilling their obligations under section 137B of the Building Act. This Report only covers the Owner Builder Works as identified to RBI by the Client.

As requested by the Client, RBI has agreed to undertake the inspection, carried out by the Building Consultant, and provide this Owner Builder Defects Report in order to assist the Client with complying with their requirements under section 137B of the Building Act (Owner Builder Construction). 

“Client” means the person or persons, for whom the Report was prepared for, including the Owner.

“Building Act” means the Building Act 1993 (Vic).

“Building Consultant” means a person, business or company who is qualified and experienced to undertake an inspection in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4349.0-2007 ‘Inspection of Buildings’ including Appendix C and the Building Act. The consultant must also meet any Government licensing requirement, where applicable.

“Owner” means the owner of the property identified above.

“Owner Builder Works” means the building works identified in drawings provided or identified to the Building Consultant and RBI by the Owner, or the Client on the Owner’s behalf, referred to in the section below titled “Description of Works to be Inspected”.

“Ripple Building Inspections” or “RBI” means Ripple Building Inspections (ABN 21 582 974 469).

“Report” means this Owner Builder Defects Report, including all the terms and conditions, undertaken with respect to the Owner Builder Works, prepared to assist the Owner with complying with their requirements under s 137B of the Building Act.

This Report is not a Pre Purchase Report but has been carried out on behalf of the owner to assist the owner with fulfilling their obligations under section 137B of the Building Act. While this Report contains the matters that are required under s 137B(2)(a)(i) of the Building Act, the Owner is responsible for ensuring they fully comply with s 137B of the Building Act.

This Owner Builder Defects Report was produced for the exclusive use of the Client. Neither RBI nor the Building Consultant, their company or firm are liable for any reliance placed on this report by any third party.

SCOPE OF INSPECTION

This Report only covers or deals with any evidence of, with respect to the

Owner Builder Works:

Structural Damage; Conditions Conducive to Structural Damage; any Major Defect in the condition of Secondary Elements and Finishing Elements; collective (but not individual) and the matters that must be covered in a building report that is provided under 137B of the Building Act.

Minor Defects; and any Serious Safety Hazard discernible at the time of inspection in connection with the Owner Builder Works. The inspection is limited to the Readily Accessible Areas of the Building & Site (see Note below) and is based on a visual examination of surface work (excluding furniture and stored items), and the carrying out of Tests.

“Structural Damage” means, with respect to the Owner Builder Works, a significant impairment to the integrity of the whole or part of the Structure falling into one or more of the following categories:

1. Structural Cracking and Movement – major (full depth) cracking forming in Primary Elements resulting from differential movement between or within the elements of construction that form part of the Owner Builder Works, such as foundations, footings, floors, walls and roofs in this area.
2. Deformation – an abnormal change of shape of Primary Elements that form part of the Owner Builder Works resulting from the application of load(s).
3. Dampness – the presence of moisture, which is causing consequential damage to Primary Elements.
4. Structural Timber Pest Damage – structural failure, i.e., an obvious weak spot, deformation or even collapse of timber Primary Elements resulting from attack by one or more of the following wood destroying agents: chemical delignification; fungal decay; wood borers; and termites.

“Structure” means the loadbearing part of the building that forms part of the Owner Builder Works, comprising the Primary Elements.

“Primary Elements” means those parts of the building that form part of the

Owner Builder Works providing the basic loadbearing capacity to the Structure, such as foundations, footings, floor framing, loadbearing walls, beams or columns. The term ‘Primary Elements’ also includes other structural building elements that form part of the Owner Builder Works including: those that provide a level of personal protection such as handrails; floor-to-floor access such as stairways; and the structural flooring of the building such as floorboards.

“Conditions Conducive to Structural Damage” means noticeable building deficiencies or environmental factors that may contribute to the occurrence of Structural Damage in the Owner Builder Works.

“Major Defect” means defect of significant magnitude where rectification has to be carried out in order to avoid unsafe conditions, loss of utility or further deterioration of the Owner Builder Works.

“Secondary Elements” means those parts of the Owner Builder Works not providing loadbearing capacity to the Structure, or those nonessential elements which, in the main, perform a completion role around openings in Primary Elements and in connection with the Owner Builder Works in general such as non-loadbearing walls, partitions, wall linings, ceilings, chimneys, flashings, windows, glazing or doors.

“Finishing Elements” means, with respect to the Owner Builder Works, the fixtures, fittings and finishes applied or affixed to Primary Elements and Secondary Elements such as baths, water closets, vanity basins, kitchen cupboards, door furniture, window hardware, render, floor and wall tiles, trim or paint. The term ‘Finishing Elements’ does not include furniture or soft floor coverings such as carpet and Lino.

“Minor Defect” means defect other than a Major Defect.

“Serious Safety Hazard” means any item that may constitute an immediate or imminent risk to life, health or property. Occupational, health and safety or any other consequence of these hazards has not been assessed.

1. “Tests” means where appropriate the carrying out of tests in relation to the Owner Builder Works using the following procedures and instruments:
   • Dampness Tests – additional attention to the visual examination was given to those accessible areas which the consultant’s experience has shown to be particularly susceptible to damp problems. Instrument testing using electronic moisture detecting meter of those areas and other visible accessible elements of construction showing evidence of dampness was performed.
   • Physical Tests – the following physical actions undertaken by the consultant: opening and shutting of doors, windows and draws; operation of taps; water testing of shower recesses; and the tapping of tiles and wall plaster.

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

Unless noted in “Special Conditions or Instructions”, the Report assumes that the existing use of the Owner Builder Works, and the building more generally, will continue.

This Report only records the observations and conclusions of the Consultant about the readily observable state of the Owner Builder Works disclosed to Ripple Building Inspections and listed on this report at the time of inspection. The Report therefore cannot deal with:

1. possible concealment of defects, including but not limited to, defects concealed by lack of accessibility, obstructions such as furniture, wall linings and floor coverings, or by applied finishes such as render and paint; and
2. undetectable or latent defects, including but not limited to, defects that may not be apparent at the time of inspection due to seasonal changes, recent or prevailing weather conditions, and whether or not services have been used some time prior to the inspection being carried out.

These matters outlined above in (a) & (b) are excluded from consideration in this Report.

If the Client has any doubt about the purpose, scope and acceptance criteria on which the Report was based please discuss your concerns with the Consultant on receipt of the Report.

The Client acknowledges that, unless stated otherwise, the Client as a matter of urgency should implement any recommendation or advice given in this Report.

LIMITATIONS

The Client acknowledges:

1. A visual only inspection may be of limited use to the Client, particularly where the cause/source of a defect cannot be determined by visible inspection only. In addition to a visual inspection and in order to thoroughly inspect the Readily Accessible Areas of the Owner Builder Works – the consultant may carry out necessary noninvasive tests.
2. This Report does not include the inspection and assessment of items or matters outside the scope of the requested inspection and Report.
   1. Other items or matters may be the subject of a Special-Purpose
   2. Inspection Report, which is adequately specified (see Exclusions below).
3. This Report does not include the inspection and assessment of items or matters that do not fall within the Consultant’s direct expertise, any areas outside of the Owner Builder Works or that are not required to be inspected in order to meet the requirements of s 137B of the Building Act (unless stated otherwise).
4. The inspection only covered the Readily Accessible Areas of the Owner Builder Works. The inspection did not include areas which were inaccessible, not readily accessible or obstructed at the time of inspection. Obstructions are defined as any condition or physical limitation which inhibits or prevents inspection and may include – but are not limited to – roofing, fixed ceilings, wall linings, floor coverings, fixtures, fittings, furniture, clothes, stored articles/materials, thermal insulation, sarking, pipe/duct work, builder’s debris, vegetation, pavements, or earth.
5. Australian Standard AS4349.0-2007 Inspection of Buildings, Part 0: General Requirements recognises that a property report is not a warranty or an insurance policy against problems developing with the building in the future.
6. This Report was produced for the use of the Client. Neither the Consultant nor RBI are liable for any reliance placed on this report by any third party.
7. RBI cannot provide the Client with advice with respect to whether they need to obtain this Report in order to comply with the Building Act. The Client should seek independent professional advice as to whether they are required to comply with s 137B of the Building Act.
8. The Report has been provided with respect to the Owner Builder Works and the Client acknowledges that RBI and the Building Consultant have relied on the information provided by, or on behalf of, the Client in order to identify the Owner Builder Works when preparing this Report.
   1. Neither RBI nor the Building Consultant will be liable where the Client or
   2. Owner, or anyone acting on their behalf, has incorrectly identified the Owner Builder Works, or provided incorrect information in relation to the Owner Builder Works.
9. The Report only covers the Owner Builder Works and does not consider any other areas of the building. The Report may not cover works related to the Owner Builder Works unless the works are integral to the Owner Builder Works, requires a permit or could result in water penetration generally.
10. While the Report contains the matters that are required under s 137B(2)(a)(i) of the Building Act, the Owner is responsible for ensuring they fully comply with all the requirements set out under s 137B of the Building Act.
11. This Report is not a pre-purchase report. It has been provided to assist the owners with fulfilling their obligations under s 137B of the Building Act. Neither the Client nor any purchaser should rely on this Report when considering the full condition of the building.
12. Some works carried out in isolation are not covered by s 137B of the Building Act.
13. This Report is only valid for 6 months from the date of this Report. As per section 137B(2)(a)(ii) of the Building Act, this Report must be obtained not more than 6 months before the relevant person enters the contract to sell the building.

EXCLUSIONS

The Client acknowledges that this Report does not cover or deal with:

1. any individual Minor Defect;
2. solving or providing costs for any rectification or repair work;
3. the structural design or adequacy of any element of construction;
4. detection of wood destroying insects such as termites and wood borers;
5. the operation of fireplaces and chimneys;
6. any services including building, engineering (electronic), fire and smoke detection or mechanical;
7. lighting or energy efficiency;
8. any swimming pools and associated pool equipment or spa baths and spa equipment or the like;
9. any appliances such as dishwashers, insinkerators, ovens, stoves and ducted vacuum systems;
10. a review of occupational, health or safety issues such as asbestos content, the provision of safety glass or the use of lead based paints;
11. a review of environmental or health or biological risks such as toxic mould;
12. unless stated otherwise, whether the building complies with the provisions of any building Act, code, regulation(s) or by-laws;
13. whether the ground on which the building rests has been filled, is liable to subside, swell or shrink, is subject to landslip or tidal inundation, or if it is flood prone; and
14. any area outside the Owner Builder Works area.

Any of the above matters may be the subject of a special-purpose inspection report, which is adequately specified and undertaken by an appropriately qualified inspector.

Pre-Purchase Building Inspections

3. The report does not include an estimate of the cost for rectification of the defects noted. The overall condition of this building has been compared to similarly constructed and reasonably maintained buildings of approximate age. Areas for inspection shall only cover what is deemed safe and accessible areas by the inspector.
4. The inspection will be a visual assessment of the items listed in Appendix C to AS4349.1- 2007 for the structures within 30 metres of the building and within the site boundaries including fences.
5. Subject to safe and reasonable access the Inspection will report on the condition of each of the following areas as follows: The Inspector will inspect (subject to the minimum requirements and the Restrictions on an Inspection) the accessible “Area”:
6. a) The Interior of the Property;
7. b) The Roof Space of the Property;
8. c) The Exterior of the Property;
9. d) The Sub-Floor Space of the Property;
10. e) The Roof Exterior (subject to height and weather restrictions) of the Property;
11. f) The Property within 30m of the building relevant to the Inspection.

Restrictions on an Inspection

6. The Inspector is restricted by certain foreseeable and unforeseeable limitations during an inspection.
7. The Inspector’s foremost consideration is safety and reasonable access to an area. Therefore, the Inspector is restricted from inspecting any area where it is unsafe to do so or cannot be reasonably accessed.
8. The Inspector cannot move any furniture or any other chattel or thing to access an Area.
9. The Inspector cannot conduct an inspection that is invasive and therefore cannot inspect: the inside of walls; between floors; behind any kitchen joinery/cupboards/wardrobes/chattels; inside flat roofing; and/or inside any eaves. Note: This is not an exhaustive list.
10. The Inspector cannot cut access holes or remove screws and bolts (or any other fastenings) to access covers.
11. The Inspector cannot inspect an area if the inspector determines that the access is obstructed.
12. The Inspector cannot carry out an inspection for:
13. a) Any non-structural element as defined in the relevant standard;
14. b) Any part of the Property that cannot be seen or that requires testing;
15. c) Serviceability damp defects;
16. d) Any common property that may be under Strata Title or Company Title or any other form of Title unless explicitly stated in another signed Agreement;
17. e) Asbestos;
18. f) Magnesite;
19. g) Mould;
20. h) Anything listed on Appendix D of AS 4349.1-2007 attached to this document and marked Annexure ‘A’; and
21. i) Any timber pest activity, pest infestation or damage caused by a pest infestation and/or anything pest related.
22. j) No Inspection or comment will be made on any and not limited to plumbing conditions or any Electrical Wiring, Switches, Power Points or Electrical Appliances Including Air Conditioning Units, Heaters, or fireplaces. We strongly recommend you engage a suitably qualified tradesperson to inspect the above.
23. k) Any single minor defect;
24. l) Any cost or plan to rectify any defects and/or repair work; m) Comment on the appropriateness of any structural design or construction; electrical works; swimming pools; or any electrical appliances;
25. n) Whether fireplaces or chimneys are functional;
26. o) Any biological risks such as toxic mould;
27. p) Compliancy with any relevant building code or Act;
28. q) Comment on any latent (present but no visual) structural defect; and
29. r) Provide a comment on any risk of flooding, earthquake and/or any other singularity caused by nature that may affect the structural integrity of the Property.
30. s) This report is not a Swimming pool Safety report, and the report will not include comments on Swimming Pools, Spas including pumps and equipment.
31. As outlined in Clause c4.2 (d) of As4349.1-2007. The inspection and report WILL NOT report on any defects which may not be apparent due to prevailing weather conditions at the time of the inspection including detection of rising damp and leaks. Such defects may only become apparent in differing weather conditions
32. The Inspector may cease an Inspection or not inspect an Area, upon encountering asbestos, mould, Magnesite or heavy timber damage, which causes the Inspector to have safety concerns.
33. The Inspection Report will be limited to the Extent of Reporting and will therefore only include information in relation to:
34. a) The Area(s) inspected and/or not inspected with reasons;
35. b) Any major defects being defined as defects that need to be rectified to avoid unsafe conditions and/or a defect that is a safety hazard or will likely be a safety hazard and/or an urgent and serious safety hazard;
36. c) A general impression regarding the extent of minor defects; and
37. d) A conclusion, which will address the incidence of major and minor, defects, relative to the average condition of a property similar to the Property being the subject of the inspection. The conclusion will only comment on the overall condition of the Property.
38. The Extent of Reporting is limited to a subjective visual and non-invasive inspection only.
39. Further to the above, the Inspector will not include anything that is beyond the Extent of Reporting including, but not limited to, the cost of rectification of any defects.
40. The Inspector is restricted by the following dimensions in relation to determining if an opening or height can be reasonably accessed:

Roof Interior – Access hole minimum 400x500mm – Crawl space minimum 600x600mm – Accessed from a 3.6m ladder off a level platform and only if it is safe to do so.

Roof Exterior – Accessed from a 3.6m ladder off a level platform and only if it is safe to do so.

Subfloor – Access hole and Crawl space, subject to Inspector’s discretion as to safe and reasonable access

19. There may be further, unexpected limitations encountered by the Inspector, which can only be determined at the time of inspection.

Inspector’s Fee

20. The Client will pay to the Inspector the sum as advised by the Inspector for an Inspection Report of the Property (detailed above in this Agreement) and the final report is subject to the acknowledgments, terms and recitals within this Agreement. Limitations And Exclusions. Payment is to be received before the report is sent out electronically.
21. The Inspector will conduct a non-invasive visual inspection which will be limited to those accessible Areas and sections of the property to which Safe and Reasonable Access is both available and permitted on the date and time of the inspection. Areas where reasonable entry is denied to the inspector, or where safe and reasonable access is not available, are excluded from and do not form part of, the inspection. Those areas may be the subject of an additional inspection upon request subject to another pre-inspection agreement on the same terms herein.
22. The Inspection WILL NOT involve any invasive inspection including cutting, breaking apart, dismantling, removing or moving objects including, but not limited to, roofing, wall and ceiling sheeting, ducting, foliage, mouldings, debris, roof insulation, sarking, sisalation, floor or wall coverings, sidings, fixtures, floors, pavers, furnishings, appliances, or personal possessions.
23. a) Shower Recesses: Taps will be turned on in accordance with AS4349.1-2007 to detect apparent leaks (if water is connected). The tests may not reveal leaks or show incorrect waterproofing if silicone liquid or masonry sealant has been applied prior to the inspection. Floor grading and fall ratios do not form part of this inspection and will not be reported on. We strongly recommend you have this checked by a suitably qualified tradesperson prior to a decision to purchase.
24. Any stored or scattered goods stored items including boxes, parked cars and bikes, boats, trailers, A/C units and ducting and any external covering foliage, plants, vines, stored firewood and timbers, vines clinging to external wall surfaces, trees covering areas will hinder the inspection process.
25. The Report is not a certificate of compliance that the property complies with the requirements of any Act, regulation, ordinance, local law or by-law, or as a warranty or an insurance policy against problems developing with the building in the future.
26. Warranties and quality
27. The Inspector warrants that they will do everything reasonable to inspect the above Areas thoroughly and responsibly subject to the requirements of the AS Standard and any foreseeable or unforeseeable restrictions.
28. The Inspector warrants that it will list all the limitations encountered, restricting the Inspector within the Inspection Report.
29. The Client warrants that they will not hold the Inspector liable for any Area that the Inspector could not reasonably inspect due to access and restrictions on an inspection.
30. The Client warrants that they will not rely on this report after a period of 7 days as this is a visual inspection condition that may change between the day of the inspection and the day any defect being apparent such as, but not limited to, different weather conditions, removal of furniture, damage done by occupants, settling of the land, extreme weather damages or anything that could cause the visual effect of a defect to become known.

Indemnity

30. The Client indemnifies the Inspector:
31. a) Against any third-party losses or claims for use of the Inspection Report.
32. b) Against any claim as a result of purchasing a property that was not accurately valued.
33. c) Against any major and/or minor defect that was not evident by visual assessment at the time of the inspection.
34. d) Termination of this Agreement by the Inspector pursuant to Item 33 of this Agreement.

Complaints Procedure

31. In the event of any dispute or claim arising out of, or relating to the Inspection or the Report, you must notify Us as soon as possible of the dispute or claim by email, fax or mail. You must allow Us (which includes persons nominated by Us) to visit the property (which visit must occur within twenty-eight (28) days of your notification to Us) and give Us full access in order that We may fully investigate the complaint. You will be provided with a written response to your dispute or claim within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of the inspection. If You are not satisfied with our response, You must within twenty-one (21) days of Your receipt of Our written response refer the matter to a Mediator nominated by Us from the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators of Australia. The cost of the Mediator will be borne equally by both parties and as agreed as part of the mediated settlement. In the event You do not comply with the above Complaints Procedure and commence litigation against Us then You agree to fully indemnify Us against any awards, costs, legal fees and expenses incurred by Us in having your litigation set aside or adjourned to permit the foregoing Complaints Procedure to complete. Third-party disclaimer
32. The Report will be made solely for the use and benefit of the Client. No liability or responsibility whatsoever, in contract or tort, is accepted by any third party who may rely on the report wholly or in part. Any third parties acting or relying on the report, in whole or in part will do so at their own risk.

Default and Termination

33. The Inspector reserves the exclusive right to terminate this Pre-Inspection Agreement on zero days’ notice due to weather constraints, non-payment of the Inspector’s Fee or any other safety concern. Only the Inspector may terminate the Agreement.
34. If the Inspector’s fee is refunded for any reason whatsoever then the Inspection Report provided (if any) will be deemed invalid and annulled.

Severability

35. Any term within this Agreement that is deemed invalid in any jurisdiction is only invalid to the extent specified by the jurisdiction in that specific jurisdiction. It does not invalidate any other term of this Agreement. Furthermore, if a term or terms are found to be invalid and thereby severed from this Agreement the Agreement and its surviving terms are not invalidated. Bar on claims
36. The Client is barred from making a claim against the Inspector by virtue of the Client’s Acknowledgments. Prohibition on the Provision or Sale of the Report
37. The Report may not be sold or provided to any other Person without Our express written permission unless the Client is authorised to do so by Legislation. If We give our permission, it may be subject to conditions such as payment of a further fee by the other Person and agreement from the other Person to comply with this clause. However, we may sell the Report to any other Person although there is no obligation for Us to do so. Acknowledgement
38. You agree to contact the Inspector once You have read the report. 
 By agreeing to this pre-inspection agreement, you confirm that You will read this Inspection Report in its entirety prior to purchasing the inspected property and agree to call, Text, SMS or email the Inspector if you have any further questions about this report.

Definitions

1. Acknowledgment: means a thing that a person is intimately aware of and has taken full consideration of and accepts that piece of information unconditionally.
2. Area: means the area and/or areas listed in clause 5 only.
3. AS Standards: means AS 4349.1 2007 in this Agreement.
4. Client: means the person detailed as the same on the first page of this agreement only.
5. Client’s acknowledgments: means the items listed in paragraph 2 that the Client is intimately aware of and has taken full consideration of and accepts that piece of information unconditionally.
6. Defect means a fault or deviation from the intended condition of the material, assembly or component.
7. Inspection: a reasonable and careful visual appraisal of the Property in order to comment on the visually detectable defects.
8. Inspector: means the organisation detailed as the same on the first page of this agreement only.
9. Inspector’s fee: means clause 20.
10. Limitation means any factor that prevents full achievement of the purpose of the inspection
11. Major defect: a defect that is significant enough to require rectification work in order to avoid unsafe conditions, loss of utility or cause further damage to the overall quality of the Property.
12. Minor defect: any defect not classified as a major defect.
13. Property: means the property details listed in this Agreement.
14. Readily Accessible Areas means areas that can be easily and safely inspected without injury to person or property as defined in the clearance table listed in clause
15. Report: means the document and any attachments issued to the Client by the Inspector subject to the whole of this Agreement.
16. Restrictions on an Inspection: means paragraphs 6 to 19 of this Agreement.
17. Safe and Reasonable Access does not include the use of destructive or invasive inspection methods or moving furniture or stored goods. The Standard AS4349.1-2007 provides information concerning safe and reasonable access:
18. Or where these clearances are not available, areas within the consultant’s unobstructed line of sight and within arm’s length.

Note: Only areas where reasonable and safe access is available will be inspected. No Inspection will be carried out where there are safety concerns, or obstructions, or the space available is less than outlined and tabled in Clause 18 of this agreement.

⚠️ A visual‑only inspection may provide limited value to clients or prospective purchasers, particularly where the property is fully furnished, which can introduce additional restrictions and obstructions; we therefore strongly recommend an invasive inspection where feasible, or, if that is not possible, arranging access to unfurnished and unobstructed property to improve visual access for the inspector. When commissioning a building inspection only in accordance with AS 4349.1 – 2007, no timber testing (including tapping or probing of visible and accessible timbers) will be conducted, and moisture detection equipment will be used solely to identify moisture levels indicative of rising damp or leaks, not to detect termites, termite nests, or any termite infestation. We strongly recommend engaging a qualified pest inspector to conduct a pre‑purchase timber pest inspection and report in accordance with AS 4349.3 – 2010. By accepting this agreement for a building inspection only, you acknowledge that we cannot and will not be held liable for any termite infestation or damage subsequently identified at the property.

If you haven’t done so, upgrade your inspection to include a timber pest inspection.

If there is anything in this agreement that you do not understand, then prior to the commencement of the inspection, you must contact us by phone or in person and have us explain and clarify the matter to your satisfaction. Your failure to contact us means that you have read this agreement and do fully understand the contents.

TIMBER PEST PRE-INSPECTION AGREEMENT

Definitions

1. The relevant definitions listed in this Agreement are listed at the end of this Agreement. The Client’s Acknowledgments
2. The Client acknowledges that:
3. a) The Inspector reserves the right to cancel the inspection and only the deposit, if any, will be reimbursed to the Client.
4. b) The Inspection Report will be drafted in accordance with and limited to: the purpose; scope; and minimum requirements as set out in the Australian Standard Inspection of Buildings AS4349.3 2010 (AS Standards). A copy of the appropriate Standard with Appendices may be obtained from Standards Australia at your cost. The Client warrants that they have been given a reasonable opportunity to peruse the relevant Australian Standards.
5. c) The Inspection Report is also limited by the Restrictions on an Inspection, as well as any rights held by an Inspector to ensure their own safety and/or any other limitations set out in the terms of this Agreement.
6. d) It is implicit that the Inspection Report is a subjective visual inspection.
7. e) The Client will not rely on the report for valuation purposes or solely in their final decision to purchase the Property.
8. f) The Inspection Report is for the Client’s exclusive use and is not to be given to a third party (any individual who does not have a direct connection with the legal transaction) without the Inspector’s written consent.
9. g) The Scope of Inspection set out in this Agreement is only indicative as the Inspector is restricted by their ability to access any Area which is subject to all safety considerations. The Client further acknowledges that the Inspector cannot breach the same to carry out an inspection.
10. h) Some Restrictions on an Inspection are foreseeable while others are only known at the time of inspection.
11. i) That the Inspector is the only person who can determine, at the time of the inspection, what they are restricted by during an inspection.
12. j) The Inspector will carry out a visual and non-invasive inspection limited by access and restrictions.
13. k) The Inspector is not liable for any Area not inspected due to Restrictions on an Inspection.
14. l) That any claim for loss is limited to the cost of the inspection.
15. m) That the Client has read all the terms and has not relied on any representations made by the Inspector or anyone else before entering this Agreement.
16. n) That just because a pest infestation is not visible at the time of inspection does not guarantee that there is no pest infestation affecting the Property.
17. o) That the Client acknowledges acceptance through the performance of this Agreement by way of payment of the agreed Inspector’s fee, and confirming that the agreement and terms and conditions have been read and understood by the Client and/or as such ticking the appropriate check box when ordering online.
18. p) The Client will not hold the Inspector liable for any losses suffered on relying on the Inspection Report considering the acknowledgments above and all the terms of this Agreement.
19. q) The Client acknowledges that any recommendations or advice made by the inspector in relation to the inspection at the subject property should be implemented by the Client as a matter of urgency

Scope of Inspection

3. Subject to this entire Agreement, You have requested a Standard Non-Invasive, Visual Timber Pest Inspection. If a Non-Standard Visual Inspection report is required, You must specify to us what kind of inspection you require in the Special Requirements Text Box.

Unless specified in this Agreement by the Inspector, the above inspection shall be conducted as a Standard Non-Invasive, Visual Timber Pest Inspection. Special Pest Detection Report:*

This report will include the Standard Timber Pest Inspection Report and any special requirements:

The Client Agrees that any Special Requirements for the Timber Pest Inspection are to be submitted in writing to the Inspector / Inspection Firm prior to the commencement of the inspection.

A Subterranean Termite Management Proposal: *

This only compiles the Inspector’s observations and comments (pursuant to Australian Standards AS 3660.2) on how to treat any subterranean termite infestation/mitigate any future subterranean termite inspection.

* Unless otherwise and implicitly stated in this Agreement the Inspector will produce a Standard Timber Pest Inspection Report. (Visual And Non Invasive) The Standard Non-Invasive and Visual Timber Pest Detection Report:*

This report will only address timber pest activity and determine (by visual and non-invasive assessment of the surface of timber work only) if the timber has been damaged by pest activity. The Inspector will make a comparison of the property to a similar property in order to determine whether pest mitigation strategies have been upheld in the construction of the property. This will comment on the likelihood of future pest activity on the property. If there is no similar property to be compared to then the comment of future/likely pest activity will be subject to the Inspector’s general knowledge. In relation to Strata common property will not be inspected.

Unless specified in this Agreement the Inspector by the Client, the above inspection shall be conducted as detailed above.

4. The Inspector will inspect (subject to the minimum requirements and the Restrictions on an Inspection) the accessible “Area”:
5. a) The Interior of the Property (Excluding furniture and stored items);
6. b) The Roof Space of the Property;
7. c) The Exterior of the Property;
8. d) The Sub-Floor Space of the Property;
9. e) The Roof Exterior of the Property (subject to height and weather restrictions);
10. f) The Site within 30m of the Property and within the boundary relevant to the Inspection.

Restrictions on an Inspection

5. The Inspector is restricted by certain foreseeable and unforeseeable limitations during an inspection.
6. All inspections (whether in accordance with AS 4349.3-2010 or AS 3660.2-2000) will be a non-invasive visual inspection and will be limited to those areas and sections of the property to which Reasonable Access (see definitions below) is both available and permitted on the date and time of Inspection.
7. The Inspector’s foremost consideration is safety and reasonable access to an Area. Therefore the Inspector is restricted from inspecting any Area: where it is unsafe to do so; obstructed; and/or cannot be accessed.
8. The Inspector cannot move any furniture or any other chattel or thing in order to access an Area.
9. The Inspector cannot conduct an inspection that is invasive and therefore cannot inspect: the inside of walls; between and under floors and floor coverings; behind any kitchen joinery/cupboards/wardrobes/chattels; inside flat roofing; and/or inside any eaves. This is not an exhaustive list.
10. The Inspector cannot cut access holes or remove screws and bolts (or any other fastenings) to access covers.
11. The Inspector cannot inspect an Area if the inspector determines that his access is obstructed.
12. The Inspector cannot cut access holes or remove screws and bolts (or any other fastenings) to access covers.
13. The Inspector cannot inspect an Area if the inspector determines that his access is obstructed.
14. The Inspector cannot carry out an inspection for:
15. a) Any non-structural element as described in the relevant standard;
16. b) Any part of the Property that cannot be seen or that requires testing;
17. c) An Area that cannot be safely accessed or is obstructed;
18. d) Serviceability damp defects;
19. e) Any common property that maybe under Strata Title or Company Title or any other form of Title unless explicitly stated in another signed Agreement;
20. f) Asbestos;
21. g) Magnesite;
22. h) Mould;
23. i) Any major and/or minor building defects and/or structural damage;
24. j) Drywood termites as colonies may be too small to detect by visual assessment; and
25. k) Early stages of borer activity for European House Borer (Hylotrupes bajulus) as borer damage may not be apparent of the surface of the timber and cannot be detected by visual assessment.
26. The Inspection Report will not provide any timber pest preventative strategies or plans; it will only suggest a plan if implicitly required which is subject to clause 3.
27. The Inspector may cease an Inspection or not inspect an Area, upon encountering asbestos, mould, Magnesite or heavy timber damage caused by a pest infestation, which causes the Inspector to have any safety concerns.
28. The Visual Inspection Report will be limited to the Extent of Reporting and will therefore only include information in relation to:
29. a) The Area(s) inspected and/or not inspected with reasons;
30. b) Option 1 in clause 3 above unless implicitly stated otherwise;
31. c) Timber pest activity and/or damage;
32. d) A visual appraisal of whether wood decay, rot or fungi was/was not found;
33. e) A general impression regarding the extent of any damage caused by any pest infestations; and
34. f) A conclusion which will address the incidence of any pest infestations.
35. The Extent of Reporting is limited to a subjective Visual Inspection only. Accordingly, the Report IS NOT AND WILL NOT guarantee that an infestation and/or damage does not exist in any inaccessible or partly inaccessible areas or sections of the property. Nor can it guarantee that a future infestation of Termite Pests will not occur or be found.
36. Further to the above, the Inspector will not include anything that is beyond the Extent of Reporting including, but not limited to, the cost of rectification of any defects.
37. The Inspector is restricted by the following dimensions in relation to determining if an opening can be reasonably accessed:

Roof Interior – Access hole minimum 400x500mm – Crawl space minimum 600x600mm – Accessed from a 3.6m ladder off a level platform and only if it is safe to do so.

Roof Exterior – Accessed from a 3.6m ladder off a level platform and only if it is safe to do so.

Subfloor – Access hole and Crawl space, subject to Inspector’s discretion as to safe and reasonable access

21. There may be further, unexpected limitations encountered by the Inspector, which can only be determined at the time of inspection.

Acceptance

22. Inspector’s fee: the Client will pay to the Inspector the sum as advised by the Inspector for a Visual Inspection Report of the Property (detailed above in this Agreement) and the final report is subject to this acknowledgments, terms and recitals within this Agreement.
23. The Client agrees that in signing this agreement they have read and understood the contents of this Agreement and that the inspection will be carried out in accordance with this document. The Client agrees to pay for the inspection on or before delivery of the report.
24. If the Client does not sign and return a copy of this Agreement (subject to paragraphs 32 and 33 of this Agreement) payment of the Inspector’s fee is deemed as acceptance of this Agreement and the inspection will be carried out according to the terms herein.

Warranties and quality

25. The Inspector warrants that they will take reasonable steps to inspect the above Areas thoroughly and responsibly subject to the requirements of the AS 4349.3-2010 and any foreseeable or unforeseeable restrictions.
26. The Inspector warrants that the report will list all of the limitations encountered, restricting the Inspector and the inspection process.
27. The Client warrants that they will not hold the Inspector liable for any Areas that the Inspector could not reasonably inspect due to the restrictions on an inspection.
28. The Client warrants that they will not rely on this report after a period of 7 days as this is a visual inspection condition that may change between the day of the inspection and the day any defect being apparent such as, but not limited to, different weather conditions, removal of furniture, damage done by occupants, settling of the land, extreme weather damages or anything that could cause the visual effect of a defect to become known.

Indemnity

29. The Client indemnifies the Inspector:
30. a) Against any third-party losses or claims for use of the Inspection Report.
31. b) Against any claim as a result of purchasing a property that was not accurately assessed.
32. c) Against any pest infestation that was not evident by visual assessment at the time of the inspection.
33. d) Termination of this Agreement by the Inspector pursuant to Item 29 of this Agreement.

Complaints Procedure

30. In the event of any dispute or claim arising out of, or relating to the Inspection or the Report, you must notify Us as soon as possible of the dispute or claim by email, fax or mail. You must allow Us (which includes persons nominated by Us) to visit the property (which visit must occur within twenty-eight (28) days of your notification to Us) and give Us full access in order that We may fully investigate the complaint. You will be provided with a written response to your dispute or claim within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of the inspection. If You are not satisfied with our response, you must within twenty-one (21) days of Your receipt of Our written response refer the matter to a Mediator nominated by Us from the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators of Australia. The cost of the Mediator will be borne equally by both parties and as agreed as part of the mediated settlement. In the event You do not comply with the above Complaints Procedure and commence litigation against Us then You agree to fully indemnify Us against any awards, costs, legal fees and expenses incurred by Us in having your litigation set aside or adjourned to permit the foregoing Complaints Procedure to complete.

Default and termination

31. The Inspector reserves the exclusive right to terminate this Pre-Inspection Agreement on 1 days’ notice due to weather constraints, non-payment of the Inspector’s Fee or any other safety concern. Only the Inspector may terminate the Agreement.
32. If the Inspector’s fee is refunded for any reason whatsoever then the Inspection Report provided (if any) will be deemed invalid and annulled.

Severability

33. Any term within this Agreement that is deemed invalid in any jurisdiction is only invalid to the extent specified by the jurisdiction in that specific jurisdiction. It does not invalidate any other term of this Agreement. Furthermore if a term or terms are found to be invalid and thereby severed from this Agreement the Agreement and its surviving terms are not invalidated.

Bar on claims

34. The Client is barred from making a claim against the Inspector by virtue of the Client’s Acknowledgments.

Acknowledgement

35. You agree to contact the Inspector once You have read the report.

By agreeing to this pre-inspection agreement you confirm that You will read this Inspection Report in its entirety prior to purchasing the inspected property and agree to call, Text, SMS or email the Inspector if you have any further questions about this report.

Definitions

1. Acknowledgment: A thing that a person is intimately aware of and has taken full consideration of and accepts that piece of information unconditionally.
2. Access hole: An opening or cut out allowing entry to carry out an inspection.
3. Active: The presence of live timber pests at the time of inspection
4. Area: The area and/or areas listed in clause 4 only.
5. AS Standards: AS4349.3 2010 only (unless specifically stated that AS 3660.2 also applies) in this Agreement.
6. Client: The person the inspection is carried out for detailed as the same on the first page of this agreement only.
7. Client’s acknowledgments: The items listed in paragraph 2 that the Client is intimately aware of and has taken full consideration of and accepts that piece of information unconditionally.
8. Drywood Termites: Termites that do not require a water source other than the atmosphere and the moisture within the timber in which they occur.
9. Excessive Moisture Conditions: Presence of moisture conducive to timber pest activity. 10. High Moisture Readings: Higher than normal moisture levels as detected by electronic testing equipment.
10. Inspection: Accessible and Visual Inspection of the Property. 1
11. Inspector: The Individual or organisation detailed as the same on the first page of this agreement only.
12. Inspector’s fee: Refer to clause 22.
13. Property: The property inspected including all timber structures such as patios, decking, fences, timber retaining walls, and stumps up to a distance of 30 metres from the main building.
14. Restrictions on an Inspection: Refer to paragraphs 5 to 18 of this Agreement.
15. Safe And Reasonable Access: Only areas that are deemed safe and reasonable access is available are inspected. Safe access means areas where safe, unobstructed access is provided and the minimum heights or clearances specified in clause 20 are present, or where these clearances are not present, areas within the inspector’s unobstructed line of sight and within arm’s length. The inspector has sole discretion in determining safe access to any area of the property and will make said determination at the time of the inspection only.
16. Timber pest damage: visual damage caused by Timber Pests.
17. Timber pest activity: visual signs of Timber Pests.
18. Timber Pests: Subterranean and damp wood termites, and specific wood destroying agents being: chemical delignification (damage of timber by chemical reaction); fungal decay (damage to timber caused by soft rot and decay fungi); wood borers (wood damaging pests of the genus Coleoptera); and termites (wood damaging pests of the genus Isoptera)

⚠️

Please be advised that a visual‑only inspection provides limited insight for the client or prospective purchaser. Where a property is fully furnished, access and visibility may be further restricted by obstructions that can conceal potential issues. We therefore strongly recommend an invasive inspection where practicable to enable a more comprehensive assessment. If an invasive inspection is not feasible, ensuring the property is unfurnished and unobstructed will materially enhance the inspector’s ability to observe and assess accessible areas.

If any part of this agreement is unclear, you must contact us—by phone or in person—prior to the commencement of the inspection so that we can provide clarification to your satisfaction. Failure to seek clarification before the inspection will be taken as your acknowledgment that you have read, understood, and accepted the terms of this agreement in full.