Pre-Engagement Agreement – The Best Inspector – Building Inspection Services

Dear Client,

Thank you for choosing The Best Inspector Pty Ltd to perform your Building Inspection. We endeavour to provide you with the highest level of service possible in accordance with the Australian standards for building inspections.

Once you’ve read and agreed to this document, the inspection can occur. You need to be comfortable that you’ve read and understood this document in its entirety before an inspection has commenced.

This Pre-Engagement Agreement covers

Standard Building Inspections
Combined Building & Timber Pest inspections
Strata or Commercial Termite Inspections

Service Agreement

1. This inspection agreement is made between you (the Client) and The Best Inspector Pty Ltd. You have requested an inspection of your property for the purpose of preparing a Building & Pest Inspection Report (“Report”), which will outline the Inspector’s findings and recommendations.

2. The purpose of the inspection is to provide you with an overview of the Inspector’s findings at the time of the inspection, along with advice on the nature and extent of those findings.

3. This Report is prepared exclusively for you, the Client, as per the Pre-Inspection Agreement. The Report is not intended for reliance by any other party. Any third party using this Report does so at their own risk and agrees to release The Best Inspector Pty Ltd and its agent, The Inspector, from all liability.

4. If this Report has been commissioned by a third party, it is understood that the third party has communicated the terms and conditions, including the scope, limitations, disclaimers, exclusions, client acknowledgments, and dispute resolution process.

5. This Report is for your personal use only and may not be used or distributed by real estate agents or other third parties for marketing purposes. The information is tailored to your needs and should not be used for promotional purposes or as the sole document to determine if the property is suitable for purchase or sale.

6. This Report provides a general appraisal and should not be considered a comprehensive assessment. For a thorough evaluation, further inspections by specialists and qualified tradespeople are recommended. Their expertise will offer a detailed analysis and address specific issues not covered in this general appraisal.

Scope of the Report

7. This Report is limited to the Inspector’s findings at the time of the inspection. Any conditions not within the scope defined herein or that occur after the inspection are expressly excluded.

The Inspector will inspect the following areas (assuming there is safe and reasonable access).
The exterior of the building
The interior of the building
The subfloor of the property
The roof void of the property
The roof exterior (subject to height and weather restrictions) of the property
Accessible surroundings within 30m of the central building and within the property boundary

8. This Report addresses only the following, as discernible to the Inspector at the time of the inspection:

Major Defects in Primary Elements, including Structural Damage and Conditions Conducive to Structural Damage;
Major Defects in Secondary and Finishing Elements, and collective Minor Defects (unless individually deemed significant by the Inspector);
Serious Safety Hazards;
Detection or non-detection of Timber Pest Attack and Conditions Conducive to Timber Pest Attack, as discernible to the Inspector.

9. This Report is based on the observations and conclusions readily observable at the building or site, given the property’s condition at the time of the inspection.

10. This Report does not include the inspection or assessment of items or matters beyond the Inspector’s direct expertise.

Inspection Limitations

11. The inspection is limited to readily accessible areas of the building and site based on the Inspector’s visual examination of surface work (excluding furniture and stored items) and may include the carrying out of tests.

12. For strata or company title properties, the inspection is confined to the interior and immediate exterior of the residence. Common property areas are not included, and the Inspector will not inspect these areas.

13. The Inspector’s findings are limited by any restrictions or obstructions that prevented full assessment of the building or site, including:

Possible concealment of defects,
Undetectable or latent defects,
Areas obstructed at the time of inspection or not readily accessible,
Strata/common property areas.

14. Photos & Findings: While the inspection covered all accessible elements as outlined by the Australian Standard, the report highlights only a representative sample of each identified defect rather than every occurrence. Photos provided illustrate these issues, but problems often extend beyond the areas shown.

15. Height: Due to height restrictions, only a limited portion of the external areas above the ground floor were inspected. Features such as external windows, eaves, fascia, and similar elements may not have been fully examined. The inspection was restricted to accessible areas, and aspects of higher stories may not have been thoroughly assessed.

16. Concrete Slab Homes: When the edge of the slab is hidden by concrete paths, garden beds, lawns, pavers, or other obstructions, termites can enter the property without being immediately visible. This concealment allows termites to cause significant damage to hidden framing timbers before they are detected. Even experienced termite inspectors may have difficulty identifying termite activity if it is obscured by wall linings or other barriers.

Termite presence is often only revealed when they damage timbers in the roof void, provided these are not hidden by insulation, or when other visible timbers are affected. If termite damage is found in the roof area, it is extremely likely that concealed framing timbers may also be severely damaged. It is essential to ensure that the edge of the concrete slab remains visible. This may require the total removal of soil, garden beds, paths, pavers, or other features that cover the slab edge. It is essential to keep at least 75mm of the slab edge exposed above ground level at all times. Additionally, weep holes should be kept unobstructed to ensure proper ventilation and to assist in the detection of termite activity.

17. Roof Voids/Attics: Inspecting roof voids or attics with insulation can potentially damage both the insulation and attic framing. If the attic has deep insulation or insulation covering the joists, full inspection is not feasible due to restricted visibility and accessibility. The inspection will be limited to viewing the roof void from the manhole. The Inspector will not enter a roof void or attic if it is deemed unsafe or if there is a risk of causing damage. Please be aware that if Reflective foil sheeting is present in the roof void it poses a major safety concern and makes the space unsafe to enter. Metal sheeting can become electrified due to the staples used to secure it, which can cause severe electrical hazards, including fatal accidents.

18. Roof: This report cannot guarantee that the roof will not leak now or in the future. To definitively determine watertightness, observation during prolonged rainfall is required. The inspection does not guarantee that roof components, such as flashing, will not develop leaks, nor does it verify if the roof cladding has been installed with the correct pitch.

19. Gutter line Inspection: The inspection of the external roof area was conducted from an elevated position or gutter line only, providing a visual assessment of accessible areas. Due to safety and accessibility limitations, the inspection was confined to visible components from these vantage points. The roof will not be walked on. Roof areas must be accessible via a 3.6m ladder used safely from ground level; any areas above this height were not inspected or reported on. For a comprehensive evaluation of inaccessible or concealed areas, further assessment may be recommended.

20. Retaining Walls: Retaining walls with a height of 700mm or more above ground level were examined solely through visual assessment. These wall/s must be designed and certified by a structural engineer. The performance and structural integrity of these walls are not covered by this inspection. To obtain a thorough evaluation, a structural engineer must conduct a detailed investigation. That investigation should consider several critical factors, including the effectiveness of drainage systems, load-bearing capacity, appropriate sizing of components, and the batter of the walls.

Reasonable Access

21. Reasonable Access means that the inspector has safe and clear entry to manholes or other access points without the need to move personal belongings. The following dimensions are considered reasonable for access:

Subfloor: A manhole of 40cm x 50cm, with a crawl space of 40cm x 50cm.
Roof Void: A manhole of 40cm x 50cm, with a crawl space of 60cm x 60cm.
Roof Exteriors: These areas must be accessible using a ladder of 3.6m in length, used safely from ground level.

22.If the clearance between the ground and the lowest point of the flooring components is less than 500mm, Australian Standard 3660 recommends excavating the ground to achieve the necessary clearance. Storing materials in the subfloor area is not advised, as it reduces ventilation, increases the risk of termite infestation, and complicates the inspection process.

23. The Client warrants that, to their reasonable knowledge, the building site is safe and free from hazardous materials, and does not pose a dangerous environment or workplace safety concern for the Inspector, agents, employees, or other personnel.

Exclusions

24. This Report does not cover the following:

Individual minor defects (unless deemed appropriate by the inspector)
Costs for rectification or repair work
Structural design or adequacy of construction elements
Building compliance with Acts, codes, regulations, or by-laws
Operation of fireplaces, chimneys, gas fixtures, and fittings
Building, engineering, fire, and smoke detection or mechanical services
Lighting or energy efficiency
Swimming pools, associated equipment, spa baths, and related equipment
Appliances or white goods, including dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens, stoves, and ducted vacuum systems
Occupational, health, or safety issues, including asbestos content, safety glass, or lead-based paints
Environmental, health, or biological risks, such as toxic mould
Invasive inspection techniques, including unscrewing, cutting, breaking apart, dismantling, removing, or moving objects such as manholes, roof sheeting, ducting, foliage, insulation, sarking, furniture, appliances, or personal possessions
Ground conditions, including fill, subsidence, swelling, shrinking, landslip, tidal inundation, or flood proneness or other geological-related issues.
Inspection of common property areas or strata/company records in strata and company title properties
Concealed damp proofing or framing timbers
Magnesite flooring
Adjoining properties

Important Note

25. Compliance – Properties must comply with all council regulations, relevant Building Codes of Australia, and any applicable Australian Standards. Please be aware that this is NOT a Certificate of Compliance or a compliance report of any kind. It is a reasonable attempt to identify major defects/safety concerns visible at the time of the inspection.

26. Concealed Defects – This report does not address defects hidden from view or issues influenced by weather conditions, such as rising damp and leaks. It also excludes: document analysis, electrical installations, environmental factors like proximity to flight paths, railways, busy roads, and noise levels, health and safety concerns, heritage issues, illegal building or plumbing work, matters regulated solely by statute, neighbourhood issues, non-structural aspects of swimming pools and spas, security matters, site drainage beyond surface water drainage, and the durability of exposed finishes. Furthermore, any areas or items not accessible for inspection by the inspector are also excluded from this report.

27. Cracking – Please be aware that if any cracking is observed internally or externally in the floors, walls, ceilings, or external elements, we cannot guarantee that these issues will not worsen or expand over time, as such changes are unpredictable. We strongly recommend consulting a structural engineer for a more detailed evaluation and advice. This assessment is based on visible damage and may not identify all potential underlying problems. Please note that our inspection categorized cracks as follows:

Hairline Cracks (≤0.1 mm): Category 0 – No significant damage.
Fine Cracks (≤1.0 mm): Category 1 – Typically not needing repair.
Noticeable Cracks (≤5.0 mm): Category 2 – May require minor repairs; potential for doors and windows to stick.
Significant Cracks (>5.0 mm, ≤15.0 mm): Category 3 – Likely requires extensive repairs; possible issues with doorframes and structural elements.
Severe Cracks (>15.0 mm): Category 4 – Major repairs needed; significant structural concerns.

28. Internal Inspections – This inspection only covers the general condition of visible areas. Carpets, floor coverings, cupboards, cabinets, joinery, finishes, and fittings can obstruct access to the underside of flooring, potentially hiding defects or timber pest damage that may go undetected. The condition of walls behind coverings, panelling, and furnishings is not assessed. Additionally, wood-burning stoves and other fireboxes are outside the scope of this inspection. For added peace of mind, we recommend having these fireboxes tested before purchasing.

29. Loading Capacity – The loading capacity of elevated structures can vary significantly based on design, materials, and construction methods. Load-bearing capacity has not been tested or verified. To ensure safety and structural integrity, it is crucial that a licensed structural engineer examines all elevated structures to determine their maximum load limit. Overloading the balcony beyond its designed capacity can lead to severe structural damage or failure. Always consult a structural engineer before adding any significant weight or making alterations to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent potential hazards.

30. Rooms Below Ground Level – Any rooms located partially or fully below the external ground level are at a high risk of moisture ingress and dampness. Inadequate drainage around the property can exacerbate moisture issues, particularly during storms or periods of heavy rainfall. It’s important to note that standard building and pest inspections are highly unlikely to detect subterranean issues. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to contact the local council to ensure that all rooms have received the necessary approvals.

31. No Guarantee – This report does not guarantee that defects or damage do not exist in areas that are inaccessible or partially accessible. For a more comprehensive evaluation of such areas, a special-purpose property report will need to be arranged.

32. Safety Glass – Older houses built before 1980 may have glazing that doesn’t meet today’s safety standards, such as AS1288:2021. To enhance safety, consider replacing glass panes in doors and windows, especially in high-traffic areas, with safety glass or applying shatterproof film. This will ensure your glass complies with modern safety requirements. If the existing glass already meets these standards, no additional action is needed. Regular updates and inspections can help keep your property safe and up to date.

33. Shower Recesses – Shower areas are visually inspected for leaks, but leaks may not be evident unless the shower is used extensively. Confirming the watertightness of shower areas and surrounds is beyond this inspection’s scope. Proper sealing and ongoing maintenance are crucial, as minor imperfections can cause water damage. While tests may be conducted if water is connected, they may not detect leaks or improper waterproofing if temporary sealants, like silicone or masonry, are used. These sealants may last for months before failing. The inspection involves running water and visual checks, but prolonged use might reveal leaks not detected during the brief inspection. The absence of visible leaks during the inspection does not guarantee the absence of leaks.

34. Stairs and Balustrades – According to the National Construction Code Section 3.9, there are specific safety requirements for stairs, landings, and balustrades. Many of these features built before 1996 DO NOT meet current standards. To ensure safety, it is essential to upgrade them to align with the latest regulations.

35. Surface Water and Drainage – Surface water runoff can impact foundation materials and, consequently, the property’s footing. To mitigate this, ensure that water is directed away from the house or into stormwater pipes by hiring a licensed drainage plumber. This inspection does not cover the general adequacy of site drainage. Comments on surface water drainage are limited, as drainage effectiveness may seem adequate during dry periods but could prove insufficient during heavy rainfall. Any observations in this report are based on conditions at the time of inspection. For a thorough assessment, it is recommended further testing to identify any illegal connections, blockages, or broken drains.

36. Swimming Pools – Swimming pools and spas are not included in the standard building report as per AS4349.1-2007 and are not covered in this report. We strongly recommend consulting a pool expert to inspect the pool, its equipment, plumbing, and compliance with pool fencing standards. Neglecting this inspection and the necessary recommendations could lead to fines for non-compliance with regulations.

37. Thermal Imaging – Thermal imaging was conducted on the property to identify potential issues not visible to the naked eye. This advanced technique detects temperature variations within the building materials, helping to reveal hidden problems such as moisture intrusion, insulation deficiencies, and termite activity. It’s important to note that the accuracy of thermal readings can be influenced by several factors, such as obstructions, ambient temperature, and wall thickness; these factors can hinder accurate thermal assessments. Thermal imaging falls outside the scope of the Australian Standards and has been used as an indication tool only. All observations and findings reflect the conditions at the time of the inspection.

38. Timber-framed windows – Can sometimes bind or stick due to seasonal fluctuations in moisture content. This is usually a minor defect that may require a carpenter’s adjustments. If the consultant notices fungal decay on the timber frames or deteriorated putty seals, they will avoid operating the windows to prevent damage. Similarly, windows that are sticking, binding, or painted shut will not be forcibly opened. Additionally, the presence of water leaks around windows and their surroundings cannot be assessed without rain.

39. Water Testing – Any water testing performed during the inspection was conducted for a limited duration. This short-term testing may not uncover potential issues that could become apparent with prolonged exposure or use. Extended water testing might reveal problems or leaks that were not detectable within the time constraints of the inspection. Therefore, while initial testing may not indicate any immediate issues, prolonged use could potentially expose problems that were not ascertainable at the time of the inspection.

40. Should the Client seek information related to one of the exclusions above, that information must be sourced externally.

Acceptance Criteria

41. The Inspector will compare the inspected building with similar buildings built around the same period. The building will be assessed against ordinary building construction practices at the time of construction and maintained to a serviceable standard.

42. The Inspector assumes in their Report that the existing use of the building or site will continue unless specified otherwise in the Special Conditions or Instructions.

Timber Pest Finding

43. Borers – Borers are the larval stage of various beetle species. Adult beetles lay their eggs within timber, which then hatch into larvae that bore through the wood. These larvae may remain concealed in the timber for several years while in their dormant pupal stage. In this stage, they metamorphose into adult beetles, which cut a hole in the timber’s surface to emerge, mate, and lay new eggs, continuing the cycle. The presence of these emergence holes is typically the only sign of their activity. For further details, refer to the report if applicable.
Anobium punctatum (Furniture Beetle) commonly attacks softwood flooring, shelving timbers, and timber panelling. It can cause significant damage if untreated for many years. Infestation is usually observed in timbers that have been in use for 10 to 20 years or more.
Lyctus brunneus (Powder Post Beetle) attacks the sapwood of specific hardwood species. Structural timbers, which should contain less than 25% of Lyctus-susceptible sapwood, are less likely to be affected. For this reason, structural damage is rare, and replacement or treatment of affected timbers is generally not required.
Queensland Pine Beetle attacks flooring and wall timbers. It is difficult to confirm activity without damaging the timbers. It is advisable to assume current borer activity unless there is written evidence of recent treatment. For long-term solutions, replacing affected timbers is preferable. Chemical treatments may be considered as a less effective, lower-cost option.
Such treatments are applied to the underside of soft pine flooring timbers and other affected timbers as needed.
Non-commercial borers typically attack dead trees, logs, and tree stumps and are generally not a threat to timber used in buildings. No treatment is necessary for this species.

44. Drywood termites – Drywood termites are a species that infest hard and dry wood by flying into homes. Unlike other types of termites, such as subterranean termites, drywood termites do not require dampness in the wood to establish an infestation. Instead, they can thrive in dry wood environments. Drywood termites differ from dampwood termites in that they nest within the wood itself rather than in the soil. This nesting behaviour means that drywood termites can remain hidden inside wooden structures, making visual detection during inspection virtually impossible. it is advisable to seek a specialized invasive inspection if concerned about drywood termites.

45. Evidence of Termite Damage – Any timber damage identified in this report should be evaluated by a qualified builder. To thoroughly assess the extent of this damage, obtaining a special-purpose building report is crucial. Such an evaluation often requires invasive inspection techniques, including probing and the removal of lining materials, which were not performed during this inspection. It’s important to understand that the severity and extent of timber damage may become significantly clearer with these invasive methods. Therefore, the damage described in this report is provided for the purpose of guiding treatment specifications and should not be used to determine repair or replacement costs. For an accurate assessment of the timber damage and associated costs, consult with a building expert who can perform a detailed inspection and provide a comprehensive evaluation.

46. Fungal decay (wood rot) – Fungal decay, commonly referred to as wood rot, is a significant issue related to timber pests. Both termites and wood rot thrive in environments with excessive moisture and warmth. Minor fungal decay can often be managed by removing the affected timber sections and filling the resulting gaps with a builder’s filler. For areas with moderate decay, replacing the compromised timber sections is necessary. In cases of severe fungal decay, it is essential to replace the entire affected timber member, ideally with treated hardwood to prevent future issues. Timber used for outdoor applications is generally inadvisable due to its high susceptibility to rot and termite infestation. Regular maintenance, including proper painting, can help protect Oregon timber from decay but is not a complete solution.

47. Mould & Mildew – Mould, commonly referred to as mildew, is not classified as a timber pest. However, it is important to note that mould and its spores can trigger health issues and allergic reactions, such as asthma and dermatitis, in sensitive individuals. This inspection did not include an evaluation for mould, and no report regarding its presence or absence is provided. If you observe mould within the property and have concerns about potential health risks, it is advisable to consult with your Local Council, State or Commonwealth Health Department, or a qualified professional such as a Mould Inspector or an Industry Hygienist for further guidance.

48. No Guarantee – Please be aware that this report does not guarantee that the property is free from termites. While the inspection aims to identify visible signs of termite activity and potential risks, it cannot account for all possible hidden or undetectable termite infestations. Termites may be present in areas not accessible or visible during the inspection, and their activity can occur between inspections. For comprehensive protection and peace of mind, it is advisable to engage a licensed pest control specialist for ongoing monitoring and installation of a termite management plan to handle any potential termite issues.

49. Subterranean Termites – Subterranean termites pose a significant threat to properties, causing extensive economic damage to timber structures in Australia. Statistics from State Forests indicate that one in four homes will experience a termite infestation at some point. These termites are among the most destructive timber pests globally.

Termites often establish large underground colonies with hundreds of thousands of insects. When such a colony develops near your home, it can take advantage of the natural shelter and food resources your property offers. A single termite colony can extend its gallery system over an area of up to one hectare, with individual galleries reaching lengths of 50 meters or more to access your home. Concrete slabs are not an effective deterrent, as termites can infiltrate through cracks in the slab or along its edges. Once they make contact with timber, they may hollow out the wood, leaving only a thin outer layer intact. If left unchecked, these destructive pests can inflict severe damage, potentially costing thousands of dollars in repairs and treatment.

50. Trees – Trees located close to a house can potentially impact the performance of the building’s footings due to fluctuating moisture levels in the ground. It is advisable to have all trees and stumps on the property with a diameter greater than 100 mm visually inspected for signs of termite activity up to a height of 2 meters, where access allows. However, finding termite nests in trees can be challenging and is often not feasible because these nests are typically underground and evidence is usually well-hidden. Therefore, we strongly recommend arranging for trees to be test-drilled to check for termite nests.

Acknowledgements

51. This Report does not include recommendations or advice about matters outside the scope of the requested inspection.

52. If the Client has any queries or concerns about the purpose, scope, or acceptance criteria of this Report, these should be discussed with the Inspector before the inspection. This will provide the Client with sufficient time to seek legal counsel if desired.

53. The Client acknowledges their responsibility to take all reasonable steps to implement the recommendations and advice provided by the Inspector in the Report as a matter of urgency unless otherwise specified. Failure to act promptly may exacerbate existing defects over time.

54. The Client acknowledges that any additional discussions with the Inspector regarding this Report must take place within 14 days of its publication. Please be aware that any concerns addressed after the Report has been issued will not be included in the Report, and as a result, the Report may not reflect all advice or information related to the building or site provided by the Inspector.

55. The Client acknowledges that a visual-only inspection limits the Inspector’s ability to conduct a thorough examination of the building or site. It is strongly recommended that an extended inspection, including additional testing, be performed for a more comprehensive assessment.

56. The Client acknowledges that in accordance with the AS4349.1 & AS4349.3 Australian standards for building inspections, this Report does not warrant or give insurance to the building or site for developing issues following the date of inspection.

57. The Client acknowledges their reports will be supplied as an electronic copy. Their report will very likely have some limitations caused by the restrictions of an inspection. These restrictions include any area that is subject to safety considerations. The Inspectors reserve the right to ensure their safety at all times.

58. The Client acknowledges that the Inspector may not report on asbestos, non-visual problems, or issues that are out of the Inspector’s area of expertise. If a defect is not visible at the time of inspection, it cannot be reported on. This does not mean there are no defects.

59. The Client acknowledges that while the Inspector may be able to identify problems that are non-visual through the use of various tools and expertise, they cannot make assessments on the extent of hidden damage. This would require an invasive inspection by a certified tradesman.

60. The Client acknowledges that any recommendations to other Companies or Trades are supplied only as suggestions and that The Best Inspector Pty Ltd is not liable for any work they may undertake for the Client.

61. The Client acknowledges that neither The Best Inspector Pty Ltd nor its agent, the Inspector, shall be held liable for the content or findings of this Report. The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless The Best Inspector Pty Ltd and its agent, the Inspector, from any claims, awards, costs, legal fees, expenses, and other losses or damages, whether direct or indirect, arising from or related to the Report.

62. The Client acknowledges that The Best Inspector Pty Ltd may reproduce the content within this Report for any commercial purpose, including the sale of the Report in whole or in part to third parties, provided personal details or information of the Client contained therein are excluded.

63. The Client acknowledges that the contents of the Report are subject to the Scope of the Report, Inspection Limitations, Exclusions, and Acceptance Criteria.

64. The client agrees that they are solely responsible for their financial decisions and acknowledges that this document should not be solely relied upon in making any decisions. The client confirms that they have, or will, conduct their own due diligence prior to purchase. This includes but is not limited to, obtaining further inspections, conducting council and compliance checks, following recommendations and seeking advice from alternate trade professionals.

65. The Client Acknowledges payment for an inspection is due on or before the date of the inspection.

General Info

66. Please be advised that The Best Inspector Pty Ltd does not guarantee that any inspector will possess a particular type of license. Given the extensive range of specializations within the building and construction industry, it is unlikely to find an inspector with experience in every area of expertise. For specific concerns or requirements related to particular fields, we recommend consulting a licensed professional in the relevant area.

In New South Wales, building inspectors are not required to be licensed builders or hold specific qualifications, and they are not legally obligated to have insurance. Inspectors often come from diverse trade backgrounds and may have only on-the-job training rather than formal education, leading to variations in their level of expertise.

67. Advice – All advice provided in this report should be regarded as general in nature. Should any defects or findings be identified, we strongly recommend seeking further investigation from a qualified professional who specializes in the relevant area.

Disclaimer and Recommendations

68. Price Estimate Disclaimer – Price estimates are not covered by Australian standards and if they are included in the report they should be considered as a rough guide only. These estimates represent the inspector’s opinion or educated guess and are not guaranteed. The Best Inspector Pty Ltd does not promise that repairs will fall within the provided price range, as costs can vary based on the specifics of each case and are subject to assessment by the individual or company performing the repair. Where possible, prices have been cross-referenced with Rawlinson’s Price Book Guide; however, this does not guarantee accuracy or applicability.

69. Extended Inspection Recommendation -The client acknowledges that, in order to maintain competitive pricing, inspections conducted by The Best Inspector Pty Ltd are typically completed within 1 to 2 hours and are priced accordingly. It is the inspector’s professional opinion that many inspections would benefit from an extended evaluation. Such extended inspections can be arranged with prior notice and will incur additional costs. If a more comprehensive assessment is desired, please contact us to discuss and arrange the necessary arrangements before the scheduled inspection.

70. Invasive Inspection Recommendation – This report is based on a visual inspection, which inherently has its limitations. For a more thorough examination, we offer an invasive physical inspection upon request. This detailed inspection requires the property owner’s written permission and involves moving or lifting insulation, stored items, furniture, and foliage. We will physically engage with suspected areas by touching, tapping, testing, or forcefully
examining accessible timbers. To access necessary areas, we may cut access holes and traps.
This type of inspection requires several days’ notice and will take more time than a visual inspection. It will cause disruption in occupied properties, and some permanent markings are highly likely. The property owner must provide written consent, and the client agrees that The Best Inspector Pty Ltd will not be responsible for any damage incurred during the inspection. For pricing information, please contact us.

71. Past Building Work – This report does not address the legal or regulatory compliance of past building work or home improvements. It is crucial to engage a solicitor to ensure that all previous modifications or improvements to the property have received the necessary approvals and meet local building regulations. The inspector cannot verify the legality or compliance of past works, and the responsibility for confirming and addressing any issues related to approvals rests with the property owner/prospective buyer.

72. Additional Inspections – The Client understands that additional inspections are necessary for a thorough evaluation of the property. Specifically, the Client agrees to seek further inspections from qualified professionals for electrical systems, plumbing and drainage, smoke alarms, telecommunications, gas services, hot water systems and pest control. These additional inspections are crucial for ensuring the safety and proper functioning of these systems beyond the scope of the initial report.

Dispute Resolution

73. Resolution Efforts – The Client agrees that, in the event of a dispute, every reasonable effort will be made to resolve the issue directly with the Inspector. If these efforts are unsatisfactory and the dispute remains unresolved, the Client may email the company to initiate the dispute resolution process.

74. Limitation Period – The Client must contact The Best Inspector Pty Ltd via email within 28 days of the inspection to outline any concerns. The Client agrees that concerns raised after this period will exempt the company from addressing the matter.

75. Re-Inspection and Response – The Client agrees to allow the Inspector or their authorized agents to re-attend the property to investigate the concern and will provide unrestricted access for this purpose. After the investigation, the Client will receive an emailed response addressing the dispute.

76. Mediation and Legal Costs – If the dispute cannot be resolved, independent private mediation may be required at the shared expense of the Client and The Best Inspector Pty Ltd. Should mediation fail or not be pursued, and the matter escalates to arbitration or court, the Client acknowledges and agrees to be responsible for all legal costs, awards, and judgments incurred by The Best Inspector Pty Ltd or its agent, The Inspector.

77. Liability and Compensation – The Client agrees to release The Best Inspector Pty Ltd and its agent, The Inspector, from financial liability, regardless of the cause. The Best Inspector Pty Ltd and its agent disclaim all liability to the fullest extent permitted by law for any defects, negligence, errors, or omissions contained within this report. If compensation is warranted, it will be limited to a full refund of the inspection fee.

Final Note

78. Thank you – for choosing Best Inspector Pty Ltd. We’re delighted to have had the opportunity to work with you. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out. We look forward to serving you again in the future

Sincerely,

THE BEST INSPECTOR PTY LTD
ACN 663001269