What a pre-purchase inspection does not cover
The boundaries are what make the rest reliable.
In short: AS 4349.1 is a visual inspection, and its exclusions each exist for a reason.
The standard in a line
Looking, without dismantling, at whatever can be readily reached, and reporting significant items, conditions that could lead to structural damage, and safety hazards.
Services stay off
Electrical is not energised, plumbing is not pressure tested, appliances and motors are not run.
Nothing is opened
No lining removed, no ground excavated, no concealed framing or damp proof course exposed.
Separate scopes
Timber pests sit under AS 4349.3. Asbestos and mould testing are specialist services outside both.
Why the limits help
An inspection that is clear about its boundaries can be relied on inside them. Reach beyond the scope and the whole report becomes vulnerable when tested.
Written by the Owner Inspections team from inspections carried out in Austral. Licensed building practitioners, NSW Fair Trading licence 366177C.
