Suggestions from Building & Timber Pest Inspectors

1. Check and clear roof & gutters and silicone joins. If not regularly cleaned timber rot and water damage may have occurred to fascia and soffits.
2. Check silicone sealants to roof flashings have not been broken down by the sun.
3. Check for cracks to roof tiles and replace or seal them. All pointing to capping tiles should be maintained in good condition to prevent any leakage and stop the likelihood of water damage to internal ceilings.
4. Check your external / internal walls, ceilings and cornices for any cracks or moisture damage. This could be due to structural movement or water leaks.
5. Adjust and lubricate sliders (doors & windows) – silicone (non-oily). Check doors for binding, latching and locking problems. Repair / replace where necessary.
6. Check sealants and grouts to all “wet areas”. Tile glues can “crystallize” in a few years if incorrectly applied. Timber rot and decay can be concealed behind showers and other wet areas.
7. Treat (or paint) all exposed timbers including tops of open decks, floor joists and tops of open pergolas. Moisture will cause timber to decay (dry & wet rot). Avoid having timber posts, stairs, cladding etc in direct contact with the ground. This will help reduce the risk of termites and timber rot.
8. Check moisture around timber and steel stumps/supports and posts – moisture causes decay and rust and can attract termites. Clear soils away from bottom of posts and seal posts from any moisture.
9. Check all surface water drains away from house – 600mm wide paving around house is recommended. Water will swell ground clays and cause movement to foundations and crack brick and block walls. Divert all downpipes to curb where possible.
10. Check trees and gardens are away from foundations of house. Keep weep holes in brickwork clear. Covered weep holes can lead to rising damp and termite infestation.
11. If you have had a termite management system installed we recommend you check if it is due for renewal or an annual pest inspection.
12. Check all fences, retaining and landscaping timbers for decay, as decaying timbers promote termite activity.
    
    · To maximize your sale price, we recommend a pre-sale building & pest inspection.