Pests can damage property and compromise the health and safety of staff and customers. So, checking for them at regular intervals is crucial to prevent infestations.
Look for roaches and rodents in storage bins, behind appliances (they like the warmth and moisture) and utility lines. Seal gaps with steel wool and caulk.
Check for Pests
Getting a pest inspection is like having your building undergo a health check-up. It identifies any potential issues that could be lurking, allowing you to fix them before they become more significant problems. For more information about the pest and building inspections checklist, click here.
The main thing that a pest inspector will look for is evidence of bugs and rodents. It includes gnawing marks on furniture and greasy rub marks on surfaces. They will also look for habitation signs, such as droppings and nests.
They will also look for cracks around pipes, windows and doors and gaps in insulation. They will also check areas where food is stored, such as the pantry and kitchen cabinets. They will also look in drawers and behind appliances, such as the warming draw under the oven.
A digital checklist makes it easier to take photos during inspections, which can be added to reports. It also speeds up the completion of assessments and prevents the loss of paper reports.
Check for Water Damage
Water damage is another issue that can lead to major structural problems. A regular building inspection can help identify the signs and prevent ongoing deterioration and costly repairs.
During the building and pest inspection, inspectors will look for any signs of water damage, such as leaky faucets, ceiling stains, or shower mould. They will also check for the presence of termites and other wood-destroying pests. Inspectors will examine the entire property, including the roof space, to check for signs of infestation and assess the trusses’ integrity.
Check for Mold
Most home inspectors will mention a potential problem with mould or water damage if they see it, but most don’t go out of their way to check for it. That’s a shame because mould and water damage are often hidden from sight, like behind walls, underneath floorboards, or in dark crawl spaces.
A professional mould inspection will include a visual inspection, testing, and interpretation of the results. The inspection will look for water damage or mould signs, such as stains, musty odours, and other telltale indications. They will also use specialized tools, such as a moisture meter, to locate areas of excess moisture that may not be visible to the naked eye.
A professional mould test will also analyze air samples. Unfortunately, DIY kits don’t offer this level of accuracy. Moreover, they often don’t provide enough information about the type of mould present or its intensity. That is why hiring a professional mould inspector is always the best option. For more information about the pest and building inspections checklist, click here.
Check for Damage
Whether selling your home or buying one, a building and pest inspection is necessary. Not only will this help identify any structural or pest-related issues, but it can also protect you from costly repairs and future headaches.
It’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of damage throughout the property, mainly if they’re located in areas that are easily accessible and visible. Check for gnaw marks on timber, swollen ceilings or walls, and other termite or rodent activity evidence.
Building and Pest Inspections are a great way to uncover structural, plumbing, drainage, timber pest, roof damage, and more. However, some issues may not be immediately apparent and can sometimes be overlooked during an inspection. That’s why it’s so important to create a checklist and take the time to address it before a builder or pest inspector comes in.