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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Building & Pest Inspections by ABPOM

General Questions

🏡 1. What is a building and pest inspection?

A building and pest inspection is a professional assessment of a property’s condition before purchase. It helps identify structural issues, timber pest infestations, and safety concerns, ensuring buyers make informed decisions.

🔍 2. Why should I get a building and pest inspection before buying a home?

A building and pest inspection protects buyers from unexpected repair costs and hidden defects. It provides a detailed report on potential risks, helping you:
✅ Avoid costly surprises after purchase
✅ Negotiate a better price based on findings
✅ Ensure the property is safe and structurally sound

🛠️ 3. What does ABPOM’s building and pest inspection cover?

Our comprehensive reports include:

• ✅ Structural integrity assessment – Walls, foundations, floors, and ceilings
• ✅ Roof inspection – Checking for leaks, missing tiles, and deterioration
• ✅ Timber pest inspection – Detecting termites, borers, and fungal decay
• ✅ Drainage and moisture detection – Identifying water damage and mold risks
• ✅ Compliance with Australian building standards – Ensuring legal safety requirements are met

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Inspection Process & Booking

⏳ 4. How long does a building and pest inspection take?

The duration depends on the size and complexity of the property:
📌 Standard homes: 1 to 2 hours
📌 Larger properties: Up to 4 hours
📌 Same-day reports: Receive your findings with a same day phone call from our inspectors

📅 5. When should I book my inspection?

It’s best to schedule an inspection before signing the contract or during the cooling-off period. Many buyers book an inspection immediately after making an offer to ensure they’re fully informed.

✔ Same-day inspections available – Call 1300 022 766 for urgent bookings.
✔ Flexible scheduling – Weekend and after-hours appointments available.

🏠 6. How do I book a building and pest inspection with ABPOM?

Booking is quick and easy:
📞 Call 1300 022 766
🌐 Visit www.abpom.com.au
📩 Request a free quote online

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Pricing & Negotiation

💲 7. How much does a building and pest inspection cost?

Prices vary based on property size, location, and type of inspection:
💰 Standard home inspection – $330to $1500
💰 Timber pest inspection – Often combined with building inspections for extra security
💰 Custom reports for commercial properties – Contact ABPOM for a tailored quote

🔥 8. Can an inspection help with price negotiations?

Absolutely! If major defects or risks are discovered, buyers can:
✔ Request repairs before settlement
✔ Negotiate a lower price based on findings
✔ Reconsider their purchase if the property requires excessive work

Our detailed reports provide leverage for confident negotiations.

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Timber Pest & Termite Inspections

🏡 9. What are timber pests, and why are they a concern?

Timber pests are organisms that feed on or damage wood, compromising the structural integrity of buildings. The most common timber pests include:
✅ Termites – Silent destroyers that can weaken a home’s foundation without visible signs.
✅ Wood borers – Beetles that lay eggs in timber, leading to weakened structures.
✅ Fungal decay – Rotting wood caused by excess moisture, promoting pest infestations.

Timber pests can cause severe damage, leading to costly repairs or even making a property unsafe.

🔍 10. How can termites damage a home?

Termites are one of the most destructive timber pests. They:
✔ Eat through wooden beams, walls, and foundations
✔ Cause structural instability in floors and ceilings
✔ Remain hidden in walls and under flooring, making detection difficult
✔ Spread quickly in damp environments

A termite infestation can cost thousands in repairs if left untreated. Early detection through inspections is key to preventing damage.

🛠️ 11. How do I know if my home has termites?

Common signs of a termite infestation include:
🟡 Hollow-sounding timber – Knock on wooden surfaces; a weak or empty sound indicates termites.
🟡 Mud tunnels on walls or foundations – Termites build protective tubes for movement.
🟡 Sagging floors or ceilings – Indicating structural weakening.
🟡 Discarded wings near windows or doors – A sign of termite swarming.

If you notice these signs, a professional inspection is necessary to assess the extent of the damage.

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Treatment & Prevention

💲 12. How much does a timber pest inspection cost?

Costs vary based on property size and location:
💰 Standalone timber pest inspection – $250 to $600
💰 Combined building & pest inspection – $500 to $1,000 for a full property report

Investing in early detection saves homeowners thousands in future repairs.

🔥 13. What happens if termites are found during the inspection?

If termites are active, ABPOM will:
✔ Provide a detailed report on the infestation.
✔ Offer treatment recommendations (chemical barriers, bait stations).
✔ Suggest preventative measures to protect the property.
✔ Advise whether repairs are needed based on structural damage.

Acting quickly can prevent further destruction and expensive repairs.

🛡️ 14. How can I prevent termite infestations?

To minimize termite risk, follow these preventative steps:
✅ Reduce moisture – Fix leaks, maintain drainage, and use dehumidifiers.
✅ Store timber away from home – Avoid stacking firewood near the house.
✅ Seal cracks & entry points – Close gaps in foundations and walls.
✅ Schedule regular inspections – Annual pest checks catch infestations early.
✅ Consider termite barriers – Chemical or physical barriers deter termite entry.

Routine pest management saves homeowners thousands and protects their investment.

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