Preparing your home for Queensland winter

As the Sunshine State settles into colder days and darker nights, you may be looking for new ways to make your home warmer, cosier and more weather-resistant.

Whether you are a home-owner or in the market to buy or sell, preparing your home for winter can save time and expense, pre-empting and preventing issues before they arise. The following tips will help you create a safer, warmer, and more inviting home this winter.

Designing for warmth

Flooring

The first thing to consider when cosying up your home and transforming it into an inviting retreat from the chill is your flooring. Concrete, hardwood or tiling can be quite cold underfoot and provides poor insulation. If underfloor heating is not an option, rugs will be your new best friend in transforming the space. Stunning wool, and gorgeous Berber, shag and natural fibre rugs do wonders in adding a layer of beauty while protecting the floor and providing a snug and homely feel.

Shades and textiles  

Rich and warm tones such as dark chocolate, blush pink, terracotta and olive greens can be used to redecorate your home this winter to create a delicious and inviting feel. Add depth with the plush softness of cushions and throws, and create elegant comfort with luxurious textiles of velvet, wool and faux fur.

Bedding  

Your bedroom is your ultimate winter retreat; warm shades and soft textiles can truly make it an inviting haven. Wool and feather quilts provide maximum warmth, while microfibre and cotton quilts are lighter and may be sufficient, depending on your unique circumstances and preferences.

Windows  

Windows brighten a space with natural light, but without the right coverings, they can also let in the frosty nights. To maintain a cosy ambience, insulated curtains or compact roller blinds protect against the chill and help reduce your heating bill.

Prevention is better than cure ~ simple jobs to do

Pipes and drains  

The last thing you need during winter downpours are overflowing, sagging or blocked drains. Make sure you clear your pipes and drains to prevent potential damage to your home.

Heating system  

Before the chill sets in, ensure your heating system is appropriate for the space and working efficiently. Gas heaters are preferable for larger, more open spaces, while electric heaters are usually sufficient for smaller rooms. Not only can choosing the correct heater for your space save money, it is also essential for providing optimal warmth and ensuring your home’s safety and family’s health. You can also check the unit’s overall performance and clean the filter. This not only makes life easier, but it also gives you peace of mind.

Ducted heating system  

Ducted heating is a modern-day miracle, but over time a build-up of dust on the fan can become hazardous. Extended use during winter can cause additional pressure on gas burners and carbon monoxide testing units, both of which are critical for the proper running and maintenance of your system. Checking for this can ensure that safe and optimal performance is maintained. 

Gas log fire  

The elegance and warmth a gas log fire adds to your home is timeless. It is a gorgeous feature to emphasise if you are planning to sell, so be sure to declutter the space around it and style the room to show off it’s natural beauty.

This winter, keep the heat in by restyling your sanctuary with warming tones, lush rugs and the right heater for your space.

If are planning to buy or sell this winter, we provide fast, high-quality Building and Pest Inspections that you can trust. Give our professional and friendly team a call today on 3369 5231.

Why you should consider additional Pre-Purchase Plumbing and Electrical Inspections

If you’re looking to purchase a new home or perhaps an investment property, you would have considered a Building and Pest Inspection. When looking at an older property or apartment blocks, it may be worthwhile considering a more in-depth inspection of the Plumbing and Electrics of the property, to give you additional peace of mind?

Peace of mind as a landlord

The additional Plumbing and Electrical inspections can prevent financial heartache later when major plumbing and electrical problems are found once you or your tenants have moved in. By conducting a pre-purchase preventive maintenance check, you will ensure your investment will function effectively by increasing in value during every growth cycle and should you rent it out, attracting good quality and happy tenants.

Peace of mind with older properties

Particularly with older homes such as Queenslanders, we see equipment and wiring breaking down gradually, hidden problems such as tree roots in drainage systems and of course, the Plumbing and Electrical Australian Standards changing, meaning upgrades are required. 

RTL Trades Plumbing and Electrical Inspections

RTL Trades Pre Purchase Property Electrical and Plumbing Inspections are aimed at investors and first home buyers and work very much like a builder’s report. 

If something has been flagged by the Building and Pest Inspector, RTL Trades have a team of experienced and licenced Plumbers and Electricians with the correct equipment. Providing a non-bias and in-depth inspection, a report is provided which details the issues and potential subsequent quote/s to repair any issues found. Which could allow you to renegotiate with the seller before you sign the contract. 

What’s involved in the additional Plumbing and Electrical inspections?

A thorough inspection of the Electrics and Plumbing, Inspections are conducted by qualified, experienced and licenced professionals, providing you with a detailed report of any immediate or future costs to rectify any issues: 

• Identify and advise on any non-compliant and/or dangerous DIY Electrical or Plumbing

• Check incoming mains, main switchboard and safety switches

• Ensure compliance is met with Plumbing and Electrical Australian Standards

• Advise on any power saving or water-saving ideas

• Advise of the age and life expectancy on the current hot water unit

• Electrical checks on faulty switches and wiring to ensure there are no faults. 

• Evaluate whether or not there is sufficient electrical service

• Check for any outdated Electrical or Plumbing fixtures. 

• Provide on the spot advice and timely quotes for rectification. 

In conclusion

For the safety of you and your family or the safety and reassurance of your tenant, it’s clear to see why spending a little extra on Pre-Purchase Plumbing and Electrical Inspections is worthwhile. It may save you much more in the future, including your lives. 

The Electrical Safety Office of Queensland is encouraging Pre-Purchase Electrical Inspections to assist buyers to identify if a property is safe and complies with all electrical legislation. “We are promoting these inspections to assist buyers in avoiding costly and unsafe issues, to act as a deterrent to dangerous and illegal DIY work, and to encourage homeowners to commit to better maintenance practices.”

About the Author - RTL Trades

RTL Trades, established originally as ‘RTL Plumbing’ over 70 years ago in 1948, have an experienced and professional team of 40+ professional and licensed Plumbers, Gasfitters, Electricians, Handymen and Roofers. Proudly providing our services across South East Queensland. 

Contact: www.rtltrades.com.au  / 1300 000 (RTL) 785 /  sales@rtltrades.com.au 

Preparing Your House for Market

Were you, like many Queenslanders out there, planning on putting your house on the market this year? Why not take this opportunity of being stuck at home, to make updates to your house and make it more appealing to buyers?

Not only will this give you a purpose, but it will boost your mood, and help make Netflix and chill days guilt-free. Just be careful to keep the quality high if you do decide to DIY.

Here are 5 areas to consider when preparing your house for the market.

1. Declutter, Declutter, Declutter

The first step in preparing your house for market should always be to declutter. Once you start, you will realise how much ‘stuff’ you have and how much you do not need. It’s not only a great opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need but also to do a preliminary pack and tidy your cupboards. Remember that buyers will be opening doors and looking in cupboards, so make the cupboards worth a look!  A clean and decluttered house will make it appear larger than it is.

2. Spring Clean

Before you have any potential buyers through your house, you will need to give your place a heavy-duty spring clean. Pay attention to mould spots in the wet areas, dirty vents, cobwebs, dusty shelves. Clean your windows inside and out. Also, consider that buyers will be opening cupboards so be sure to clean under the sinks and in storage cupboards. You want the buyers to think that the property has been well maintained and cared for.

3. Cosmetic and Maintenance Repairs

The smallest repairs can make all the difference. Consider fixing chipped tiles, loose door handles, cracked or discoloured power points, carpet stains, scuffed paintwork, dripping taps, and resealing wet areas. All of these things may be minor to you but to a buyer, may highlight the amount of work they will have to put into the house. Or worse still, could lower the price they are prepared to pay.

4. Paint is always a good idea!

A fresh coat of paint will instantly give the house or area a lift. It may be the whole house, the front door, or just some touch-ups. Look around the house and see what needs to be freshened up. It is amazing how much a little paint can improve the house appearance. It is a good chance to also make any feature walls a more neutral colour. You may love that hot pink wall but a more neutral colour pallet will appeal to more buyers.

5. Gardening

Buyers will make their first impressions at the front of your home. Take the time to make sure the lawn is mowed, the hedges are tidy and the weeds under control. Maybe you could even consider planting some flowers to help lift the garden and add a little colour. Similarly, with outdoor living spaces. Make sure the area is inviting so that potential buyers can imagine themselves living there.

To book your Pre-Sale Building & Pest Inspection, please call our team on 07 3369 5231.

The Building and Pest Inspection Process

The Building & Pest Inspection process is very simple. Most commonly Building & Pest Inspections are carried out because you are either, preparing to sell your property or you have a contract on a property that is subject to the Building & Pest Inspection. Whichever your situation, there is often a lot going on for you during this time. We like to help take the pressure off where we can.

Below is a quick guide to our process

1. Find Your Inspector

There are several factors to consider when you are selecting a Building and Pest Inspector. Most importantly, you should ensure that the Inspector is Licensed and Insured.

At OneHome, our Inspector, Tom is fully licensed and Insured. He has over 16 years’ experience in the industry and is very personable.  

2. Book Your Inspection

Our friendly team in the office will liaise with the agent to organise a suitable inspection time. They will then send through a confirmation email with all the relevant information for your reference. 

3. The Inspection

All our Inspections are carried out to the Australian Standard and include the use of the latest Thermal Imaging Technology. A typical Building & Pest Inspection will take approximately 90 minutes. We do encourage you to attend the Inspection. Once Tom has finished the inspection, he will be able to talk you through any findings or answer any questions.

4. Same-Day Reporting

Following your Inspection, Tom will have your Building & Pest Inspection Report through to you via email on the same day as the inspection. Once you have received your report, feel free to call Tom with any questions regarding the findings and/or recommendations. 

If you would like to book your stress-free Building & Pest Inspection, please call our team on 07 3369 5231.

Tools of the Trade

Inspectors use many types of equipment because their use allows us to identify unacceptable conditions that cannot be identified visually. Some types of equipment are used because they make the inspections easier or faster for the inspector. Here are some examples of the equipment we commonly use

Torch

Powerful flashlights are good for seeing in dark areas where access is difficult or impossible but the strong reflection can make taking photos difficult.

Thermal imaging cameras

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to a building's structural integrity. All too often, it's not detected until it can be seen with the naked eye. By that time, extreme amounts of damage have probably been done. Thermal Imaging Technology can detect even the smallest amounts of moisture in a building. This state-of-the-art technology allows our inspector to locate the signs of moisture before they cause serious problems.

Moisture meters

A moisture meter can detect high levels of moisture in internal wall cavities and exposed timbers. High moisture areas in a dwelling may attract or contain termite activity. High moisture readings are often located in or adjacent to bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.

When high moisture readings have been detected, a recommendation will be made to have the area assessed further for termite activity. A moisture meter will also detect moisture from leaking pipes or rising damp. All high moisture readings should be investigated to determine the cause.

Tapping Devices

A sound tapping device is a thin fiber glass rod with a plastic ball at the end of it. This is used to tap walls, timber frames or skirting boards, to check for hollowness, which could indicate the presence of a termite infestation.

Ladder

Used to gain access to roofs and roof voids, we use an Bailey Retractable ladder which can be maneuvered easily inside homes and adjusted inside small spaces or reach high areas.

Tape Measure

A tape measure is used to check handrail or step dimensions etc. for safety purposes.

Pool Safety Inspection

Pool barriers help save lives by preventing young children from accessing swimming pools. Did you know that drowning is one of the leading causes of death in Queensland for children under the age of five years old? New Queensland pool safety laws introduced in 2009 aim to reduce the incidences of drowning and serious immersion injuries of young children in swimming pools and apply to both new and existing pools, spas and some portable pools.

If you own a pool, are buying a property with an existing pool or are planning on building a pool there are 3 pool safety basics to know:

• All pools in Queensland must be registered with the QBCC

• Your pool barrier must comply with the law

• Get a pool safety certificate - This is a requirement only when properties are sold or leased.

The pool safety standard covers such things as the height and strength of barriers, mandatory non-climbable zones, gates and their latching requirements and preventing direct access from a building into a pool area. To assist in finding out if your pool meets the current pool safety standard, visit the QBCC Pool Safety Website (https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/home-building-owners/pool-safety/does-your-pool-comply) . There are now penalties enforced for pools not meeting the safety standard, so it’s best to be on the front foot.

The Inspection Process

Once the Pool Safety Inspection has been completed, the pool will be found to be Compliant or Non-Compliant.

If the pool is deemed fully compliant, our inspector (Tom) will issue the relevant Pool Safety Certificate.

If your pool is not deemed compliant, then the owner will be issued with a Non-conformity Notice (Form 26), as well as a report detailing all the items needing correction and will have 90 days to address all the items. Once all issues have been rectified, we will be able to re-inspect the pool so a Pool Safety Certificate can be issued. 

Can I sell my property if my pool doesn't have a pool safety certificate?

Yes, you are still able to sell your property.

Seller's responsibility
Complete the Form 36 - Notice of no pool safety certificate and provide a copy to the buyer and QBCC.   If you own a property with a shared pool, you will also need to provide a copy of the form to the owner of the pool (usually a body corporate).

Buyer's responsibility
Obtain a certificate within 90 days after settlement.

If you would like to book your Pool Safety Inspection, call us on 07 3369 5231 or email hello@onehomeinspections.com.au.

The Damaging Pest

Termites nesting in the wall

Extensive termite damage to stairs and balustrades

Pest invasion is becoming a serious problem in Australia and while a lot of pests are annoying but ultimately harmless to your home, there are some pests which cause damage, whether that be to your home, your possessions or even yourself.

At OneHome, our Pest Inspections identify the most destructive pest; termites (white ants), borers and wood decay fungi (rot). But what are they and how can you eliminate the problem in your home?

Termites

1 in 4 Australian homes will have termites in their lifetime! They eat wood, and most homes (especially Queensland homes) have a lot of wood in them. They cause a lot of damage, and the damage sometimes isn’t covered by home insurance.

Termites are Australia’s most destructive pests causing extensive damage to the structure of a building which can go undetected for years if not monitored through routine inspections.

How to prevent them: Unfortunately there aren’t reliable natural ways to prevent termites. The only reliable way to prevent termites  is to have a termite management system put in place which protects the home.

Borer

There are several types of timber borers in Australia, some serious and some not, so it is important to identify them if you think you have a problem.

The larvae of borer beetles, known as woodworm in many parts of the world, eat labyrinths through the interior of wood for 2-4 years, before moving to the surface, pupating and emerging as the adult beetle. Over time affected wood will weaken and exit holes allow water penetration. The extra moisture in the wood will encourage more attacks by borer and may promote wood rot.

There are multiple signs that can tell if wood borers have infested timber or wooden products. Scroll down or click on the links below to see the details:

• Fresh exit holes in timber

• Bore dust or frass

• Tunnels in wood

• Weak and damaged floor boards

• Crumbling wood

• Live beetles

• Dead beetles

• Wood borer eggs

• Wood borer larvae

• Sound

Fungal Decay

Wood Decay Fungi is often not considered a serious pest of timber, but it can become such a severe problem that structural integrity is affected.

The type of fungi encountered by Building and Pest Inspectors usually reside in poorly ventilated sub-floors, below wet areas of the home, exterior timbers and in areas that retain water in the soil. The durability and type of timbers are factors along with the temperature and environment.

If you are concerned about any of the above Pests in your home, please call us and book an Inspection on 07 3369 5231. 

Understanding the Building & Pest Inspection

When buying a property it is always a good idea to invest in a Building and Pest Inspection. This will provide you with all the information you need to be able to make an informed decision as to current or potential issues with the home.

Building and Pest Inspections are in fact two separate reports. At OneHome, our Inspector carries out both inspections simultaneously, meaning you only have to organise one inspection to obtain all the information you require.

All Building Inspections are carried out in accordance with The Australia Standards under AS4349.1-2007. The purpose of the inspection is to identify major defects, the incidence of minor defects and safety hazards associated with the property at the time of the inspection. The Pest Inspections are conducted in accordance with The Australian Standards under AS4349.3-2010 Inspection of Buildings Part 3: Timber Pest Inspections.  The purpose of the Pest Inspections are to provide advice about the condition of the property concerning timber pest activity.

But what does this mean?

Building Inspections are a visual inspection of the property to identify any issues or hazards regarding the property. The report highlights any major defects, includes photographs of these defects and provides advice on improvements required to bring the house up to the Australian Standard. Both the inspection and report compare the inspected building with a building constructed to the generally accepted practice at the time and one which has been maintained so that there has been no significant loss of strength and permanence.

Timber Pest Inspections identify the discovery, or non discovery, of infestation and/or damage caused by termites (white ants), borers and wood decay fungi (rot). Finally, our Inspector will provide an opinion on the degree of risk of possible termite infestation and a recommendation for future management.

To book your Building and Pest Inspection, please call us on 3369 5231.

What is a Moisture Metre and why is it important?

A moisture meter gives a reading of the approximate moisture content of wood. High moisture readings can be caused by any one of the following: poor ventilation, ineffective drainage, leaking pipes, leaking roofs, defective flashings or by concealed termite activity.

Wet spaces in your home are more vulnerable to water damage. Some of the common problems detected using a Moisture Metre include:

• Damage to wall sheeting and the flooring potentially caused by absent/poor waterproofing.

• Damage to cabinets and floors, caused by leaking taps, pipes, toilets and the overall plumbing

• Damage to the insides of cupboards, as was the skirting along walls, due to overflows from dishwashers, sinks as well as leaks arising from poor plumbing.

In addition, a Moisture Metre will help identify if there are any roof leaks; ensuring your home is watertight. Roofing can develop different types of problems such as: 

• Corrosion and holes in metal roofs – this is caused either due to deterioration or rusting.

• Loose or cracked roofing tiles

• Missing or cracked capping

• Lack of flashings

• Deterioration in flashings

• Damaged and corroded gutters

• Damaged and corroded downpipes

These problems can result in leakages in the roof spaces, insulation as well as the ceilings of your home. Poorly-installed and sealed skylights, air conditioners and vents often leak, allowing the rainwater to infiltrate the roof cavity.

The areas of high moisture should be investigated by way of an invasive inspection. If high moisture is reported during a Building and Pest Inspection, then you should have a building expert investigate the moisture and its cause and determine the full extent of the damage and the estimated costs of repairs. Our Inspector will provide recommendations should this occur.

If you are concerned about moisture issues in your home, call us today to book your inspection on 3369 5231.

Decks

If your home has a balcony, veranda or deck, regardless of whether it is made of timber, concrete or metal, do yourself a favour and organise a regular deck inspection. It’s awful to think about it, but checking the stability and integrity of your deck may just save a life!

A number of properties across Brisbane were built before 1946 and are particularly vulnerable to deterioration. However, structural problems can occur on decks built at any time.

Lack of maintenance is a primary cause of deck failure, however there are a number of other causes including:

• corrosion of metalwork and associated fittings and fixings in older decks

• lack of appropriate treatment to decking material, timber or steel

• use of timber that is unsuitable for exterior use

• use of untreated timber

• lack of bracing

• termite attack

• rotting timber

• water exposure

• overloading of decking areas (e.g. too many people on the deck)

• poor construction techniques used in owner/builder constructed decks

Our Australian climate is very harsh and even the most durable construction materials will eventually degrade. The defects might not be visually obvious to you – so book your inspection with us today.

Subfloors

A sub-floor is the foundation, the rest of the property is built on. On wood-frame floors, the subflooring provides a continuous structural surface over the floor joists. In basements and in homes with slab-on-grade foundations, the subfloor may simply be a concrete slab.

There’s a wealth of information down there. For Building and or Pest Inspectors, the subfloor is often where we discover the true state of a home. An inspection of the sub-floor can reveal any moisture related problems such as leaking wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens, laundries), site drainage issues, lack of adequate structural support or subsiding piers/footings as well as evidence of termite entry, wood rot and mortar decay. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundries that look fine within the house can reveal a totally different story in the subfloor area.

A well-maintained sub-floor space will generally have less defects and their nature will most likely be minor. Finding these minor problems before they escalate will minimise headaches and expense.

Performing routine inspections is one thing you can do help in maintaining your property and deal with any issues proactively.

Contact us today to discuss getting your subfloor inspected.

Subfloor - water damaged flooring from gradual bathroom leak.

Subfloor - rust/corrosion to steal foundation piers.