What a pre-purchase inspection does not cover
The exclusions are the reason the inclusions are reliable.
In short: AS 4349.1 is a visual inspection. Everything it excludes, it excludes for a reason worth understanding.
The standard in one line
A visual inspection of readily accessible areas, reporting significant items, conditions conducive to structural damage and safety hazards.
Services are not tested
Electrical is not energised, plumbing is not pressure tested, appliances and heating are not run and garage door motors are not operated.
Nothing is opened
No lining is removed, no ground is excavated, no concealed framing or damp proof course is exposed.
Separate scopes
Timber pests sit under AS 4349.3, and asbestos and mould testing are specialist services outside both.
Why this helps you
A report that is clear about its boundaries is a report you can rely on inside them. Overreach is what makes an inspection worthless in a dispute.
Written by the Owner Inspections team from inspections carried out in Pakenham East. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
