Pre purchase structural and timber inspection reports Perth, building inspection checks and costs
Do you need a pre purchase building or structural inspection report in Perth? Our team at Rotaru Building Consultants (RBC) in Perth is...
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Welcome to
Rotaru Building Consultants & Structural Engineers
We offer a complete range of home building inspection services, residential and commercial structural engineering services, certified structural drawings, pre-purchase building structural and timber pest inspection services throughout Perth and the South West of WA.
About Us
Rotaru Building Consultants (RBC) provide a complete range of building inspections, structural inspections, civil & structural engineering services to the residential and commercial building industry in Perth. We work with home owners, property investors, builders and architects on structural engineering for renovations, new homes and home improvement projects.
Our mission is to provide exceptional building inspection services in Perth, cost effective solutions together with an excellent customer experience.
We are proudly members of:
Our Engineering and Building Inspection Expertise
We specialise in innovative and cost effective structural engineering solutions for the Perth residential market. Some of our services include:
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Civil and structural engineering drawings and certified plans;
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Retrospective approvals for unauthorised structures such as retaining walls, patios and sheds
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Site Classifications in accordance with AS2870-2011 Residential Slab and Footings
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Pre purchase building inspections all Perth suburbs
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Independent, professional building inspection reports
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Structural inspection - residential and commercial structures *
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Retaining wall structural engineering design and inspection
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Concrete reinforced swimming pool structural engineering design
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Ancillary Structures (screen walls, patios, carports, gazebos, shade sails)
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Residential and commercial structural engineering certifications
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Compaction test and certificate
Buying a new home or investment property in Perth? Our team can assist with pre purchase building inspections and a range or engineering related services in Perth. Our considerable expertise regarding the structural engineering of structures such as retaining walls, sheds and patios as well as our skills in failure analysis ensures these structures are thoroughly assessed during our pre-purchase structural inspections as well.
Need a pre purchase building inspector in Perth? Our team at Rotaru Building Consultants in Perth is qualified and experienced to help with pre purchase building inspections, roof inspections, retaining wall inspections, structural reports, structural engineering, renovation advice and structural certifications.
For any questions about a pre purchase building and timber pest inspection in Perth, get in touch with us to discuss your requirements and to obtain a free quote today.
Structural inspection Perth
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The interior walls of the building;
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The roof space and frame;
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The exterior walls of the building;
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Piers, columns, posts;
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Lintels;
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The sub-floor space and support (where applicable);
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The roof exterior.
Building inspection Perth
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The interior walls of the building;
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The roof space and frame;
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The exterior walls of the building;
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Piers, columns, posts;
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Lintels;
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The sub-floor space and support (where applicable);
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The roof exterior;
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The property within 30 m of the building subject to inspection;
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Retaining walls;
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Paving grade;
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Moisture testing of the walls adjacent to the showers;
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Stairs stringer handrails/balusters treads and risers;
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Roof cover and all roof penetrations including gutter, downpipes and flashings lintels;
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Ceiling frame;
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RCD safety switches and smoke detectors;
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Insulation and sarking;
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Driveways & paths;
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Kitchen, laundry & bathroom cabinets and benchtops.
What is included in a Pre Purchase Report
Structural Inspection vs Building Inspection:
We can assist with structural inspections for new roofs, roof conversions from tiles to Colorbond roofs and provide certified structural engineering drawings for tie-downs.
Unauthorised structures? Contact Rotaru Building Consultants Perth to discuss your specific requirements and to obtain a quote for structural inspection certification.
We can assist with inspections and certified structural engineering drawings for projects in Perth for all types of retaining walls.
We can assist with timber pest inspections and provide structural engineering advice to rectify termite damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some examples of structural engineering services that you offer at Rotaru Building Consultants (RBC)?
We specialize in providing a range of building inspection services in Perth, engineering drawings, certified details for residential and commercial buildings and ancillary structures. Examples of services include building and pest inspection in Perth Area, certified engineering drawings & plans for single and double storey homes, compaction testing and certification using a Perth Sand Penetrometer, retaining wall engineering details, concrete swimming pool design, structural inspections, pre purchase building & timber pest inspections, structural and building inspections throughout the Perth. We can also provide certified engineering drawings for the following:
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Site inspection, investigation for soil and wind site classification;
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Single, double and multi-storey buildings;
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Extensions, upper storey additions, alterations and load bearing wall removals;
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Concrete suspended slabs and foundations engineering;
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Timber framing for sigle and double storey;
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Home improvement and associated structures such as patios, carports and sheds;
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Steel frame design using hot rolled or cold formed sections;
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Retaining wall engineering drawings and brick screen walls or fences.
2. Why should I choose RBC to undertake a pre purchase building inspection in Perth?
If you are looking for cost effective building inspections in Perth and engineering advice, our team has the experience and expertise to assist you. Every structural inspection and report is conducted by a professional structural engineer or registered builder with extensive experience in the Perth Residential Industry. We guarantee superior expertise and customer service when you work with RBC.
3. How long does a typical pre purchase structural inspection take?
We recommend to our Clients to opt for a pre-purchase structural inspection in conjunction with a timber pest inspection for complete peace of mind. This structural inspection takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Larger homes may require additional time on site.
4. Can you provide structural engineering advice regarding the removal of load bearing walls?
We certainly can provide advice on the removal of load bearing walls in Perth. The best approach is to undertake a structural inspection of the building to determine the options to re-distribute the load path. If you arrange a pre-purchase structural inspection or a pre-purchase building and pest inspection in the Perth Metro area, can can provide advice regarding removal of walls as part of our service for a small additional fee. Obtaining the original architectural and structural drawings will be of significant benefit and result in lower cost for producing the structural engineering documentation.
5. What is a retrospective building approval?
A Building Approval Certificate can be applied for to retrospectively approve of an unauthorised structure or work after the building is completed. This includes minor structures such as patios, sheds, fences, retaining walls, swimming pools and spas. In most cases a structural engineer is required to provide the engineering certification and a building surveyor is also required to provide the certificate of construction compliance.
6. How can RBC assist with a retrospective Council approval for my patio, shed, carport, retaining wall, brick fence or similar structure?
Generally, in order to obtain a retrospective Building Approval Certificate, the Client will need to engage a Building Surveyor to issue a Certificate of Building Compliance. This document requires certified engineering documentation that RBC can provide. We can also recommend and work with our associate Building Surveyor to speed up the submission of documentation. In most cases, a structural inspection is required to verify the structural condition of the structure. In some situations, modifications may be required subject to our site inspection in order for the structure to achieve structural sufficiency. It is important to note that a pre purchase building and pest inspection in Perth will not always identify unauthorized structures.
If the Council confirms that the unauthorised structures does not require planning approval the retrospective approval can be obtained using the following 3 steps:
Step 1 – Engage a Perth structural engineer such as Rotaru Building Consultants to undertake a structural inspection and provide structural engineering certification usually in the form of a report;
Step 2 - Engage a Registered Building Surveyor to confirm documentation and technical certificates that may be required but usually a BA18 Certificate of Construction Compliance will be applicable in most cases;
Step 3 - Submit all the above documents to the relevant Council or Shire for assessment.
In most cases if the above steps are followed, a retrospective approval for unauthorised building work and/or structures can be obtained. However, if the unauthorised building / structure does not meet the performance requirements of the Building Code of Australia or relevant Australian Standards, you may be required to remove the structure.
Our team can assist with the retrospective approval process described above. In most cases the best approach is to conduct a structural inspection on site which will enable us to provide engineering certification for the existing structure or building.
Contact Rotaru Building Consultants Perth to discuss your specific requirements and to obtain a quote for structural inspection certification.
7. What are the requirements to produce retaining wall engineering drawings or certified details?
It is recommended that specific information is obtained form your local Council. Generally, a site plan will be required showing the location of the retaining wall(s) in relation to the property boundaries and existing buildings on the property. We can assist with the architectural elevation and plan view drawings as well as the structural engineering details suitable for the building permit application. In most cases, structural engineering certification in Perth for a limestone retaining wall, panel and post retaining wall, Besser blocks or concrete masonry retaining wall, brick cavity filled retaining wall or concrete reinforced retaining walls can be provided within 48 hours. It is standard procedure for us to assess the location of the main sewer line and ascertain if the proposed retaining wall requires additional measures in accordance with the Water Corporation Protection of Assets requirements.
8. How can I verify that the structural engineer is qualified and registered?
The National Engineering Register (NER) has been created by Engineers Australia to provide a means of presenting registered engineers and their services to the public. It also provides assurance to consumers that engineers engaged from the NER meet the high standards of professionalism expected in the engineering profession. The NER is available to allow consumers to search for a qualified engineering practitioner by name, area of practice and geographic location.
9. Can you assist with a structural inspection for a retaining wall?
RBC Perth has significant structural engineering experience with all types of retaining walls including limestone retaining walls, brick with concrete filled cavity, panel and post, and concrete (Besser) block retaining walls. We can also provide certified structural engineering drawings for the Perth and South-West region that can be issued for construction and council approval. Architectural drawings including retaining wall elevations and plan views can be produced based on the levels on the site plan.
For a quick turnaround with structural inspections of a retaining wall and other related structural engineering services, contact the team at RBC Perth today.
10. How much is the cost for a pre purchase building structural and timber pest inspection report in Perth?
The cost will usually depend on the age, size and location of the property. Contact us via our website for a detailed site specific quotation for a pre-purchase structural and timber pest inspection.
More than just a pre purchase building inspection report for Perth Homebuyers
Buying a home or an investment property in Perth is a major financial undertaking and it is recommended that a pre purchase structural and timber pest inspection is undertaken before signing the Offer and Acceptance contract for the purchase. This important decision should be supported by knowledge of the physical state of the property so that you can avoid substantial hidden costs. There are calls in the WA industry to introduce compulsory building inspections during construction to endure the quality of homes. Until then, obtaining a pre purchase building inspection Perth report will enable the buyer to make a better informed decision as to whether to proceed with the purchase. Is a pre purchase structural inspection report compulsory in Perth? The answer is no. Current legislation in Australia does not include a provision for home buyers to obtain a building and pest inspection report.
The pre-purchase building and pest inspection and reporting is to be undertaken by a qualified inspector with appropriate professional indemnity insurance. It is essential that the inspector engaged can provide independent and objective advice to the buyer with no bias or conflict of interest. Our structural engineering building condition inspections, assessments of existing buildings and pre-purchase building inspections are conducted by our licensed professional structural engineers to ensure their structural integrity has not been compromised. If the property contains a swimming pool or deck area for example, it is important to arrange for a pre purchase building and pest inspection combined with a pool inspection or deck inspection to allow our engineer sufficient time to inspect all aspects. Note: Any pool owner has a legal obligation to ensure that effective operation of the swimming pool and spa safety barriers is maintained. Gates are to remain closed at all times except when accessing the swimming pool.
Pre purchase building inspection Perth
To conduct a pre purchase structural building inspection of an existing home in Perth, one of our structural engineers will visit the building and carry out, with due diligence, the following:
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a visual inspection to identify types of structural defects and evidence of material deterioration;
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items that may require maintenance to avoid structural defects or loss of utility;
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additions, extensions or other structures that appear to be unauthorised; and
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non-structural components that might affect structural systems.
If signs of structural deterioration or defects are identified, our structural engineers provide opinions on the severity of the deterioration or defects and recommend appropriate actions to be taken. This might involve repair works or further structural investigation to parts of building. If there are signs of structural inadequacy and their causes are not apparent, a structural analyses should be performed to determine if the original structural design was adequate.
A qualified structural engineer will quantify observed structural deterioration or defects and analyse their potential impact on structures, as well as provide advice on the potential impacts of the deterioration or defects.
A typical pre purchase home inspection will result is a detailed inspection report which will include a specific observations, safety concerns and may contain advice on remedial work.
Pre purchase structural inspection Perth
A pre-purchase structural inspection for residential housing in Perth is conducted in accordance with the Australian Standard AS4349.1-2007. Whilst a close and careful scrutiny of a house building inspection is to be conducted, the structural inspection is visual in nature and does not involve destructive testing or dismantling.
When it comes to pre purchase structural and pest inspections, our key service advantages include:
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each pre purchase building inspection in Perth is performed by a Professional Structural Engineer or a Registered Builder;
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Our Building Inspection reports are written by the building inspector who conducts the actual inspection
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we are able to provide competent advice to remediate structural defects;
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we can assess and certify unauthorised structures such as patios, sheds, retaining walls, home extensions and other residential ancillary structures;
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each pre-purchase timber pest inspection is performed by a qualified inspector;
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we use the latest technology which may include moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras;
Depending on the property there are other inspections which should be considered by the Buyer such as a timber pest inspection, Council compliance inspection, electrical installation, Perth building construction inspection, building and pest inspection and specialist inspections such as swimming pool inspection, plumbing, hydraulics, mechanical services and geotechnical.
Buying a home or an investment property close to water can bring an excellent return on investment. However, the enticing prospect of being close to the ocean also requires close scrutiny of an existing home or real-estate asset to ensure that there are no unidentified major structural defects.
Structural and condition assessment inspection
During recent building inspections along Perth’s coastal and riverside suburbs, we have assisted with advice to address major structural defects often related to corrosion in reinforcement or structural steel elements.
We have significant expertise with the structural engineering and construction of all types of residential structures in Perth such as limestone or panel and post retaining walls, brick walls, patios, carports or sheds and we can assist with the retrospective structural engineering approval if required.
If you are looking to purchase a property to renovate, we can also provide engineering advice regarding the existing load bearing structural walls that may be considered for removal. We can also assist with the structural engineering certification for such renovations.
If you are planning on buying or selling a home in Perth, our team can assist with a range of structural engineering services from structural inspections to retrospective engineering approval or structural engineering certification for renovations, additions or extensions.
At Rotaru Building Consultants Perth we are experienced with building methods, structural engineering and structural inspections for a wide range of buildings from Georgian and Federation style homes to current modernist architecture.
Building inspection report from $495
How much does a building inspection cost in Perth? During September, RBC is offering pre purchase building & timber pest inspection reports from $495*.
Our team of professional structural engineers is uniquely qualified to assist with residential & commercial projects and can assist with renovation advice, removal of load bearing walls and provide guidance for remediation if major structural defects are identified during the structural inspection.
Book online and take advantage of this great offer on pre-purchase building and structural inspections until the end of September 2022.
For further technical information information on Building Inspection Perth check out our blog which contains many informative articles such as:
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Retrospective approvals for unauthorised building works in Perth, Western Australia - this article describes the process to obtain retrospective structural engineering approval for various structures such as retaining walls, carports, patios, sheds et cetera.
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Inspection of buildings - Pre-purchase inspections - Residential buildings AS 4349.1 - 2007 - this is the Australian Standard for residential pre purchase building inspections which can be purchased from Standards Australia.
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Structural engineering of swimming pools in Perth - a comparison of concrete vs fiberglass - this article provides a great overview regarding the design considerations, structural engineering, building permit process and requirement of swimming pool inspection.
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Structural and non structural cracks you might find in Perth - a home building inspection perspective - for matters relating to cracked house concerns, we have written this article to provide an overview of structural and non-structural cracks.
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Perth retaining walls inspection, design guidance, structural engineering details and construction - for a comprehensive article provide detailed guidance in relation to retaining wall.
Contact Rotaru Building Consultants Perth
If you have any questions about structural engineering plans, pre purchase building and timber inspection Perth, dilapidation reports or structural engineering certifications please contact us for assistance:
Call Us on 0418 546 717 or email us using the form below:
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