A third of properties unsafe

A building inspection company has found that a serious safety hazard is present in one of every three homes they inspect as part of buyers’ pre-purchase inspections.

Jim’s Building Inspectors, who conduct more than 500 inspections each month across the country, have warned that a large proportion of properties are unsafe with the most common issue being electrical in nature.

Renovators, in particular, are being warned about this issue.

“We commonly see poorly installed down lights in renovations and extensions that can be a potential fire hazard in roof spaces as well as older homes that simply have damaged and degraded wiring,” said Suzanne Commerford, director of Jim’s Building Inspections.

This can cause much expense to the property buyer, as well as a significant safety issue.

Any property built before 1980 is advised, by Energy Safe Victoria, to have an electrical inspection undertaken.

“Importantly consumers should be cautious as electrical wiring is generally excluded from routine pre-purchase inspections.  It’s why we offer premium inspection services where we ensure all electrical, plumbing and gas systems have been checked as well as the buildings overall condition and structures,” said Commerford.