Q. ARE ALL AREAS OF A DWELLING CHECKED?
A. No. Inspections are visual only and dependant on access, visibility and safety limitations as determined by the Consultant or Technician at the time of the inspection. Plumbing and Electrical issues require Licensed Plumbers or Electricians as per Victorian State Legislation. Refer to Disclaimer Section.

Q. WHERE DO I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PRE- PURCHASE INSPECTIONS?
A. The internet is a great source of information. Many websites contain a wealth of information and links. Copies of standards can be obtained from SAI Global Australia website at a fee. The Building Commission website has abundant information and links also. To learn more about material eg Asbestos (not covered by Pre-Purchase Building Inspections), then refer to the C.S.I.R.O. website.

Q. WHEN SHOULD I LEARN ABOUT PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTIONS?
A. As soon as possible, preferably prior to making a purchase. There are limitations to these inspections and they should be understood prior to engaging these services.

Q. WHO SHOULD HAVE A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION?
A. Anyone who feels that they do not have the knowledge or experience to identify how a dwelling should be performing over a length of time.

Q. WHEN DO I HAVE A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION?
A. Prior to the sale becoming unconditional. That is, prior to an Auction, within the days specified on the special conditions clauses of your offer documentation if applicable or with the cooling off period if one is applicable or prior to making the initial offer. Otherwise it is too late.

Q. DO I HAVE TO USE A STANDARD REIV CLAUSE IN THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS?
A. No. You can use what ever clause you want that is acceptable to the Vendor.

Q. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
A. Fees will vary between Inspection Services. Fees will usually start at a base rate with discounts for “bundling” products and loadings for larger than average size homes. C.I.E. and D.V.P.C. try to keep our fees fair to all parties. Contact us for a quote or give us feedback on our pricing. We aim to be competitive within the scope of our high service levels and standards. See some of our past clients comments at the Testimonials page.

Q. HOW MUCH NOTICE IS REQUIRED TO ARRANGE INSPECTIONS?
A. This varies on a daily basis but is usually 24 to 48 hours and dependant on the Agent providing access to the property.

Q. WHEN CAN WE EXPECT THE RESULTS FROM INSPECTIONS?
A. C.I.E. and D.V.P.C. provide verbal advice on the same day as the Inspections are carried out. Usually late afternoon or early evening. Reports and pictures are emailed (C.I.E.) the same day, documentation (D.V.P.C.) dispatched by surface mail (same day).

Q. CAN WE RELAY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS WE MIGHT HAVE ABOUT A DWELLING PRIOR TO THE INSPECTION?
A. Yes. Ask us prior to the inspection so we can give you our opinion on the question and define the scope of the inspection if required. For example – is insulation present in the roof space?

Q. WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON QUESTION ASKED BY CLIENTS?
A. How much does it cost? Followed by when can it be done and when do we get the results?

Q. WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON IMPORTANT FACTOR WHEN SELECTION AN INSPECTION SERVICE?
A. Experience.

Q. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE A BOOKING?
A. Only a few minutes to call us and provide some details. We then handle the rest on your behalf.

Q. SHOULD WE TRUST A SERVICE REFERRED TO BY AGENTS?
A. Why not? The Agent is usually passing on the number of a service that he or she knows of or has had dealings with in the past. Just as they may pass on the details of a Solicitor, Conveyancing Service or Finance Broker. If in doubt then ask the Agent if there is any conflict of interest that you should be aware of?

Q. WHO ARE WE SPEAKING TO WHEN MAKING A BOOKING?
A. You will be speaking to an Owner Operator experienced in looking after your needs. You will not be speaking to a clerical person. We are not a Franchise or Booking Agency nor are we part time members of an inspection service. So our fees are free of Franchise fees or Booking Agency fees or Commissions paid based on the number of jobs sold.

Q. IS THE DWELLING GUARANTEED AS A RESULT OF THE INSPECTION PROCESS?
A. No. We have not been involved in the construction so we do not provide a guarantee or warranty for already constructed dwellings. We urge you to check any Guarantees that are offered very closely e.g. time period of Guarantee, when does it start, what does the fine print mean, what excesses if any are you liable for?

Q. DO YOU HAVE PROFESSIONAL INDEMNITY INSURANCE?
A. Yes, both C.I.E and D.V.P.C. Most serious and professional services have professional indemnity insurance however it is wise for you to check and ensure it is current and Underwritten by and Australian based Company as part of your investigations.