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| 6 Jun 2013 Renovation and other checks
If you are uncertain as to the condition of the building’s foundations or the general soundness of the house, it may be worthwhile to call in an inspector or engineer for a professional opinion. You should find, however, that if you borrow funds for your extensions, the lender will have their own inspectors check that […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Roof Leaks
Leaking roofs are a common complaint during winter, in particular in new homes that are being tested by the rain for the first time. Leaks can be caused by either a construction problem, lack of maintenance by the owner, or both. Some of the construction issues that can be the cause of roof leaks include: […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Salinity and Construction
Salt attack is an increasingly important problem in Western Australia due to our high level of coastal development and a growing salinity problem in our wheat belt and agricultural areas. Damage to buildings by “urban salinity” or “salt damp”, results from salt and water moving through capillary action through the pores of materials such as […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Security of Payments Legislation
The Construction Contracts Act, also known as security of payment legislation, commenced on 1 January 2005. Part of this legislation covers disputes between building owners and builders. The laws are designed to maintain the flow of funds between parties even when a dispute occurs and not allow an owner to retain monies owed under a […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Site Works and Contracts
Site costs can be a difficult element of a building contract. In most situations, builders will not specify an exact amount for site works, but will nominate a “provisional sum” or best estimate which may be adjusted up or down depending on work actually required. Under the Home Building Contracts Act a builder cannot just […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Storage in Homes
It is only when you have lived in a home with no storage that you appreciate how important it is to have. These days, most new home builders and designers are very good at including built in robes, linen cupboards, and sufficient cabinetry in bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. They know how much emphasis is placed […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Shower Floors – Slope
Tiling in Shower Recesses The minimum standard required for wet areas in residential buildings is contained in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and AS3740 – Waterproofing of wet areas in residential buildings. This includes tiling and gradients of bathroom floors including shower recesses. The recommended ratio of fall within showers is between 1:60 and […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Security: Outdoor
There are many things which can be done to make sure that your new or existing dwelling is as secure as possible. We will talk about security from the outside in, and what other measures can be taken to further enhance your family home’s security and safety. One thing that needs to be realized is […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Security: Your Home
There are a number of factors to consider when you want to make sure your new or existing home is as secure as possible. Below are a list of things to consider when you are trying to make your home as safe as possible. Let’s look at the house 1. Are there security screens […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Security: Home Systems
Home security systems are becoming a vital part of any residence. Crime is always on the increase, and protecting your home with a security system is becoming cheaper and much easier, with user friendly systems – even with do it yourself equipment. There are many different systems to choose from, and many experienced and approved […]