Pest inspections are important for homeowners and home buyers alike. If you’re the former, you need to conduct pest inspections at least every two years, and if you’re the latter and looking for Melbourne Australia houses for sale, you should have it inspected before making an investment. The cost of pest inspection in Melbourne starts at as low as $200 in the best places to rent in Melbourne, but the average expense for a small apartment is around $500.
Why Pest Inspections Are Important
A pest inspection indicates if there’s a pest problem (or potential for one) in your home. It’s often carried out as part of a pre-purchase of a property, along with a build inspection, or as an annual property check-up.
Pest inspections are important because they prevent your homes from suffering any damage, plus they keep the people living there free from any pest-related illnesses. It gives you peace of mind but also saves you from costly and time-consuming remedial work that comes with pest infestations. They’re especially necessary for properties that have used a significant amount of timber in their construction, especially if they have direct contact with the ground.
Termites are the most common pests, and they can attack even plaster boards, carpets, paper, and plastics. Other pests include birds and small mammals (e.g. mice) who seek shelter and breed in the crevices of your home. These pests can cause different problems, such as weakening, breaking, or rotting of materials.
When to Get a Pest Inspection
It’s best to get a pest inspection if you’re buying or selling a home to ensure your property is free of problems and so you can get the most accurate value for it. For existing homeowners, you’ll want to get pest inspections at least every two years, or as soon as possible when you think you have a pest problem, to prevent any damage and retain the value of your home.
Pest inspections are also a good idea when you’re doing any kind of work on your home. Something like a kitchen renovation can be a good opportunity to for professionals to inspect areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
How Much Are Pest Inspections in Melbourne?
In Melbourne, pest inspections start at $200 for a studio. For homes, it can start at $500 for a two-bedroom unit and reach up to $600 for extra large properties. The price typically depends on the size of the house and the level of inspection required, so you must assess the details and type of work you want to do to get a realistic price. For example, a pre-purchase pest inspection is cheaper than a combined building and pest inspection.
What Does a Pest Inspection Involve?
Pest inspections must be done according to the Australian Standard (AS4349.3 – 1998)–Inspection of Buildings, Timber Pest Inspections. It should examine all elements of the property, including:
- Internal and external walls and floors
- Garden fences
- Garages and other adjacent structures
- Roofing
- Timber posts
- Subfloors
The comprehensive examination must report any signs of past or current pest activity, as well as the likelihood of it in the future. It must also provide recommendations for pest removal or prevention.
Tips When Hiring Pest Inspectors
It’s important to do your research when hiring pest inspectors so that you find the right professionals at a good price. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Give Detailed and Accurate Information
The details you give about your property help pest inspectors give you an accurate quote. Be sure to tell them about the size and what you want to be done so that you also know how much you can expect to pay.
Get Quotes From Different Pest Inspectors
Different pest inspectors have different prices. Ask around and get quotes from several companies to find the best choice for you.
Hire a Licensed and Insured Pest Inspector
Ensure you’re hiring a licensed and insured pest inspector to safeguard your home and to make sure you’re paying your money’s worth.
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