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INDEPENDENT PROPERTY INSPECTIONS home owner’s manual

IPI Home Owner's Manual

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I N D E P E N D E N T P R O P E R T Y I N S P E C T I O N S

home owner’s manual

2 IPI home owner’s manual

Property Identification

Address _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

State ___________________________________________________ Postcode _______________________________________________

Current Owner’s Name ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact Phone ___________________________________________ Mobile _________________________________________________

Purchase Date __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Property Inspector’s Name ________________________________________________________________________________________________

Inspector’s Contact Phone ________________________________________________________________________________________________

First Inspection Date _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

3 IPI home owner’s manual

contentswelcome to your new home 6

maintenance program 7

specific areas of your home 11

around your home 15

inside your home 17

home safety & emergency procedures 24

home security 26

energy efficiency 27

other areas 30

moving out 32

discount vouchers 37

I n d e p e n d e n t p r o p e r t y I n s p e c t I o n s h o m e o w n e r ’s m a I n t e n a n c e m a n ua l

the information contained in this Manual is in the nature of a general guide only and should not be relied upon in any critical situation. Independent Property Inspections excludes all liability for any loss or damaged incurred by any person directly or indirectly as a result of usage of this Manual and the user of this Manual does so at their own risk.

Disclaimer The Author/Publisher of this Manual advises readers that

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Police _____________________________________________________

Ambulance ________________________________________________

Fire Brigade ________________________________________________

Doctor ____________________________________________________

Independent Property Inspector ________________________________

Independent Pest Inspector ___________________________________

Independent Property Inspections Adelaide 9 Burnett Drive One Tree Hill SA 5114 Phone 0403 997 961Email [email protected] www.ipi.net.au

4 IPI home owner’s manual

Service Guarantee    We will arrange and complete your inspection as a priority

  We guarantee to stand by our quoted prices

  We will thoroughly inspect the property as required by Australian Standard 4349.1

  We will use all our experience, knowledge and training to expertly complete your inspection and report

  We will keep the �ndings of your report at all times

  Our comprehensive written report will be easily understood

  We will complete the report the same day

  We will a�ord you FREE ongoing consultancy on the report �ndings until settlement

  We will inspect your home with expertise and diligence as ifit were our own

  We will ensure you don’t have a huge repair bill with your mortgagee

We are highly trained experienced inspectorscomplying with current Australian standards

Our comprehensive and detailed reports will give you guaranteed peace of mind on one of themost important decisions you will ever make

Same day comprehensive written reports

Our inspections start from only $250

We use the latest technology

We are fully insured

Call your local Property Inspector

Neil 0403 997 961

Independent Property Inspections – Building Con�dence & Delivering Peace Of Mind

5 IPI home owner’s manual

Independent Property Inspections (IPI) – Your Property Partners. We want to be your Partners in caring for your home for life. As a valued customer of Independent Property Inspections we want to reward you and become your “Property Partners”.

Why do we do it?When you buy a property you’re on your own and left to your own resources, at IPI Your Property Partners we give you VIP priority access to all the resources you will ever need.

We are offering you the benefit of all our years of expertise in building to help you maintain your property in good condition.

We can alert you to any future maintenance that you might need to budget for.

We can advise you on all your renovation and/or extension plans.

We can even refer you to reliable trade’s people and service providers (who will actually show up on time) from our exclusive list of preferred contractors and service providers.

We have put together the Property Partners to ensure you only ever need one contact you can trust to get anything you need to do with your home.

You will receive:Discounted annual inspections to

help protect your greatest asset from a significant Structural failure through our annual inspection program, during which we conduct a complete residential building inspection and report any changes to you and advise on what needs to be done and what’s the best way to do it, we can even supply you the people to do it.

FREE Building Consultancy until settlement – helping you through all types of maintenance, repairs, renovations and extensions using our expertise and local knowledge so you are not at the mercy unknown suppliers or contractors.

VIP Access to our exclusive list of preferred contractors and service providers, including all trades from plumbers and painters to electricians and builders, roofers to rose pruners. we have personally selected these contractors and service providers due to reliability and fair pricing.

Discount Vouchers for services that include specialised inspections and building diagnostics services exclusive to Independent Property Inspections.

welcome to Property Partners

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welcome to your new home

We encourage you to take advantage of all the benefits included in this Home Owner’s Maintenance Manual and tap into the wealth of experience offered exclusively to you as our valued customer.

Annual inspections are strongly recommended. Regular inspections will not prevent defects, but will help early detection and allow remedial treatment to be commenced sooner and damage to be minimised.

Most Australians dream of owning their own home. You have turned this dream into reality and, with a little tender loving care, you and your home will be lifelong friends. We have produced this booklet in an effort to help you enjoy your new home – not just today, but always.

As a valued customer of Independent Property Inspections (IPI) we will partner you throughout this booklet and the life of your home to help ensure your home remains a significant asset for you and your family to be proud of.

IPI believes prevention is always better than cure, and with years of experience we know prevention is also much cheaper than the cure. As the home owner you have an

obligation to maintain your greatest asset. Much like your car, with proper care and maintenance, this home will serve you and others that may one day live there – for an unlimited number of years.

There are thousands of components that make up your home and we don’t expect anyone to have the expert working knowledge of all these items.

IPI has introduced its ‘Partnership Program’ to help guide you through the life of your home. Some advantages of this program include:

IPI’s exclusive 5 star Condition Rating

VIP access to our list of trades people and service providers

FREE building consultancy for 12 months after each annual inspection

Discounted Annual Building and Pest Inspections.

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maintenance program

All buildings require regular maintenance during their lifespan. Varying types of maintenance can be required to keep your home ‘looking new’ and serving you well for years.

The following categories of maintenance will assist in planning and undertaking your maintenance program:

CleaningThis is the simplest form of maintenance. Besides giving a bright appearance, cleaning can prevent build up of moulds and can stop moisture being trapped which can cause rust, rot or water damage.

Preventative MaintenanceRegular repainting of exposed timbers, sealing of joints, keeping vents and pipes clear, etc, can prevent damage occurring.

Whilst it may not be necessary to undertake maintenance on a new home for some time, it is essential you plan and budget for it.

You may also have had a Pre-Purchase or Pre-Sale inspection completed that you can now use as your reference to complete any repairs needed.

At IPI, we agree it is also important to conduct regular inspections to help detect early signs of deterioration. Regular inspections will not prevent defects occurring, however they will prevent them from becoming costly major defects or even causing a structural failure.

Rehabilitation or ReplacementWhen an item has reached the end of its usable or economic lifespan, it must be replaced. You will need to plan for the times when it is convenient to undertake the maintenance. The following Checklists may be helpful.

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checklistsWeekly

Check the operation of smoke alarms and ensure the battery is not flat. Remember: A hard wired alarm can still test ok if the battery is flat, as the alarm would use mains power, so remove the battery and test it elsewhere.

Monthly

Check and clean guttering, spouting and drains – it is necessary to remove leaves and mud in gutters and other foreign matter to prevent premature deterioration.

Check and remove rubbish accumulating close to walls.

Clean aluminum windows and door frames.

Check for leaking taps and replace washers immediately.

Check for buildup of insects in brickwork weep holes and clean if necessary.

Check that water drains away from the house after heavy rain.

Quarterly

Check and clean grease traps of the septic tank (if applicable)

Clean anodised aluminum door and window frames.

Clean glass/glazing externally and internally.

Clean gutters – very important if you are on tank water.

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Yearly Contact IPI to conduct your Annual

Building and Pest inspection, using the previous years report as a reference. Your Independent Property Inspector will always cast a more critical eye over your property and is skilled in detecting defects that are only visible to an expert trained eye.

Check and reseal if necessary – showers, baths and bench tops where a permanent water seal is required. Ensure all tap penetrations in the shower are also sealed.

Where applicable, check septic tank, sullage pit and pump.

Clean smoke alarms and check their general condition.

Clean chimneys and wood heater flues to prevent possible fire damage.

Spring It’s planting season and this could

be your first chance to get into the garden – remember if your planting trees, make plant them at least their mature height from your house.

Make sure your drainage is right – 50mm slope away over the first metre is ideal. Don’t let water pool near or against the house.

If you have agricultural drains it’s a good time to flush them out. Use a garden hose down the inspection opening to flush out any sediment build up.

Clean out the roof gutters and consider installing a leaf guard system.

Check all your waste pipes for leaks in your cupboards – hand tighten is sufficient. Replace leaking tap washers.

When the clocks change for daylight saving, change your smoke alarm batteries.

Summer In bushfire-prone areas, check for

accumulation of bushfire hazards at the start of summer and remove if near house.

Clean fascia/gutters/eaves to remove mould or mildew to prevent them spreading to timbers.

Check paint finishes to outdoor timbers and touch up if necessary.

Check for any movement or cracking in external brickwork and if evident, seek expert advice from IPI.

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Autumn Autumn is usually a dormant period

in the garden, so it’s a good time to mulch again, and there will be plenty of leaves about.

You must ensure all your gutters and drains are clear of leaves and debris before the rains start or this will result in flooding or possible water damage to your home.

Autumn is always a good time to check and clean your heating systems, flues and chimneys.

Also a great time to check and install weather and draft seals to your doors and windows before the wetter colder months start.

Now is also a good time to change over your summer curtains for heavier winter curtains as the insulation value will save on heating costs.

Winter Everyone hates working around the

house in winter so we hope you have followed the tips for the other seasons.

If you have serviced the heating system it will be working at maximum efficiency and save your energy costs, and now is when the draft seals come into their own.

Clean insect screens, check for damage and replace mesh if necessary.

Check and repair air-conditioning equipment if necessary

Check for pests under floor spaces and exterminate if necessary.

Check for any movement in external brickwork or timbers.

When the clocks change for daylight saving, change your smoke alarm batteries.

Notes

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specific areas of your home If you notice any subsidence or cracking in

your foundation walls, it is recommended you seek the advice of your building consultant as soon as possible to determine the appropriate action. Although slight cracking (up to 1mm wide) could be expected in most homes, these are worth recording to monitor any further more serious movement.

Your Independent Property Inspector will have a record of the condition of your foundation walls so he is the ideal consultant to contact if any cracking is noted.

CoNCREtE SlABSBecause of the nature of the material it is impossible to prevent some minor cracking in concrete. However unanticipated cracking can be a result of unequal ground settlement, dramatic shrinkage of the sub-soils (common in drought conditions), stress caused by trees and tree roots (some tree roots can grow up to two times the mature height of the tree), foundation failure due to inadequate design or simply excessive rainfall and/or flooding.

Whatever the extent of cracking you should contact your building consultant to determine its significance.

BRICkWoRk AND othER MASoNRY WAllSThis section can include many types of materials, for example, Clay or Concrete brick, natural stones like Sandstone, Bluestone, and combinations of concrete, mortar and stone. All these are included the masonry walls category.

StainingThese materials are generally used because of their durability, price, colour and texture differences, and all react to water and heat in different degrees. Some will show signs of discolouring that are harmless and easily cleaned using the correct solutions and cleaners, however some discolouring is a sign of other more serious problems that will need expert diagnosis by a trained inspector. Problems like rising damp can lead to more costly repairs if left unattended.

FouNDAtIoNS AND FootINgSThe foundation is the rock or soil on which the footing of the building sits. The footings can also be concrete pads under the supporting piers. The foundation walls and/or piers are the structures that transfer the weight of the building and also anchor the building to the ground and in position. These are the most important parts of the structure and require the most protection and attention.

Care and maintenance of foundations and footingsMost soils move with changes in moisture content so our aim is to minimise such changes by: • Keepinggardensandtreesawayfrom

the house • Drainingthesite • Ensuringadequatebutmoderate

garden watering • Repairingplumbingleaks.

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CrackingThis is the most common defect that puts fear into every home owner. However, if a crack appears, it may not mean your home is about to collapse. In fact, there can be a perfectly logical reason, as some masonry walls are designed to move with construction joints built into them to minimise unsightly cracking.

Most cracking can be repaired using simple cosmetic treatments, and many are not indications of a significant structural failure. Independent expert advice should be sort to determine the type and cause of the cracking as this will determine the appropriate method of correction needed. A lack of knowledge and an inappropriate method of repair can escalate damage.

IPI recommends you contact your independent inspector to assess the defect at your earliest convenience as there are many types and causes of cracking and a correct assessment is critical to ensuring the correct repair methods are adopted.

uNDER FlooR SPACENeglect of this area is common. But the cost to your home and family’s health can be significant. This area of the home, particularly under a timber floor, often hides many serious defects that not only affect your home but can also have serious health consequences for the occupants. It is vitally important that this area is constantly monitored for any signs that could lead to future problems.

Some typical problems that arise from time to time are drainage issues caused by inadequate site drainage, and ventilation problems that can cause mould and fungi problems – combined, they can contribute to the Sick House Syndrome.

Most people are aware that damp under floors can lead to mould, odour, termite infestation, rotting timbers and subsequent health problems, not to mention the damage to your biggest asset.

It is essential the under floor space remains well ventilated, dry and well drained at all times.

A good time to inspect this area is following a period of very wet weather. You should be able to access all areas and find clean dry soil conditions throughout. If this is not what you find, then we strongly recommend you seek expert advice from your Independent Property Inspector.

Some symptoms that may indicate a sick house include asthma, constant breathing or bronchial problems, stinging or sore eyes, allergies, headaches, tiredness and skin irritations. Crying windows and mould stained walls and ceilings are other tell tale signs of a sick house.

Other common defects found in this area are subsided piers (due to settlement) which can cause the floors to sag or become springy. In more extreme cases, this settlement can cause doors to bind and not close, plaster to crack and fracture, and in some areas can also cause broken and leaking pipes. This defect is often easily repaired by repacking the bearers over the affected piers.

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To recognise all these symptoms and design a solution to achieve a Healthy House, it will take an experienced expert to consider the many and varied strategies needed for a successful outcome. Some of these will include drainage, the correct level of sub floor ventilation, insulation, living space air quality, humidity, mould and fungus detection, just to name a few.

Another significant problem that frequently occurs in the under floor space is pest infestation. This area is often the front line of attack for one the most devastating pests on the planet – the infamous termite (white ant). In all its various species, it has the potential to eat your home right out from under you. Without constant and diligent inspections by a competent expert, your home will always be at risk of attack and the under floor space is one of the most common access points for the termite.

Independent Property Inspections strongly recommends you seek advice and annual inspections from an independent pest inspection expert. Although regular inspections will not prevent termite attack, regular inspections will increase the chances of early detection and help to minimise the damage caused by termites.

ExtERIoR ClADDINgSAll external claddings are very durable but also should be regularly cleaned and inspected at least annually to ensure you can identify any cracking or deterioration of materials and coatings.

It is important to maintain all claddings and coatings in good condition to ensure water tightness in all areas. Joint sealants must also be regularly inspected and maintained.

RooFSSheet RoofingSheet roofing is designed to be as maintenance free as possible. Maintenance of roofing paintwork is the same as any other exterior exposed painted surfaces. Modern colourbond roofing products have been guaranteed to last many years. However, older galvanised roofing is often painted over to hide surface rusting and deterioration. These roofs need constant monitoring to determine the extent of any rusting. Lap joints are often the first areas to show signs of advanced deterioration.

It is very difficult to halt the rusting process and advanced and/or extensive rusting usually results in complete replacement of the affected sheets. Again, this is very common in the old, short sheet style of corrugated roofing.

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Care must be taken not to patch or repair roofing with different types of materials. For example, you should never patch a galvanised sheet with a zincalume sheet as this can accelerate deterioration at the points of contact between the two types.

tiled RoofingAlthough tiles are very durable, they are also very brittle and easily cracked or even broken when walked on. Tile fixing requires a specialised skill and IPI recommends an expert should carry out such repairs or replacement.

The best time to inspect the outside of the roofing is when it is dry and safe to do so. Sheet roofing can be inspected by walking over it, however, tiled roofing should be inspected from a ladder against the guttering or eaves. From the inside, the best time to inspect the roof space is when it is raining heavily and preferably windy.

The advantage of inspecting the roofing from the inside is that any small leaks will be evident and discovered before the leaks damage other parts of the home such as the plaster ceilings.

Roof DrainageThe roof drainage system is critical for discharging storm water away from the house. The items that make up this system include the guttering (spouting), valley flashings, and downpipes.

It will always be important to keep these clean, particularly for homes that rely on rainwater from the roof catchments for drinking water. Regular cleaning is important to ensure they remain clear of obstructions and blockages that are common if overhanging trees are present.

Regular inspections for leaks in the guttering and downpipes are also crucial to minimising localised flooding that can cause foundation damage. Any leaks noted should be repaired as a matter of urgency.

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Notes

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around your home

You should also give consideration to shading and the effects your plantings may have on the passive solar design of your home.

You should also bear in mind the mature size of any trees and shrubs when considering their location (tree roots can grow up to two times the mature height of the tree). Too many trees and shrubs close to the house can cause rapid buildup of leaves and foliage in the roof gutters.

Some trees and shrubs are noted for their ability to damage homes and services. You can check with your local nursery for recommended species for planting in your area.

PlANNINg YouR gARDENWhen arranging your garden and landscaping, it is important that you plan ahead. There are many problems that can be avoided with some basic planning. Make sure there are no garden beds against the house – this will help minimise damp problems and termite entry points. All vents and weepholes must be kept clear of soil and plants.

You should also be aware of the exact position of all your service connections (sewer, stormwater, phone lines, water mains, electrical and gas connections) to avoid future root damage to these services.

trees and ShrubsTree roots can cause damage to any underground services as well as house foundations. The foliage not only causes blockages in drains and gutters, it can also contribute to bush fire hazards around your home.

SItE DRAINAgEMaintaining good site drainage is crucial to preventing water flowing to the under floor spaces and causing more significant problems. To prevent this, ensure that all areas immediately adjacent to the house are well drained and ensure that soil is graded away from the external walls of the house.

Paths and driveways should also have adequate grade of 50mm per metre away from the exterior walls of the house.

If you are installing a sprinkler system near your foundations, care must be taken not to over water so that the performance of the foundation system is not affected.

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gates and FencingMost boundary fencing is a shared cost with your neighbour so if any maintenance is required it is recommended you consult your neighbour and gain agreement before starting any significant repairs.

Gates often need minor adjustments to ensure correct operation and frequent inspections are needed. Your front fence and gates gives your visitors their first impression of your home. By keeping these well maintained you are showing the world you care about your property.

General maintenance can be as simple as keeping them clean and freshly painted, clearing away debris and weeds, etc.

Decks, Pergolas and BBQ AreasTimber decks and Pergolas are very susceptible to termite attack and should be regularly inspected for any signs of attack.

These areas are relatively maintenance free and if kept clean and well maintained, will serve you well. Care should be taken to ensure all handrails and steps are in good condition not only from an esthetic point of view but from a safety point of view. You have a responsibility to your family and guests to ensure they are always kept safe on your property.

SEPtIC tANkS AND gREASE tRAPSTo avoid problems, septic tanks require cleaning and will need to be monitored. (Check your Yellow Pages for companies who are able to carry out this work.) Grease traps need more frequent attention and should be cleaned every two or three months. If due care and attention has not been provided, your septic will overflow. Precaution is the most successful treatment: • DON’Tflushhair,greasesubstances,lint,

or other rubbish down the toilet pan. These will block the sewer drains.

• DOchoosedisinfectantsandtoilet

papers carefully, making sure to select only those types designed for septic sewerage systems.

Septic tank problems should be referred to a licensed Plumber/Drainer.

WAtER MEtERSYour water meter is situated at the front of your property and it is your responsibility to keep it clear of weeds, trees and any other obstructions. It is also important that the Water Authority has easy access to the meter at all times. It is also your responsibility to protect the meter from damage.

gARDEN oR hoSE tAPSNon return valves are best fitted to these taps to prevent contaminated water from siphoning back into the house water system from hoses left lying around.

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inside your home

sources. They are best placed well below the level of the ceiling, or above it in suitably recessed fittings. High gloss paint will give an appearance of unevenness when the surface can be seen at a wide angle. For this reason, it should not be used on ceilings and long walls.

Water penetration of wallsDampness on internal walls can be caused by the follwoing: • condensation,wherewaterisgenerated

from within or under the home

• waterentryfromabove(roofandguttering)

• penetrationacrossthewallcavity(accidental bridging of the cavity by mortar droppings or inadequate flashing around windows and doors)

• risingdamp(dampnessabovethedamp course in external brickwork)

• penetrationbehindwalltiling(moisturecan build up behind the wall tiling in showers where pre-formed shower bases are used)

cracks do not impair the structural soundness of your home.

Do not attempt to repair these cracks for the first two years, as shrinkage is likely to continue for this period. At the expiration of two years, re-decoration will probably be necessary anyway and you can “kill two birds with one stone”. Fill the cracks with a flexible filling compound (available from any paint store), smooth out with fine sandpaper and then re-decorate the entire surface.

Scuffing or indentationScuffs and indentations may be filled with two or three applications of joint cement used for drywall taping, then paint or decorate as usual.

Appearance of uneven wallsAlways remember that no building surface is perfectly flat. The aim in building is to produce the appearance of flatness and, with plaster surfaces, this appearance of flatness can always be destroyed by glancing light. Avoid using glancing lights from isolated

WAllSRegardless of whether your interior walls are plaster or wallboard, they should last without undue maintenance for the rest of the life of the building. However, to prevent undue concern, we have detailed a couple of possible problem areas, but would remind you first to always use special fasteners for hanging pictures or lightweight fixtures (available from hardware and building supply stores) to fibrous plaster and plaster board interiors.

Minor cracks in wallsMinor cracks may appear in interior walls but these should be referred to your independent property inspector to determine the cause. In new homes, some of the possible causes are heavy street traffic, shrinkage in framing timbers, heating, expansion and contraction of soil and, as in the case of concrete, the expansion and contraction of the material itself. Although they may be annoying, these

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PAINtINgThe main climatic factors affecting paint are rainfall, humidity and solar radiation. Climatic conditions of the region must be taken into account when an appropriate paint system is being selected and when the service life of that paint system is being predicted.

When drying of paint is retarded, mould growth can proliferate and repainting is needed more frequented than in temperate regions.

Painted surfacesPaints are not designed to be washed regularly as some might believe. ‘Washable’ simply means that accidental marks on walls may be cleaned off with proper care.

This is done with soapy water and a soft cloth which is dabbed on the marks until removed – wiping or rubbing will cause a shiny patch to develop.

FEAtuRE tIMBER FlooRSOwners are advised that the builder cannot guarantee a solid timber floor against any of the following risks during its life: shrinkage, splitting, or cracking or gaps opening between boards.

Timber is a natural product and flaws or cracks within and between boards may occur. Such movement is caused by many factors including seasonal change, sunlight, heating/cooling appliances, applied floor finishes etc.

If you are planning to apply a floor finish yourself then be aware that a selection of finishes are available, each of which has a different look and a different resistance to wear. These include natural, stained, varnished, polished, waxed, polyurethane and many other finishes. IPI recommends you seek professional advice when selecting your finish.

Maintenance of feature timber floors should be carried out by a professional floor sander and finishing contractor.Some general points to consider are: • Punchednailholesshouldbefilledwith

a rapid drying wood filler compatible with the floor finish. Linseed oil based fillers are not recommended if polyurethane finishes are to be used.

• Fillersshouldnotbeusedtofillgapsbetween boards as seasonal movement may squeeze the filler out of the gaps.

It is strongly recommended that the floor sanding contractor consult with the finish manufacturer to determine the suitability of the final product for use on timber floors. In particular, the potential for the finish to produce a ‘gluing effect’ within the tongue and groove joints should be determined prior to its use.

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general maintenance • Dirtandgritareatimberfloor’sworst

enemy, and that goes for carpets and vinyls also. Use dirt trapping mats at all exterior doors to help prevent sand, dust and grit from getting inside. Small rugs and small carpet sections just inside the door can also be of assistance.

• Stronglight,particularlydirectsunlightcan cause a chemical reaction in wool causing it to change colour (ageing or weathering) so move your rugs occasionally and protect the floor from direct sunlight by curtains or blinds.

• Fitprotectivepadstothelegsofchairsand tables so that they can be moved easily without the risk of scuffing the floor. If you have furniture that is fitted with castors it is preferable that the castors are the barrel type as ball castors may cause damage.

Cleaning • Vacuumorsweepregularly.Ifyou

prefer, use a damp mop and add a little methylated spirits to the water for best results (say half a cup to half a bucket of water). Do not use a wet mop on timber floors.

• Wipeupspillspromptlywithadrycloth or dry paper towel. For sticky substances, moisten the cloth slightly.

Some floors may develop an occasional squeak. The individual squeaking board should be located and re-fixed or specialist advice sought. This can often easily be repaired from under the floor.

It is recommended that any maintenance required to repair damaged boards or finishes should be carried out by a professional floor sander and finishing contractor.

kItChEN AND BAthRooMThere are three components of kitchens and bathrooms which require attention from time to time – plumbing fixtures, enamel and laminated surfaces. With good care and attention, the life span of all three may be extended.

Stains on plumbing fixturesMost stains are caused by rust, water minerals, dirt or grease. Regardless of whether or not the surface is acid resistant, slice up half a bar of naphtha-based soap in 1:1 litres of hot water. Add two tablespoons of paint thinner or dry cleaning fluid. Using gloves, apply the solution to the fixture with a stiff bristled brush to remove most simple stains.

Rust stains on acid resistant surfaces may be removed with a solution of one part muriatic acid to ten parts water. Again using gloves, apply the solution with a cloth and wash off promptly. Do not allow solution to come into contact with chrome plated fittings as this will damage these surfaces.

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Hardened paint stains may be removed with a razor blade, taking care to keep the blade slanted against the fixture in order to avoid gouging the surface. Once the worst of the paint has been removed, use any ordinary household cleaner to remove the remainder.

To remove fruit or food stains on plumbing fixtures, make up a paste of peroxide and equal parts of cream of tartar and a house hold cleaner. Apply and allow soaking for 10 to 15 minutes before washing off.

EnamelEnamel surfaces are easily scratched and stained if misused. Shiny new fixtures can soon become dulled through improper care or excessive use of strong abrasive cleaners.

laminates and AcrylicsThese products are normally used on bench tops, vanity units, etc. and although quite tough and durable, a little care and attention will extend the life of these units both in your kitchen and bathroom.

Be careful not to place hot pans and pots directly from the stove on to your laminated bench top. Although the heat resistance of this product is high, it is not designed to be used as an ironing board.

Cutting or chopping should be done on a bread board or similar, not on your bench top. Abrasives will destroy the highly polished finish of you bench top. Use a good wax polish to clean and restore the surface.

Bench and wall cabinets (including vanity)Plastic laminates need no coating. Wood veneers, timber cupboard doors, and timber bench tops should all have a suitable moisture resistant coating.

Laminated plastics are normally used on bench tops, vanity tops etc, and have a high degree of heat resistance. However, care should be taken not to place hot pans and pots directly from the stove onto these. Do not use them as an ironing or cutting board. It is recommended that all cutting

and chopping of food stuffs be done on an appropriate board.

Maintenance information for other bench top surfaces should be sought from the manufacturer. Sliding cupboard doors should be maintained to manufacturer’s instructions.

Sticking internal doorsIf sticking is minor, first apply either a paste wax, light coat of paraffin, or candle wax to the binding surface.

A sticking door is sometimes caused by movement of the door frame. Where this may be the case, hold a block of wood against the frame and tap with a hammer.

Only if the door continues to stick should you use a plane – on the sticking edge only, planning off a little at a time and then repainting the raw edge. However this may be a sign of more serious structural movement and your IPI inspector should be called to access the problem.

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21 IPI home owner’s manual

To fix a squeaking door hinge, rub the knuckle of the hinge with a soft graphite pencil or lubricate with a graphite tube (oil is not satisfactory, as it accumulates dust and grease around the hinge).

Aluminium windows and doorsAluminium sliding windows and sliding doors are easily cared for. Purchase a dry lube or dry lube spray from any hardware store. Simply apply the dry lube to the rollers at the bottom of the window or door (or top in the case of some sliding fly screen doors).

Drain holes located in the sill of the windows allow water to drain and flow inside. These need to be kept clean.

It is very important to keep the tracks of sliding windows and doors clean from dirt and grime to ensure ease in operation and lasting life, and to avoid sticking.Lack of attention can cause more costly repairs.

Maintenance of hardwareGeneral periodic maintenance is required on all hardware supplied such as locks, hinges, catches, closers, windows etc.The external finish of all hardware must be kept clean by removing any harmful residue (especially salt spray) from the surface using a non-abrasive cleaning agent.

Internal workings of locks, catches, windows etc should be kept in good working order by applying a light spray lubricant similar to WD40 or RP7 or a dry lubricant spray.

All anodised aluminium surfaces should be kept clean by prompt removal of all dirt, dust, grime and any foreign matter, using clean water and a small amount of mild detergent. Do not use any abrasive type cleaning agent as this will severely damage the anodised surface. Thoroughly rinse off any residue of detergent with clean water.

Powder coated windows and doorsJust as washing your car is important for removing dirt and grime, your powder coating

also needs to be given a regular wash to keep it looking good. The effects of exposure to ultra violet light, general dirt, and atmospheric pollution accumulate over time and should be removed by washing about every six months. It is recommended this frequency is increased if your home is close to busy highways or industrial areas.

glazingAll glass surfaces should be kept clean by washing with water and a small amount of a mild detergent, thoroughly washing off any detergent residue with clean water. IPI recommends general window cleaning quarterly.

Shower screensIt is important to ensure that hot water is not sprayed directly on to the glass screens as this action can cause cracking. The screen should be adequately sealed and seals should be checked regularly. The sliding door track should be kept clean and free of soap and hair build up.

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22 IPI home owner’s manual

Insect screensWhere the screens are fiberglass mesh, the quickest and most effective way of cleaning is to remove the screen from the frame and hose the screen with a fine sharp spray of water.

garage doorsGarage doors require very little maintenance. Wash painted metal, colourbond and aluminium doors as frequently as you wash your car. In areas where the doors are exposed to salt spray or pollution, they should be washed at least every two weeks, including the rolled section not exposed to the elements.

Lubricate hinges and rollers regularly and clean out tracks where oil tends to collect dust. Mineral turpentine is the best cleaner, but be sure that the door is dry before operating it or rollers may be damaged.If you have roller doors, do not lubricate doors installed with nylon tape talcum powder. Leave any adjustment to the experts.

SANItARY PluMBINgBurst pipes and jointsStop the water supply at the stop tap, usually situated at the front of your property, or at the entry point to the dwelling, then call an emergency plumbing service.

toilet CisternIf your cistern overflows, turn off the water at the stop tap and empty the cistern by flushing, then call an emergency plumbing service.

If your cistern continually leaks into the bowl, remove the lid and adjust the screw on the float arm to lower the water level.For toilet pan blockages, you will need to call an emergency plumbing service.

BlockagesAll sinks, baths, basins, troughs and showers have a grate over the waste outlet to prevent solid objects from blocking the trap or waste pipe. However some small solids like hair, tea leaves, and vegetable peelings can pass through the grate and cause blockages.

If a blockage does occur, it may necessary to dismantle the trap and waste pipe below. It might be worth trying a plunger to dislodge the blockage.

odoursThe most common causes of odours in homes originate from wastes. These areas should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup of bacteria. Flushing out with a garden hose can often be sufficient to clear any odours.

Grease traps are also a common cause of house hold odours and regular cleaning can help minimise the occurrence of odours.

hot Water SystemA hot water system should give you many years of reliable service and any adjustments should be done by a licensed plumber or the manufacturer’s representative.

A notable part of any hot water system is the overflow pipe and pressure relief valve setup. The overflow pipe is designed to drip

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23 IPI home owner’s manual

occasionally to maintain a constant pressure in the cylinder, however regular checking of the pressure relief valve is recommended every four to six months. To test the pressure relief valve, simply pull the lever until the hot water streams from the overflow pipe.

Solar hot Water SystemGenerally, a solar hot water system requires little maintenance; however, the safety valve should be released every six months. If your safety valve drips regularly, this only means it is doing its job of maintaining constant pressure in your system.

IPI recommends your solar hot water system is serviced every five years.

Water hammerWater hammer is the thumping in the pipes when the water is running and not the rattle of pipes when the water is turned off. Contact your plumber to fit a suppression valve to minimise water hammer.

tapwareMost taps have a washer of some form which can wear out with age, or can be crushed by over tightening. This can cause the tap to drip or leak constantly and the washer will require replacement.

Remember to turn the water supply off at the stop tap before attempting to replace the washer.

Shower basesPre-formed shower bases are usually made from an acrylic or enamel material. Cleaning should be carried out the same as for baths and other similar types of fixtures. Most modern bathroom cleaning agents are suitable for this purpose, however it is always advisable to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

Ceramic tilesCeramic tiles can be found in many areas like floors, splashbacks behind benches, basins, showers and baths etc. Although tiles appear to be hard and tough, care must be taken to prevent surface damage whilst cleaning. Before cleaning your tiles, it is important to know what the tile is. Ask your supplier what cleaning methods are to be used. Generally, you should use liquid cleaners, so that the surface does not get damaged.

oven/CooktopThe working surfaces of your cooktop or your oven can be glass or enamel. You should not use abrasive or gritty cleaners, you should use soapy water and a clean cloth, and you can also get purpose made cleaners from your local supermarket. Stubborn stains may be removed by soaking in hot soapy water.

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24 IPI home owner’s manual

home safety & emergency procedures If you suspect leaks, you should immediately

open all doors and windows, vacate the house and call your gas plumber.

SWItChBoARD & MEtER BoxThe meter box must be available for the relevant authority to access and read the meters at all times. If there is a power failure, check the switchboard for any circuit breakers that may have tripped due to overloading.

Reset a tripped switch and if it continues to trip there is either a faulty appliance, an overload of the circuit or a fault. IPI recommends you consult a licensed electrician for any fault. If an overload, simply reduce the load by turning some appliances off. The appliances that use a lot of power are those with heating elements like jugs, radiators, stoves, air conditioners, hair dryers, etc. IPI recommends you take faulty appliances to an authorised dealer.

WARNING: Do not attempt any electrical repairs at all unless you are a licensed electrician.Remember:ELECTRICITYKILLS.

A Fire Extinguisher and Fire Blanket are always a sensible addition to your kitchen and should be easily accessible at all times. IPI recommends your children should also be taught how to use these effectively. In the case of an electrical fire, first turn the power off, then water or a fire extinguisher can be used.

In the case of a fat or oil fire in the kitchen, a fire blanket should be used to smother the flames.

PoISoNINg ACCIDENtSThe key to minimising poisoning accidents is to store all medicines, drugs and household cleaning materials in locked cabinets and well out of reach of inquisitive children.

gAS lEAkSAll gas appliances can develop leaks and should be regularly checked and serviced. Typical gas appliances found around the home include your cooker, oven, heaters, hot water service and BBQs.

FAllS AND tRIP hAzARDSOne of the most common accidents in the home are falls by the elderly and children. Many falls occur in sleeping areas, cluttered steps and stairways, and living areas. Many of these falls can be avoided by following these simple steps: • keeptrafficareasfreeandclearof

obstructions and children’s toys

• maintaingoodlighting

• ensurefloorfinishesaredryandskidresistant.

ElECtRICAl hAzARDSPleaserememberELECTRICITYKILLS!The first precaution should always be to install an Earth Leakage Safety Switch if not already installed. Circuit breakers can also be installed on all electrical circuits. Never overload outlets or use appliances near water.

25 IPI home owner’s manual

lIghtINgIf light bulbs continually blow you should have the wiring and connections checked. IPI recommends using energy saving bulbs where ever possible.

SMokE AlARMSSmoke alarms must be adequately maintained to remain effective. You can easily test them by pressing the test button and this should be done weekly. IPI recommends all smoke alarms are cleaned and batteries changed every six months (changing batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings is a good reminder for you).

hEAtINgThere are a number of ways to heat your home: • gas–reticulatedofportable

• solidfuelheating–fireplaces– which can be the traditional fireplace, or metal fire places and solid fuel combustion stoves

• oil

• electricalheaters,air-conditioners, solar heating systems

Note: if you have had any of these installed in your home, be aware that air conditioning or heating one room can cause uneven moisture levels in adjoining rooms which in turn can cause distortion of connecting room doors. Keepdoorsopenasmuchaspossibletoeventhe air temperature and humidity.

e m e r g e n c y & s a F e t y p r o c e d u r e s

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WINDoWSWindows are also very popular for gaining access to your house. Suitable window locks should be fitted to ALL windows. Don’t forget small windows such as those in toilets or ensuites, as children are often used to gain access through these so that they can then open doors for thieves.

gAtESThieves always look for easy access. Even a locked side gate will act as a deterrent.

ShEDSSheds often contain valuable tools, including tools which can be used to obtain access to your house. Ensure that adequate locks are fitted.

AlARM SYStEMSThe strongest deterrent to would-be thieves is a properly installed alarm system. When activated, an alarm system will normally sound a very loud siren. The noise will scare off thieves and also alert neighbours who can contact the police on your behalf. An alarm system can be used to monitor doors, windows and internal areas where you may have valuables. The range of alarms varies from localised units sounding a siren through to units that can be monitored 24 hours a day by the large security companies.

home securityIt is estimated that one in five homes will be broken into over the next five years. Possessions such as a DVD player and television, if stolen, can usually be replaced under household contents insurance. However, there is no compensation for the violation of your privacy or the loss of personal items with significant sentimental value. You cannot, in most cases, make your home totally burglar proof, however, by taking a few basic precautions, would-be thieves can be strongly deterred from violating your home.

DooRSRear door and patio doors (particularly sliding type) are very popular with thieves for gaining access. Secure locks are necessary. Front doors are most popular amongst thieves for removing your possessions; therefore, inside security is an important as outside security. A good quality dead latch type lock is recommended.

27 IPI home owner’s manual

the hardware store to buy something and do a little physical work to get it done)

level 3 – EasyWill require more work and may take several hours to complete

level 4 – high High cost items that may need professional installation (this could be water storage tanks, solar heating systems, more efficient split system air conditioning etc).

level 1 – things you can do immediately.1. Turn down the temperature on your hot

water heater (so you no longer have to add cold water to cool it down for use)

2. Turn off and unplug appliances when not in use (including battery chargers when your phone is fully charged)

3. Turn off all lights when not in use

energy efficiencyIs Your Home Energy Efficient? This quick guide will help you improve your energy efficiency immediately. The outcome of following this guide is three fold.

Cut household energy bills

help save the Environment

Improve your comfort and health

For your convenience we have arranged this guide in order of ease and cost:

level 1 – Childs PlayDead Simple to adopt immediately at no cost (meaning all you have to do is change a habit or unplug something that is really easy)

level 2 – Very EasyVery Easy to implement but may require some physical work and minor expense (which means you might have to run to

4. Cook with smaller appliances (did you know a microwave uses 50% less energy than a conventional oven, and toaster ovens use 75% less than a conventional oven)

5. Wash full loads in your dishwasher. Your dishwasher user the same amount of water and energy whether you have half a dozen plates and cups or if its full. You can also save up to 7% energy consumption simply by turning off the heat dry setting and letting the dishes air dry

6. Turn your heating down and put warmer clothes on. You can save up to 10% of your heating cost every couple of degrees

7. Only heat the rooms your in and close the doors

8. Close the blinds and curtains at night to prevent heat loss

9. Run ceiling fans in reverse during the winter months, doing this consistently will make significant savings in your heating costs

28 IPI home owner’s manual

level 2 – things you can do immediately but may require a little work.1. Switch your bulbs to CFL’s (compact

fluorescent lamp) they are much more efficient and last 10 times longer, (each light being used on average of 4 hours per day can save $30 per year on your energy bill)

2. Plug all the holes in your home. This is one of the best ways to save on your winter heating bills, and deserves more specific detail, the problem areas include

3. Door and window frames and sashes

4. Wall and ceiling vents and fans

5. Electrical, gas and water lines

6. Air conditioning units

7. Check heater ducting for gaps and good seals

8. Phone and TV cables

9. Draft seal all external doors

10. Fireplace chimneys and flues

11. Gaps in floors, around skirting boards and architraves

12. Seal all plumbing pipe penetrations in floors and walls

13. Around the foundations

14. Products to help you plug all the gaps include, weather stripping (foam or rubber), caulking and sealants, foam fillers, and the good old draft sausage for the bottom of the doors.

15. Install low-flow shower heads. This can save up to 4 litres per minute and that’s also less water that needs heating

level 3 – things that are easy but will take several hours to complete or cost a little more.1. Insulate your roof space or ceilings. When

this is properly done it can save up to 10% of your heating and cooling costs

2. Dry clothes on the line and stop using the dryer

3. Check and replace the fridge seals if needed

4. Buy energy efficient appliances according to the Energy Star Ratings

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level 4 – these are high cost items that will need professional installation.1. Install solar hot water heating

2. Install double glazed windows or insulate your existing

3. Install Water storage tanks

4. Install more efficient heating.

If you make these changes, you will save hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars a year on your energy bills. You will literally stop tons of carbon from being pumped into the atmosphere each year

Saving energy doesn’t have to be an expensive, involved project. As you can see, all these steps are easy to implement into your home and lifestyle. Whether your planning to be self sufficient or just looking to save money and help reduce your carbon footprint, reducing energy consumption has to be everyone’s first step.

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CoNDENSAtIoNWhen you consider the many litres of water in the materials such as concrete, plaster, wall paper paste, tile work and even some types of paint used during construction of your home, and then when you home is occupied, all the extra moisture introduced into the home from the bathrooms, laundries and the kitchen, it is hardly surprising that condensation is most apparent in many homes.

As a result of the amount of water in building materials, droplets of moisture will appear and, although quite normal, this often causes new home owners some concern.To help reduce the amount of condensation in your home: • aidthedryingoutprocessbyensuring

adequate ventilation at all times.

• useanexhaustfaninthekitchen,bathrooms and laundry areas or, failing this, open windows whilst cooking, showering and drying clothes.

• ensurebedroomsarealsowellventilated after each night.

• maintainpropersurfacedrainagearound your home to prevent moisture vapours rising inside the house.

• ensuretherearenodampproblemsinthe under floor space if you have timber floors.

Ensure that equipment such as space heaters and clothes dryers are properly vented.

BuShFIRES If you live in a bushfire-prone area, there are a number of measures you can take to protect your home and perhaps save it from destruction in a bushfire. It is important to clear hazards from around and under the house: • protectallexternalopenings–

windows, doors, vents, chimneys – with metal flywire screens or shutters to prevent glass breakage which would allow embers to enter the house.

• sealallexteriorgapsforthesamereason – eaves, around windows and doors etc.

• protectthesub-floorarea.

• providesomesortofbreakbetweenthehouse and any vegetation.

• keepundergrowthdowntoamanageable level.

• cleanleavesoutofgutteringandmakeplugs so that roof gutter downpipes can be blocked quickly and gutters filled with water if a fire is approaching.

• makesurethereisanadequatesupplyof water to put out spot fires.

• furtherinformationisavailablefromyour local Fire Service.

PEtSAllergens are found in the sweat, saliva, hair, urine and dead skin flakes of pets. Cats tend to produce a more severe allergic reaction than dogs but birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and rats can also trigger asthma.

other areas

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If anyone comes into your home who suffers from asthma, it is important to remember that putting the pet outside will not reduce the trigger as pet danger (dead skin flakes) still remains as part of the dust on the furniture. You can minimise the risk of triggering asthma if you have your pet live outside the house, and especially out of your bedroom.

Proper, thorough and regular cleaning can also help minimise reactions. More information can be found on asthma websites such as www.nationalasthma.org.au

tERMItE PRotECtIoNIndependent Property Inspections strongly recommends you seek advice and annual inspections from an independent pest inspection expert. Although regular inspections will not prevent termite attack, regular inspections will increase the chances of detection and minimise the damage caused by termites due to their early detection.

If your home has a termite control system installed, it is your responsibility to comply with the warranty conditions of that system.

When you are landscaping around your home you must ensure that: • anytermitebarriersarenotbroken

• allweepholesandsub-floorventsarenot covered

• woodisnotstoredclosetoyourhome

• regularinspectionsfortermiteinfestations are completed by an independent pest inspector.

WooD BoRERSPower post beetles attack only the sapwood of eucalypt timber and certain other hardwoods. Normally, sapwood does not appear in home construction but even when eaten out, the strength of remaining sections is not usually affected.

Only if more than one third of the cross section size of the member is affected then it is recommended it should be replaced.

We suggest that if you have any queries or doubts regarding borers, you contact your local independent pest inspector as a matter of urgency.

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moving outWho to tEllWhen you are going to move house, you will need to update your address details with many people and organisations, and probably deal with more companies than you think.

Spend time on collating a list of those organisations that may need to know that you’re moving – we’ve made a start for you:

❏ Australian Electrical Commission

❏ Australia Post - Redirect Mail.

❏ Australian Taxation Office

❏ Accountant

❏ Banks

❏ Centrelink

❏ Charities

❏ Clubs

❏ Credit Card Suppliers

❏ Dentist

❏ Doctors

❏ Employers

❏ Employees

❏ Financial Institutions

❏ Health Fund

❏ Household Services

❏ Insurance Companies

❏ Internet Service Provider

❏ Local Council

❏ Newspapers/Magazine Subscriptions

❏ Phone Suppliers Land Line & Mobile

❏ Schools

❏ Solicitor

❏ Superannuation Funds

❏ Water, Gas & Electrical Companies

❏ Vehicle Licensing and Registration Authorities

Australia Post also offers an online Address Notification service, where you can select from a list of companies with whom you may need to update your details.

You can visit www.auspost.com.au/movingservices for more information.

33 IPI home owner’s manual

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34 IPI home owner’s manual

annual building inspection certificate PROPERTY ADDRESS

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

1ST ANNUAL BUILDING INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

2ND ANNUAL BUILDING INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

3RD ANNUAL BUILDING INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

4TH ANNUAL BUILDING INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

Please note these inspections are essential in maintaining your home and identifying defects before they become major and costly

35 IPI home owner’s manual

annual pest inspection certificatePROPERTY ADDRESS

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

1ST ANNUAL PEST INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

2ND ANNUAL PEST INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

3RD ANNUAL PEST INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

4TH ANNUAL PEST INSPECTION DUE: ____ / ____ / ________ Inspected by: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____ / ____ / ________

Please note these inspections are essential in maintaining your home and identifying defects before they become major and costly

36 IPI home owner’s manual

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Notes

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44 IPI home owner’s manualwww.ipi.net.au