Roof Access Issues

Inside of house roof showing limitations and access restrictions

Having a Pre-Purchase Building Inspection completed in Perth Western Australia in accordance with Australian Standard 4349.1, by a WA Registered Builder gives home buyers confidence, knowing they have made an informed decision.

Most of the time, the Building Inspector can complete the scope of the inspection as required to the agreed areas without encountering any limitations to everyone’s satisfaction. However, due to the limited physical space and inherent nature of roof void and sub-floor areas, these areas can be subject to some form of limitation or access issue.

Almost all Roof Voids and Sub-Floor areas will present with limitations or access restrictions. Known access restrictions are typical to most residential homes and are listed in the inspection agreement. It is a requirement of AS 4349.1 that any limitations discovered during the inspection are also recorded in the report.

Access Restrictions and Limitations

Typical reasons for access restrictions/limitations to Roof Void areas:

  1. Access point not usable
  2. Airconditioning (concealing)
  3. Airconditioning (Physical Prevention)
  4. Foil Insulation
  5. Insulation
  6. Pitch
  7. Roof frame (including Steel Truss)
  8. Sarking
  9. Stored Goods (concealing)
  10. Stored Goods (Physical Prevention)
  11. Structure unsafe for entry

Typical reasons for access restrictions/limitations to Sub-Floor areas:

  1. Ducting
  2. Enclosed Foundation Area
  3. Height
  4. Insulation to Underside of Flooring
  5. Locked
  6. Plumbing
  7. Stored Goods

Has the area been inspected?

If No Access is listed on your report, then the area was not inspected due to one or more of the above reasons. The Inspector may recommend access is gained and an additional inspection is required.

If Restricted Access is listed on your report, it is important to understand that it does not necessarily mean there is or isn’t an issue with that area. What it does translate to is that the inspector has made a reasonable visual assessment of that area within the limitations identified.

If you need a pre-purchase building inspection, we can take care of everything fast. You can either book online here, email us at [email protected], or call our admin team on 08 6184 5624.

What Are You Looking For?

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Determine any faults or defects in a building with a qualified building inspector.

Hi there, 

We see you have added an Electrical, Plumbing and Gas inspection (EPG) with a Pre-Settlement inspection. 

Please note these are very similar inspections, just performed at different times. The EPG occurs during your pre-purchase inspection, while the Pre-Settlement occurs 5-7 days before settlement. 

If you require both please proceed to check out. Alternatively, remove one and continue.

If you would like further information, please call our office before proceeding to check out on (08) 6184 5624