Buying an older house on Cobbitty's rural edge
Roofs, mortar and settlement cracking on established homes in south west Sydney.
In short: On older homes nearby we find roof tile faults, eroded pointing and settlement cracking more often than anything else.
Not every Cobbitty sale is new
Alongside the estates, older homes on large blocks still change hands. They need a different kind of inspection from a five year old estate house.
Start with the roof
On a recent pre-purchase in Horningsea Park, ridge pointing had eroded and a valley tile had dislodged, leaving a gap. Roof faults like these let water into the ceiling over time.
Then the walls
Settlement cracks to walls, cornices and skirtings were recorded on the same home, with a recommendation for engineering advice.
Look for the cause
Cracks are a symptom. Drainage, tree roots and reactive soils are common causes on larger blocks.
What the report gives you
A clear list of major defects and safety hazards to raise with the agent before cooling off ends.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Cobbitty. Licensed building practitioners, NSW Fair Trading licence 366177C.
