How can I find out if a building has any leaky issues?

Our Experts Answer:

There is a variety of ways to find out whether a building has leaky issues, each with varying levels of dependability. The best way is to test the building directly using an in-depth invasive structural diagnostic system analysing for timber condition, treatment and moisture readings. Moisture readings should be taken over a number of years and especially during the winter months.

For multi-unit complexes, this information should be made available to serious purchasers by the body corporate complex-wide, as you are buying into not just your property’s problems, but the entire complex. If this is not an option, checking the LIM will show if any of the complex has a WHRS (weather-tightness homes resolution service) claim.

Reading all body corporate AGM minutes and other minutes may identify if leaky issues have been discussed and minuted. Upcoming expensive maintenance costs that were not properly planned or pre-funded are also an important consideration and many things go unrecorded so discussions with owner-neighbours are also useful.

Ian has 25 years experience in the building industry and is the pioneer of home monitoring. Ian specialises in assessing building performance and condition as the head of the Step Up Group of companies, a multi disciplinary group encompassing all aspects of building investigation, preparing maintenance and repair plans, assisting in purchasing and selling of homes, warranty claims and matters to do with Building Act compliance