Overflowing or blocked gutters are one of the most common issues noted in presale building reports. Not only do they signal poor maintenance, but they can also lead to water damage, mould, and structural issues—especially around eaves and downpipes. Inspectors are required to report visible blockages or signs of overflow, even if it’s just leaves. If you are clearing gutters yourself make sure you take appropriate safety precautions when working at heights.

 What to do:

• Clear leaves, twigs, and debris from all gutters and downpipes
• Flush gutters with a hose to check water is draining freely
• Trim back any overhanging branches that could cause future build-up
• If gutters are rusted, sagging or disconnected—get them fixed before inspection

Loose, cracked, or missing roof tiles—and rusted or lifting metal sheets—will always be reported. Inspectors must note visible damage, even if it doesn’t cause current leaks. If you are undertaking any roof maintenance yourself make sure you take appropriate safety precautions when working at heights.

 What to do:

• Walk around the property and look for obvious signs of wear from the ground.
• Replace cracked tiles and secure any loose sheets.
• If in doubt, have a roofer do a quick review before your presale inspection. If you obtain a specialist report, we’re happy to include it as an addendum to provide added reassurance for prospective buyers.

Overgrown vegetation, stored items, and garden beds built up against the home’s exterior can all trigger comments in a building report. Inspectors are required to note anything that obstructs access, traps moisture, or increases the risk of pests.

✅ What to do:

• Trim back plants, vines, and shrubs that are touching or leaning on walls
• Trim bushes, vines, and branches that touch walls, eaves, or the roof
• Remove mulch, soil, or landscaping that covers weep holes or sits high against cladding
• Move bins, firewood, garden furniture, and any stored goods away from walls and vents
• Cut back plants from fences and clear garden beds that are too close to the house.

Pooling water or poor drainage is a red flag. Inspectors must report signs of water damage or inadequate drainage.

✅ What to do:

• Check that water flows away from the home and doesn’t collect at the base of walls.
• Clear garden drains, downpipes, and stormwater pits.
• Add gravel or redirect runoff if needed to improve flow
• Hot water, air conditioning and water tank units that release water alongside or near to building walls need to be connected to a drain. This will be observed during your inspection. If this is not possible then their water outlet needs to be piped several meters away from the
  building, as the resulting wet area is highly conducive to termites

Cracks, peeling paint, rust, and signs of water damage are all noted in reports. Even cosmetic touch-ups help reduce the appearance of neglect.

✅ What to do:

• Patch or repaint areas where materials are deteriorating.
• Replace broken bricks or cracked render where possible.

If your home is elevated, the inspector will need to get under it. If access is blocked or sealed off, this may result in a limited report which concerns buyers.

✅ What to do:

• Unlock any hatches or doors to the subfloor area
• Remove stored items or obstacles blocking access
• All subfloor stored goods and debris is noted in reports, it’s an easy win to have the area clear so there is nothing for us to comment on
• Make sure vents aren’t obstructed by plants, soil, or debris
• Observe if the subfloor is wet, if so you might need some plumbing or ventilation advice

Loose balustrades, rusted fixings, and weathered timbers are common notes in reports

✅ What to do:

• Tighten screws or bolts and check for movement or rot
• Treat any rust or decay on handrails or posts
• Replace broken or cracked decking boards

Timber stored next to the house, garden sleepers in contact with walls, or untreated timber fences can all be flagged as conducive to termite activity.

✅ What to do:

• Remove loose timber or firewood stored near the home.
• Ensure timber garden edging or structures aren’t touching the building.
• If there are any doubts in your mind regarding the presence of timber pests, consider a pest inspection beforehand. Termite damage is commonly reported in presale reports for older buildings, but live species detected on site might delay your sale