Townhouses and Leaky Roofs

nugley on 10/10/2020 - 18:32
Last edited 10/10/2020 - 18:52

I recently inspected a 3-level townhouse for sale that had been rented out for a long time and is still being rented out.

Aside from a water damaged wall due to a leaky shower, we noticed black mould in the corner of the ceiling in the master ensuite, which is situated on the top level . I've been advised by friends, some of whom are serious DIYers and one builder, that the mould is due to a leaky roof. It seems that the damage is isolated to this spot and hasn't spread further based on visual inspection. The roof of the townhouse is shared with another 3 townhouses in the complex. I'm fairly new to the property market and I am wondering if such a property is worth considering.

Unfortunately, the agent said he was unaware of any issues with the townhouse when I spoke with him at the inspection.

I am posting this because I would like to hear the stories of others who have faced a similar issue, especially from those who own townhouses. For example, what steps did you take to solve the problem, was it a major headache and how much did it cost to solve.

Looking forward to hearing other's stories. Thanks.

Home & Garden

Comments

  • dasher86 on 10/10/2020 - 19:08
    +3

    Does the townhouse have a strata?
    How many townhouses are in that strata?

    Is it possible to get into the ceiling for a full inspection before purchasing?

    After finding the leak in the roof and getting it fixed (should be strata if there is one), you will most likely have to cut out that part of the ceiling and repaint.

    Check out the strata minutes and see how much the insurance excess is.

  • oscargamer on 10/10/2020 - 19:36
    +4

    The agent is not your friend. The agent is actually working against you. Trust NOTHING they say.

    You should get the property inspected before taking it any further. Could be a $100 gutter issue or a $30000 re-roofing issue.

  • DannyC on 10/10/2020 - 21:01

    It could be hiding some more serious issues until you get it fully inspected and assessed. As others have said this ignorance from the agent is not unusual.. happens all the time… And I would not trust their word on it.

  • SF3 on 10/10/2020 - 22:42

    Unfortunately, the agent said he was unaware of any issues with the townhouse when I spoke with him at the inspection.

    As others have said, agent works for the vendor side. Think used car salesman. They are just there to take profit.

    Pay for an inspection if you are keen, it’ll cost you maybe a few hundred (if someone can share any recent experiences and cost) than have remorse if you do purchase.

    Also if there are going to be big repairs/maintenance, the strata will increase to pay for it, see if there are already works planned.

  • Trying2SaveABuck on 11/10/2020 - 00:31

    STAY AWAY FROM IT

    Roof Plumbers are probably the MOST expensive tradesmen to call and insurance often wont cover leaking roofs (they will cover the damage from the leak however it is a nightmare)

    As for being new the property market DONT TRUST THE AGENTS - they are call a word that starts with C and ends with T and if anyone else you they know a 'nice agent' that are laying, dumb or crazy.

    If you are new to the property game dont buy anything with risks extra risks i wish someone gave me this advice it would of saved me loads of headaches.

  • [Deactivated] on 11/10/2020 - 09:52

    Get a building inspection. Simple. The mould on the ceiling may be less of an issue than the leaky shower. The mould could be from poor ventilation or it could be a leaking roof or pipe.

  • nugley on 11/10/2020 - 15:16

    Thank you everyone. Appreciate your thoughts. I've arranged to get a building inspection. If the damage is minimal, we'll consider making an offer but if the damage is extensive then we'll move on and look for other opportunities. I guess it's all about taking one step at a time and making the best possible decision at each step.

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