Shadowclad: What to Watch Out For and How to Maintain It

Shadowclad is a popular choice for exterior cladding in New Zealand homes, particularly in modern and contemporary designs. Known for its natural timber appearance, it offers a versatile and aesthetically pleasing finish. However, like any building material, Shadowclad comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in New Zealand’s diverse and often harsh climate. At…

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Spotlight On : Inspector Tom

Name: Tom Kimberley Qualifications: National Cert in Carpentry, LBP Years in the building industry: 26 Area Serviced: Palmerston North/Manawatu What Led You to Become a Building Inspector, and What Do You Enjoy Most About the Job? I became a building inspector to move forward in my career and to make the most of the knowledge…

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Spotlight On : Inspector Martin

Name: Martin Feinson Qualifications: National Cert in Carpentry, LBP Years in the building industry: 30 Area Serviced: Wellington How Do You Build Trust with Clients During an Inspection, Especially When They Might Be Anxious About Potential Issues? Building trust with clients is one of the most important aspects of being a building inspector. When clients…

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The Relationship Between Building Reports and Insurance Companies

When thinking about building reports, most people typically associate them with the buying or selling of a property. However, what many may not realise is that these reports are also highly relevant in dealings with insurance companies. In fact, there are several situations where having a detailed building report can be essential for obtaining or…

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Navigating the Home-Buying Process: Why Red LBP Building Inspections are Essential

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant decisions you will make in your lifetime. Whether it’s your first home, an investment property, or a dream house by the beach, the process can be both exciting and daunting. One of the crucial steps in this journey is understanding the condition of the property you’re…

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When to Get a Weathertightness Report: Essential Advice from Red LBP Building Inspections

In the world of New Zealand homes, weathertightness is the unsung hero that protects against the all-too-familiar issue of leaky buildings. At Red LBP Building Inspections, we know the importance of keeping your home safe and dry, especially given the country’s history with leaky homes. Here are five key scenarios when obtaining a weathertightness report…

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Understanding Cracks in Plasterboard Ceilings: What They Could Mean When Buying a Property

When you’re looking at purchasing a property, a thorough inspection is crucial. One of the common issues you might encounter is cracks in plasterboard ceilings. At Red LBP, we often see these types of cracks during our inspections, and while they’re not always a sign of serious structural problems, they do warrant a closer look.…

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Understanding Soil Issues on a LIM Report: What It Means for Future Development

When purchasing a property in New Zealand, reviewing the Land Information Memorandum (LIM) report is an essential step. One of the aspects that might catch your eye is the mention of soil issues. While this might sound concerning, it’s important to understand that soil issues are not uncommon and can have various implications, especially if…

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Understanding Rainwater Systems and Septic Tanks: A Guide for Rural Homebuyers

Buying a rural property can be an exciting venture, offering a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. However, living in a rural area often means dealing with water supply and waste management systems that you may not be familiar with, particularly rainwater systems and septic tanks. At Red LBP Building…

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Timber Windows: Flaky Paint, Warping, and Maintenance Tips for Your New Zealand Home

Timber windows are a beautiful feature in many New Zealand homes, adding character, warmth, and a touch of elegance. However, they also require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. One common issue we encounter at Red LBP Building Inspections is flaky paint on timber windows, which can lead to warping and other…

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