The Silent Invader: Understanding and Managing Lichen-Covered Roofs in New Zealand

At Red LBP, our pre-purchase building inspectors often come across roofs adorned with a natural but problematic growth: lichen. While it might lend a property a charming, rustic appeal, lichen can become a serious issue if left unchecked. In this blog, we’ll explore what lichen is, the potential problems it can cause for your roof,…

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Spotlight On : Inspector Yang

Name: Yang Gu Qualifications: National Cert in Carpentry, LBP Years in the building industry: 12 Area Serviced: Auckland North West What led you to become a building inspector, and what do you enjoy most about the job? My path to becoming a building inspector started after more than a decade of hands-on experience in the…

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Red LBP: The Founding Story

Once upon a time, I found myself in a unique position. I was working as a quantity surveyor (QS) in my own company and had the privilege of assisting numerous tradies and builders throughout New Zealand. My role required me to delve deep into the inner workings of each business, understanding how they operated and…

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The Hidden Costs of Neglect: Lack of Maintenance Issues in Homes We Inspect

At Red LBP Building Inspections, we often come across homes that have been neglected in terms of maintenance. While it might seem like skipping a few upkeep tasks here and there is no big deal, these small oversights can lead to bigger problems down the road. Let’s chat about some common maintenance issues we find…

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Ensuring a Safe Home: The Lowdown on Meth Testing and Legal Requirements in New Zealand

Methamphetamine, known by various street names like P, Ice, or Meth, is a serious concern in New Zealand. In this comprehensive 1000-word article, we’ll explore why it’s a good idea to test properties for meth, what the legal rules are, and the changing standards that help us deal with this issue. Understanding the importance of…

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Red LBP Blog Series – MDF Reveals/Archs – The Down Low

The Secrets of MDF Reveals and Architraves: Guarding Against Moisture Menace In our ongoing series, we’re turning our attention to a commonly used but moisture-sensitive material: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) reveals and architraves. We’ll delve into what MDF is, where it’s often employed, and how moisture affects it. Additionally, we’ll explore the ramifications of moisture…

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Red LBP Blog Series – Concealed Gutters – The Down Low

In our ongoing series of articles spotlighting common building material issues, we now turn our attention to concealed or “hidden” gutter systems, where aesthetics meet potential pitfalls. We will explore the various types of concealed gutters, the potential problems they present, the role of building inspectors in identifying water leaks, and the importance of using…

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