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ARCHICENTRE ACCREDITED ARCHITECTS

What are their qualifications?

All Archicentre Accredited Architects complete five years tertiary study in design and construction. This is followed by at least two years practical training and then undertaking formal exams, before qualifying as a registered architect. On top of that, all Archicentre Accredited Architects undergo specific training to gain accreditation to deliver our products and services. These credentials combined with years of expertise make Archicentre Accredited Architects the most highly-regarded building professionals.

Why use an Archicentre Accredited Architect?

Your Archicentre Accredited Architect

• is a highly qualified independent building and design expert,
• has at least five years tertiary education covering all aspects of design and construction,
•  has a minimum of two years industry experience,
• has undergone further rigorous testing prior to formal registration under your State's respective Architects Act,
• has undergone further Archicentre product and service specific training;
• is a member of the Australian Institute of Architects, and
• is covered by $10M Professional Indemnity insurance.

PRODUCT – DESIGN REPORTS

What is a Design Report?

A feasibility study produced by an Archicentre Accredited Architect to explore your home or property's potential for a renovation or new home. For a small fixed price, an Archicentre Accredited Architect will consider your brief, review your options, assess whether what you want is possible, how it might look, and if it is likely to fit into your budget before you commit to a large expense. 

What is included in a Design Report?

Following an architect's visit to your property, your architect will prepare an Archicentre Design Report to demonstrate the design enhancement potential of your existing house (Renovation Design) or building site (New Home Design). This report will include:

• A review of your brief
• A written summation of the design principles, sustainability and compliance issues underlying the presented proposal
• An architect's sketch plan of the proposal and an elevation or perspective view (as applicable).
• A range of recommended other specialist professions or services if required.
• An opinion of broad construction costs, so you don't start a project you can't afford.
• You'll also get professional unbiased advice on the optimum build option, such as a single or multiple storey, orientation, layout, etc. and an opportunity to discuss project related issues with your architect such as building material and finishes options, permits and so on.
• Additional technical information sheets and a cost guide to help you budget for the project.

How long will the Design Report take to complete? 

Design Reports generally take 4-6 weeks.

What preparation do we need to take before we see the architect? 

Take time out to set yourself some project objectives. Do you know specifically what you want or are you open to other options? What goals will the new plan accomplish? What spaces do you need? What lifestyle improvements do you wish to achieve? Take these thoughts to your architect.

Will the architect specialise in the type of design work we want?

Yes. Let Archicentre play matchmaker. Our customer service personnel can select an architect who works in your style with care and sensitivity to your circumstance, lifestyle and budget and if you are not satisfied with the architect after the first meeting just call us straight away and we will send you another at no charge to you.  You do not need to talk again with the first architect.

What will the Design Report Achieve?

It will allow you to work through your ideas and determine not only if they are feasible, but whether they can be achieved both practically and financially.

What are the benefits of using an architect?

Architects can save people many thousands of dollars with good design and add considerable value to your property as it can be sold as an "architect designed home". This is what they train for so many years to do. Architects will combine a variety of factors such as space restrictions, privacy, circulation, noise-separation, sustainability, cost-effective materials, the environment, orientation and view maximisation in order to give you:

1. Reduced running costs due to the use of good environmental principles reducing the amount of energy you consume.
2. Reduced maintenance costs from the use of correct materials.
3. A reduction in build costs due to optimal utilisation of space and correct building materials and processes.
4. A much better place to live – architect designed homes simply work better.

After using the Archicentre design service, what are the advantages of using an architect to administer the building contract?

With an architect administering the building contract, you can achieve a better end result without getting deeply involved in technical and everyday building matters. This equates to quality time, peace of mind, and the likely avoidance of costly contract variations and even legal disputes - meaning more money in your pocket and less stress. The architect can also assist with council permits, selecting builders, competitive tenders and can professionally oversee the building project to a satisfactory conclusion. Remember the architect will focus on ensuring your best interests are preserved from start to finish.

How can we use the Design Report?

The Design Report can be used:

1. To assess feasibility, finances and future family needs.
2. To help gain finance approval from a lender.
3. To show friends and family so they can help you with your decisions.
4. Your architect can provide creative direction and add strength to your ideas.

PRODUCT – PROPERTY INSPECTION

What is a Property Inspection?

This is a visual inspection of the reasonably accessible areas of the whole property, including attached and detached buildings such as: garages, sheds, carports.  It identifies major and minor defects and maintenance items to the interior and exterior of the building and the surrounding property, provides rectification and maintenance advice and trade recommendations.

How long will the inspection take to complete? 

A Property Inspection generally takes around 1 to 2 hours on site; however this is dependant on the size, condition and accessibility of the property and buildings.

What is the timeframe for the inspection to be arranged?

We will usually complete the inspection within 2 business days for combined Property and Timber Pest Inspection, or the next business day for a Property or Building Inspection only. This is subject to property access.  A same day inspection can be arranged for an additional fee.

What is the service provider qualified as?

This is where you need to be very careful as in all states, other than Queensland, literally anyone can be an inspector – with no training, experience, insurance or qualifications.  Archicentre guarantees to use only qualified and registered architects. All our accredited architects have completed a minimum of 5 years tertiary education and at least 2 years of professional experience required for registration with the relevant state/ territory Architects Registration Board. They are also members of the Australian Institute of Architects, and have completed additional Archicentre training in property inspection, defect identification and analysis. In a market where there is no regulation and literally anyone can be an inspector, it is vital that only highly experienced and qualified inspectors are used for what is most people's most expensive purchase.

Do I have to be there for the inspection?

No, usually either the allocated architect or an Archicentre Customer Service Consultant will arrange the inspection. Once the inspection has been completed Archicentre will call you to let you know the findings of the inspection.  Should you prefer, for an additional small fee, we can arrange an appointment for an on-site meeting with the architect at the completion of the inspection (fee is applicable only once on a combined Property and Timber Pest Inspection service).

What does the report contain?

• A detailed and comprehensive electronic report with a minimum 200+ point inspection checklist
• Identification of defects – major and minor - and maintenance items
• A 12 month $50,000 Guarantee Offer
• Analysis and assessment of all defects with appropriate recommendations for rectification or maintenance
• Recommendations as to the most appropriate trade or professional expertise to rectify identified defects
• Complies with rigorous Australian Standards, so you will receive the very best quality report
• A detailed Archicentre Cost Guide to help you understand the costs of common repair and maintenance items as well as typical renovations and home improvements
• Further advice on areas of concern and preventative measures, so you can fix and maintain your property and avoid costly future maintenance costs

When will I receive my Report after the inspection?

You receive verbal over the phone advice on the day of the inspection, and an electronic report will be emailed to you within two business days of the inspection being completed.

Who do I call if I have any questions?

If you have any queries you can call the inspecting architect directly (their contact details will be on the Report) or Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

If there is a defect on the report am I able to back out of my contract?

The best insurance is to have us undertake the inspection before you buy. However, as many purchasers make the Contract subject to a property inspection, particular care must be taken in nominating the specific conditions by which the contract may be voided.  You would need to discuss this with either your solicitor.

What trades do you recommend?

Archicentre is completely independent.  You can rest assured that you will not be given recommendations for work that does not need to be done. Archicentre does not recommend any specific companies, businesses, proprietary products or treatments. We only work for you and your best interests.  We will advise on the type or area of expertise of tradespeople or professionals recommended to carry out further investigation or repairs.

Will the report tell me if there are major structural defects?

Absolutely, if a structural defect or conditions contributing to the development of a structural defect are evident at the time of the inspection. Our expertise, together with our $50,000 structural Guarantee Offer provides you with piece of mind (please read the terms and conditions of the guarantee for more information).

Do you offer a Guarantee?

The Property Inspection comes with a $50,000, 12 months Structural Guarantee Offer. (Please refer to the terms and conditions of the guarantee for more information).

How do I take up the Guarantee?

You can download the Guarantee from the link found in your report email. Simply read and complete the Guarantee and email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - Archicentre will authorise this and send you a copy for your records.

Is it cheaper for me to purchase a combined Property and Timber Pest Inspections

Yes, a combined Property and Timber Pest Inspection service is offered at a discount when compared with 2 separately booked inspections.

Does the same person do the combined report?

No. Archicentre only uses expert inspectors for each service.

If I need to cancel my booking, what do I do?

If you need to cancel a booking please call Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. Please note that if you cancel the booking on the day of the inspection a cancellation fee is applied.

PRODUCT - BUILDING INSPECTION

What is a Building Inspection?

This is the most common inspection offered in the market by others.  It is cheaper limited scope inspection to identify major defects to the reasonably accessible structural elements and exterior fabric of the building only (example house, unit or apartment).

How long does the inspection take?

An Archicentre inspection generally takes around an hour or so on site; however this is dependant on the size, condition and accessibility of the building.

What is the timeframe for the inspection to be actioned?

We usually complete the inspection within the next business day for a Building Inspection only. This is subject to property access.  A same day inspection can be arranged for an additional fee.

What is the qualification of the service provider?

This is where you need to be very careful as in all states, other than Queensland, literally anyone can be an inspector – with no training, experience, insurance or qualifications.  Archicentre guarantees to use only qualified and registered architects to ensure that you get the very best possible advice. Archicentre Accredited Architects have a minimum of 5 years tertiary education and at least 2 years of professional experience required for registration with the relevant state/ territory Architects Registration Board. They are also members of the Australian Institute of Architects, and have completed Archicentre training in property inspection, defect identification and analysis.

Do I have to be there for the inspection?

No, either the Archicentre Accredited Architect or an Archicentre Customer Service Consultant will arrange the inspection.

What does the report contain?

• A comprehensive electronic report identifying any evident major defects to the structure, external walls and roof of the main building structure
• A 12 month $15,000 Guarantee Offer
• Complies with rigorous Australian Standards, so you will receive the very best quality report
• A detailed cost guide to help you understand the costs of common repair and maintenance items as well as typical renovations and home improvements
• Further general advice on preventative measures, so you can fix and maintain your property and avoid costly future maintenance costs

Do I receive a report after the inspection?

An electronic report will be emailed to you within two business days of the inspection being completed.

Who do I call if I have any questions?

If you have any queries you can call Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the findings.

If there is a defect on the report am I able to back out of my contract?

The best insurance is to have us undertake the inspection before you buy. However, as many purchasers make the Contract subject to a property inspection, particular care must be taken in nominating the specific conditions by which the contract may be voided.  You would need to discuss this with either your Solicitor.

What trades do you recommend?

The Building Inspection Report does not provide specific recommendations for either the trade or professional required to rectify identified major defects.  If your require trade recommendations, you will need to book an Archicentre Property Inspection Report.

What is the difference between a Property Inspection and a Building Inspection?

A Property Inspection is the most comprehensive inspection you can buy.  It is a minimum 200 point + check. It visually inspects the condition of the structural and non-structural elements, finishes, and selected fittings and fixtures of the main house and any attached or detached out-buildings and landscape elements on the property. It identifies maintenance items and minor defects as well as major defects and provides an analysis of the possible cause of the defect as well as relevant repair and maintenance advice. 

A Building Inspection is a limited scope inspection to visually identify only major defects in the seven primary elements of the main building on the site.  People who only want to know if there are any really big issues with the building only generally purchase it.

How do I take up the Guarantee?

You can download the Guarantee from the link found in the report email. Simply read and complete the Guarantee and email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and Archicentre will authorise this and send you a copy for your records.

Do you provide a Guarantee?

Yes the Building Inspection comes with a $15,000 12 months Guarantee Offer. (Please refer the terms and conditions of the guarantee for more information).

If I need to cancel my booking, what do I do?

If you need to cancel a booking please call Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. Please note that if you cancel the booking on the day of the inspection a cancellation fee is applied.

PRODUCT - TIMBER PEST INSPECTION

What is a Timber Pest Inspection?

This is an inspection to identify the presence of destructive timber pests that include termites, borers, in reasonably accessible areas of the whole property.

How long does the Timber Pest Inspection take?

An Archicentre Timber Pest Inspection generally takes around two hours or so on site; however this is dependant on the size, condition and accessibility of the property and buildings.

What is the timeframe for the inspection to be actioned?

Generally we are able to complete the inspection within 2 business days. This is subject to property access. A same day inspection can be arranged for an additional fee.

What is the service provider qualified as?

Archicentre uses only highly qualified and, where required by State legislation, registered Pest Inspectors.

Do I have to be there for the inspection?

No, usually an Archicentre Customer Service Consultant will arrange the inspection. Once the inspection has been completed Archicentre will call you to let you know the findings of the inspection.  You are able to meet onsite should you prefer however there is a small fee. (Applicable only once on a combined Property and Timber Pest Inspection service)

What does the report contain?

• A detailed electronic report identifying evident timber pest activity and conditions conducive to future activity
• Complies with rigorous Australian Standards, so you will receive the very best quality report
• An assessment of the inside and the outside as well as the surrounding property
• A 12 month $50,000 Guarantee Offer
• Preventative advice is offered which will identify areas of concern and provide you with advice so as to help you to fix the problem areas to mitigate the risk of future pest attack. E.g. improvements to drainage or ventilation and site maintenance, etc.

When do I receive the report after the inspection?

You will receive verbal over the phone advice on the day of the inspection, and an electronic report will be emailed to you within two business days of the inspection being completed.

Who do I call if I have any questions?

If you have any queries you can call the pest inspector directly (their contact details will be on the Report) or Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

What trades do you recommend?

Archicentre is completely independent – we do not offer pest control services or treatments.  You can rest assured that you will not be given recommendations for work or treatment that does not need to be done. Archicentre does not recommend any companies, businesses or named tradespersons, proprietary products or treatments. We work only for you and your best interests.  We will recommend if further investigation or a treatment is required and the time period between on-going inspections if necessary.

Does the Timber Pest Inspection Report include white ants?

Termites are often mistakenly called white ants, although they are not strictly a type of ant. The Archicentre Timber Pest Inspection Report will identify evidence of termites, wood rot or borers.

Does the Timber Pest Inspection report include any other pests e.g. Possums/Wasp/Rats?

The Archicentre Timber Pest Inspection does not include pests such as possums, wasps, rats. However where evidence of these pests are found the Inspector may note this on the report.

What are borers?

Borers are actually the larval form of different families of beetles. A number of borer species can cause significant damage to timbers in service, that is, the timber framing and other timber elements within your home.

What happens if I have an infestation?

Where timber pests are found, the Archicentre Timber Pest Report will make recommendations for a suitable course of action.  In many cases this does not need to involve the use of chemical sprays.

What service do you recommend to remove my pests?

Where timber pests are found, Archicentre will make the appropriate recommendation.  Archicentre does not sell pest treatments and has no affiliation with any companies so you will not be recommended treatments that you do not need.

What happens if the pests are found inside my house?

The Archicentre inspection expert will make recommendations as to the next best course of action depending on the severity of the infestation.

What machines do you use?

While the inspection is visual, where appropriate, an Archicentre Qualified Pest Inspector will also use other detection methods to assist in detecting destructive timber pests activity, such as echo sound testing to check for hollows within exposed solid timber members, moisture meters and devices which assist in detecting the conditions conducive to pest infestation, and live timber pest activity in concealed spaces such as stud wall cavities.

Are they dangerous to my dog or cat/other animals?

No, all equipment used by Archicentre Timber Pest inspectors is completely safe for use around your home.  We do not spray or use chemicals, or use any other form of pest control treatment during our inspections.

How long before the pests are removed?

This will depend on the level and location of the infestation if pests are active on your property. You will need to discuss the treatment program with your Pest Treatment Provider if that is what we recommend.

Will my house fall down if I have termites?

This will depend on the level of damage caused by these pests. If live termite activity or evidence of prior activity is identified, there may also be damage in other areas that are inaccessible for a visual inspection, such as within cavities, behind equipment, underground etc. Your inspector will make further recommendations to you once the property has been inspected. 

How do I take up the Guarantee?

You can download the Guarantee from the link found in the report email. Simply read and complete the Guarantee and email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and Archicentre will authorise this and send you a copy for your records.

Do I get a Guarantee with the Pest Inspection?

The Timber Pest Inspection comes with a $50,000 12 months Guarantee Offer. (Please refer the terms and conditions of the guarantee for more information).

If I need to cancel my booking, what do I do?

If you need to cancel a booking please call Archicentre on 1300 134 513. Please note that if you cancel the booking on the day of the inspection a cancellation fee is applied.

PRODUCT - TERMITE INSPECTION

What is a Termite Inspection?

This is a limited scope visual inspection to specifically identify the presence of termites in reasonably accessible areas of the home only.  The inspection will not check for, or record, the presence of other destructive timber pests, and does not inspect the whole property or outbuildings surrounding the home.

How long does the Termite Inspection take?

An Archicentre Termite Inspection generally takes approximately an hour or so, however this is dependant on the size, condition and accessibility of the property and building.

What is the timeframe for the inspection to be completed?

We usually complete the inspection within the next 2 business days for a Termite Inspection. This is subject to property access.  A same day inspection can be arranged for an additional fee.

What service do you recommend to remove my pests?

Archicentre has no affiliations with pest control companies and thereby ensures the independence of its inspection advice. Where termite activity is found, we will make appropriate recommendations to you.

What happens if termites are found inside my house?

The Inspection expert will identify evidence of termite activity.  If damage is evident, the extent of damage is also identified in the Report.  The Report also offers general advice in regards to environmental conditions conducive to termite attack. If you require more detailed advice or recommendations specific to your property you can book a Timber Pest Inspection Report.

What machines do you use to perform the inspection?

While the inspection is visual, an Archicentre Inspector will also use other non-destructive detection methods to assist in detecting termite activity where appropriate, such as echo sound testing to check for hollows within exposed solid timber members.

Are Termite white Ants?

While termites are often mistakenly called white ants although they are not strictly speaking ants at all; they are not from the ant family.

Do you use toxic sprays?

Archicentre Inspectors only use non-intrusive (non-damaging) detection methods.  They do not treat the building or property and do not use chemicals. 

At what time of the year are termites most common?

Once a colony is established, termites are a year-round problem. However, there is an increase in colony expansion activity during warm, humid weather.

If a treatment for termites is done correctly, how long will the insecticide barrier be effective?

With the products today, you should expect a properly applied and maintained termite treatment to protect your home for five years. As environmental conditions can change, and chemical barriers can be easily disturbed, washed away or accidentally breached, we recommend that you get a termite inspection every 12 months.  Many pest control companies provide extended warranties which depend on their regular inspections of the treated property to ensure that the barrier is indeed effective.  You will need to check the conditions of the company's guarantees or warranties and follow their recommendations to ensure the treatment's continued effectiveness.

My next-door neighbour has termites and is going to have his house treated. Are the termites going to attack my house next?

If your next-door neighbour treats his home for termites, the surviving termites will seek a new home and food source.  Termites move randomly through the soil searching for a source of food (wood) so they don't know where your house is exactly and do not recognise title boundaries. Your house does not need to be treated; but, if there are active termite infestations in your neighborhood, it is a good idea to have a full Timber Pest Inspection, not only for peace of mind, but also to identify the environmental conditions that may make your property particularly attractive to the foraging termites.

Who do I call if I have any questions?

If you have any queries you can call Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the findings.

How do I take up the Guarantee?

You can download the Guarantee from the link found in the report email. Simply read and complete the Guarantee and email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and Archicentre will authorise this and send you a copy for your records.

Do I get a Guarantee with the Termite Inspection?

The Termite Inspection comes with a $15,000 12 months Guarantee Offer. (Please refer the terms and conditions of the guarantee for more information).

If I need to cancel my booking, what do I do?

If you need to cancel a booking please call Archicentre Customer Service on 1300 134 513. Please note that if you cancel the booking on the day of the inspection a cancellation fee is applied.

PRODUCT – ADVICE REPORT

What is an Advice Report?

An Advice report is a cost-effective, independent report covering any aspect of building fault or home maintenance of concern to you. For people who want an informed, unbiased assessment of their most important investment.

What does the report contain?

This report will include a description of the problem and a suggested solution(s) and relevant technical information so you'll know exactly how best to deal with it.

How long will the report take to complete?

This fixed fee service covers up to 2 hours of the architect's time including the site inspection and report preparation. You can expect the completed report within one week.