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  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Windows

    Window considerations are often underrated by homebuyers when they are planning to build their new home. However with a little pre-planning and thought, correct window selection for your needs can occur. The correct size and shape of windows is important to maximise the energy efficiency of your new home and reduce your energy bills. The […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Roof Sarking

    Roof sarking is a membrane that is fitted during tile or metal roof construction. The flexible membrane is usually installed under the battens to provide thermal insulation and to prevent water and dust penetration in the roof space. In bushfire prone areas flying embers cannot enter this space through the roof due to sarking protection. […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Pool Construction

    Property owners have a lot of choices when locating and running a pool.   And lots of home owners are still installing pools to cool off in during our hot WA summers, even while block sizes are falling.   Pools can be set above or below the ground.    Above ground pools can be cheaper […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Fire and Your Property

    A combination of dry winters and hot summer days can make our bush extremely dangerous, especially in summer. While it is impossible to completely fireproof your home, there are a number of things that you can design into your house and garden to reduce risk. Fire safety can be improved by preventing wind borne burning […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Home Security Systems

    Home security systems are becoming cheaper, much easier to use and more accessible from wherever you are thanks to improving technology, says Daniel Lee from Master Builders.     There are many different systems to choose from and many experienced and approved providers that will select, install, monitor and maintain your system. You can have a […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Independent Contractors

    INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS Introduction On 1 March 2007 legislation came into effect which provides for independent contractors to better manage their businesses in accordance with the terms of their commercial arrangements. Who does the Independent Contractors Act 2006 (Cth) apply to? The Independent Contractors Act 2006 (Cth) applies to all independent contractors if at least one […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Insulation – Downlights

    Special provisions apply for the installation of insulation near downlights. Where this occurs, it can increase fire risk if there is insufficient clearance and air ventilation around electric lights and fittings.  As a result of these concerns, Standards Australia has issued rules which require a clearance of 200mm around lamps and transformers. Any combustible building […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Liveable Homes

    Liveable Homes: Resource for designing new homes A resource has been developed to support designers and builders improve the adaptability and accessibility of new housing designs. Our population is ageing, and the number of people with disability is also on the increase. The ‘Livable Homes’ resources have been developed by the Disability Services Commission with […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Legal Aspects of Home Purchase

    Normally a buyer first comes into contact with the property through a real-estate agent. Remember that the agent works for the seller, not for the buyer, and that the seller pays the agent’s fees or commission for negotiating the sale. This means that the agent’s obligations are primarily owed to the seller, not to the […]

  1. | 6 Jun 2013

    Moisture Penetration of Walls / Damp-Proofing

    Dampness on internal walls may be caused by: Condensation (kitchen, laundry, bathroom — improve ventilation by opening external doors or windows); Water penetration from above; Penetration across the wall cavity (accidental bridging of the cavity by mortar droppings or by an incorrectly installed wall tie or inadequate  flashing around a window or door — difficult […]