2001 Volume 52 Issue 8 Pages 709-721
In order to assure a supply of safe and comfortable detached houses, it is necessary to encourage the owners of detached houses to become more actively involved in house maintenance by helping understand the true condition of their houses. The purpose of this study was to clarify 1) the state of the pre-purchase home inspection system which has been quickly gaining popularity in Australia in recent years, and 2) the role played by this system in promoting house maintenance activities by homeowners. The research method consisted of analyzing the results of studies and surveys made from many angles in and around Brisbane, Australia, and the relevant reference materials. We concluded that this inspection system provides 1) a means for disclosing information that supports the prospective buyer's decision-making process, 2) an opportunity to clarify any defects in the house, and 3) important reference materials for working out a post-purchase maintenance and management plan. Therefore it is a system that protects the buyers of used houses and promotes suitable post-purchase home maintenance.
