Home & Lifestyle winter 2018

Deck Safety H aving an outdoor entertaining area that the entire family can use and benefit from has become extremely popular in recent years due to the various backyard and building theme TV shows – outdoor living is an Australian way of life. If your outdoor area is concrete or paving in other words “masonry” your upkeep and maintenance is low and your likely to live in a reasonably level location. However, if your outdoor area is an elevated timber deck it is of utmost importance for peace of mind and safety that you have it inspected periodically for structural deterioration. In recent years there has been an increase of structurally unstable dangerous elevated timber decks, handrails and stairs. Some of

these have resulted in hospitalization with serious injuries due to collapse. If you are having new work done or simply refurbishing an existing deck, pergola, gazebo, handrail or stairs ensure you use a suitably qualified insured builder and do a simple lic check online to confirm with Department of Fair Trading. Some quick facts that most are unaware of:- - Lic. Builders must provide warranty on workmanship as per Department of Fair Trading – Carpenters do not - Lic Builders must have all valid insurances – carpenters do not - Any work over the value of $20,000 must have Home Owners Warranty Insurance, only some builders are HOW compliant - 95% of decks and pergolas that are attached to your home require Council approval

- Construction that requires council approval that does not have an approval can be issued with demolition orders - Unapproved construction is deemed illegal and in recent times has enabled home insurance providers to null and void insurance policies - If your home is affected by bush fire zones (B.A.L) it is law that the construction materials used are compliant For peace of mind organize a safety inspection if you have any concerns about your outdoor living area. Safety inspections including reports are from $150.00 Incl GST.

Coastal Decks and Pergolas Ph: 02 4365 0097 | Mob: 0419 292 026

Email: info@coastaldecksandpergolas.com.au Web: www.coastaldecksandpergolas.com.au

Decks Screens Pergolas Gazebos No Obligation Free Quote

• Decks/new & replacement • Handrails/stainless steel cables • All insurance work • Screens • Stairs • Retaining walls • Accreditied MODWOOD installer Principal Owners Adam & Lisa Lock

Lic R90280 4365 0097

www.coastaldecksandpergolas.com.au info@coastaldecksandpergolas.com.au

& Lifestyle Magazine | Winter 2018

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