What’s included in a Pre-purchase Building and Pest Inspection
Buying a property is one of the most significant investments you’ll make in your life. To safeguard this investment and avoid any potential heartache or unforeseen costs, a pre-purchase building and pest inspection is essential.
This comprehensive inspection helps you identify any structural issues, timber pest infestations, or other problems that could affect the property’s value and safety.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- What is a pre-purchase building and pest inspection?
- What’s included in a pre-purchase building and pest inspection?
- Why pre-purchase inspections are important
- FAQs about building and pest inspections
What is a Pre-purchase Building and Pest Inspection?
A pre-purchase building and pest inspection is a thorough examination of a property’s condition, carried out by a licensed inspector before you finalise your purchase. It covers two primary areas:
- the building’s structural integrity
- the presence of timber pests such as termites.
What’s Involved In An Inspection?
Structural Inspection
The structural inspection involves a detailed examination of the building’s 5 key components to ensure they are in good condition and meet Australian Standards (AS4349). This includes:
- Foundation and Footings: Inspecting for cracks, subsidence, and other issues that may affect the building’s stability.
- Roof and Guttering: Checking the roof for leaks, damaged tiles, and the condition of gutters and downpipes.
- Walls and Ceilings: Assessing for cracks, water damage, and structural weaknesses.
- Floors: Checking for signs of sagging or other damage.
- Doors and Windows: Make sure they open and close properly and are free from damage.
Timber Pest Inspection
Timber pest inspections focus on identifying any infestations of termites or other timber pests that could impact the structure of the building. We will look for:
Termite Activity: Signs of active termites, such as mud tubes and damaged wood.
Borer Damage: Evidence of wood-boring insects.
Fungal Decay: Presence of wood rot due to moisture exposure.
Why Are Pre-Purchase Inspections Important?
So, why are pre-purchase inspections important? Let’s take a closer look at what benefits you will get from a pre-purchase inspection with i-Inspect.
Identify Hidden Issues In The Property
Many structural or pest problems aren’t visible to the untrained eye. A professional inspection reveals hidden issues that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs if left undetected.
Negotiation Power
If the inspection uncovers problems, you can use the findings to negotiate a better price or require the seller to fix the issues before the sale goes through.
Peace of Mind
Knowing the true condition of the property gives you peace of mind. You can make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or walk away.
How Does The Inspection Process Work?
At i-Inspect, we offer comprehensive property inspections with fast turnaround time. Here is how the process works.
Step 1: Booking the Inspection
At i-Inspect Building & Pest, we aim to book inspections within 48 hours of your request. You can book directly with us or through your real estate agency. Our friendly team liaises directly with real estate agents to make the process simple and stress-free for you.
Step 2: On-site Inspection
The inspection is conducted by a licensed and experienced inspector who follows the AS4349 standards. We encourage our clients to meet with the inspector on-site to discuss any concerns and gain a better understanding of the property’s condition.
Step 3: Reporting
After the inspection, you will receive a detailed, easy-to-read report within 24 hours. Often, our clients receive their reports just a few hours after the inspection. The report includes photos, comments on any defects found, and recommendations for repairs or further investigation.
FAQs About Pre-Purchase Building & Pest Inspections
If you are purchasing a property for the first time or new to property inspections, you may be wondering more about how long the process takes and how it all works. Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about pre-purchase building and pest inspections.
How long does a pre-purchase building and pest inspection take?
Typically, an inspection takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the property’s size and condition.
Do I need to be present during the inspection?
It’s not mandatory, but we recommend being present so that you can discuss any concerns directly with the inspector.
What happens if issues are found?
If significant issues are found, you can negotiate with the seller to have them repaired or adjust the purchase price accordingly. We may also include information on recommended repair works that are needed.
How much does a building and pest inspection cost?
The cost varies based on the property’s size and location. Building and pest inspection prices start from $450+GST. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Is a pre-purchase inspection legally required in Australia?
While not legally required in Queensland, it’s highly recommended to protect your investment. Purchasing property without an inspection could leave you at risk of costly repairs.
Contact i-Inspect Building & Pest
At i-Inspect Building & Pest, we pride ourselves on our quick turnaround times, friendly and easy-to-contact team, and extensive construction knowledge. Our inspections are conducted by licensed builders with over 25 years of combined experience in the industry.
For more information or to book an inspection, visit our website at i-Inspect Building & Pest. You can also explore additional resources on building and pest inspections at the Queensland Government and QBCC websites.
