Building inspections are an essential part of the property buying, selling, or renovation process in Australia. Whether you are purchasing your first home, selling a property, or planning an extensive renovation project, a building inspection can help identify potential issues and provide peace of mind.

However, to get the most out of the inspection process, it is important to plan and prepare adequately. This article outlines the basic guidelines to follow when planning and preparing for a building inspection in Australia.

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Planning And Preparing For A Building Inspection: Key Guidelines

Understand The Importance Of A Building Inspection

A building inspection involves a professional assessment of a property’s structure and condition. This can include an evaluation of the building’s foundation, roof, walls, plumbing, electrical systems, and other essential features.

It can also provide valuable insights into hidden issues such as mould, termite infestations, or structural damage.

In Australia, building inspections are common when purchasing or selling real estate. Many buyers and sellers also opt for building inspections when undertaking renovations or home improvement projects.

For a buyer, this inspection can help avoid costly repairs in the future, while a seller may use it to identify and address issues that could affect the sale price.

Hire A Qualified And Experienced Inspector

The first step in preparing for a building inspection is hiring a qualified and experienced inspector. In Australia, building inspectors should be licensed and possess appropriate qualifications to perform an inspection.

The Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS) is the peak body for professional building surveyors, and choosing an inspector who is a member of AIBS or other relevant organisations is a good practice.

A licensed building inspector will typically have a background in building and construction, and many are also qualified in pest inspections. This is important as pests such as termites can cause significant damage to properties, and these issues may not be immediately apparent.

When choosing an inspector, ask for recommendations from friends, family, or real estate agents, and check online reviews. It’s also wise to request a written report from the inspector on the type of inspection they offer, including the scope, fees, and timelines for delivery.

Know What To Expect During The Inspection

Building inspections typically cover both the interior and exterior of the property. The inspector will examine the building’s major structural components and report on any visible damage or defects. Here is an outline of what an inspector will typically assess:

• Foundation: Cracks, signs of subsidence, or issues with the foundation can indicate significant structural problems.
• Roofing and Gutters: The inspector will assess the roof for signs of damage, such as leaks, rust, or missing tiles. The condition of the gutters and downpipes will also be checked to ensure proper water flow.
• Plumbing and Electrical Systems: The plumbing and electrical installations will be examined for safety and functionality. Leaking pipes, faulty wiring, and outdated systems can lead to costly repairs.
• Walls, Floors, and Ceilings: Cracks, water stains, or signs of mould on walls and ceilings could indicate hidden problems.
• Pest Inspections: Some building inspectors are qualified to conduct pest inspections as well. These inspections will check for termites, wood rot, and other pest-related damage.

Understanding the scope of the inspection beforehand helps ensure you are not caught off guard. If you are purchasing a property, it’s important to clarify with the inspector whether the inspection covers all areas of the property, including the attic, basement, and exterior spaces like garages and sheds.

Prepare The Property For The Inspection

To ensure the inspection goes smoothly, it’s crucial to prepare the property. This applies to both the buyer and the seller.

For Sellers:

• Access: Ensure that the inspector has unrestricted access to all areas of the property, including the roof space, basement, and external areas such as sheds or garages.
• Clear Obstacles: Move any furniture or items blocking access to areas that need to be inspected, especially in the attic or basement. This will allow the inspector to conduct a thorough evaluation.
• Address Major Issues: If you know about any existing problems, such as leaks or broken fixtures, it may be helpful to repair them beforehand. This will give the buyer a clearer understanding of the overall condition of the property.
• Provide Documentation: If you have had recent renovations or repairs, provide the inspector with any relevant documentation. This may include permits, contractor details, and warranties, which can help the inspector understand the scope of work completed.

For Buyers:

• Accompany the Inspector: If possible, accompany the inspector during the inspection. This provides an opportunity to ask questions and get a better understanding of the property’s condition. You will also gain valuable insights into the inspector’s findings.
• Focus on Areas of Concern: If there are specific concerns you have about the property, such as potential pest issues or structural damage, point these out to the inspector so they can pay particular attention to those areas.
• Allow Adequate Time: Building inspections typically take several hours, depending on the size of the property. Be sure to allocate enough time for the inspector to thoroughly examine the building.

Understand The Different Types Of Building Inspections

Before hiring an inspector, it’s important to understand the different types of inspections available so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Pre-Purchase Building Inspection:

This is the most common type of inspection and is typically conducted when purchasing a property. A pre-purchase building inspection involves a comprehensive assessment of the property to identify any defects or issues that could affect the property’s value or your safety.

Pre-Sale Building Inspection:

A pre-sale building inspection is conducted by the seller before putting the property on the market. This type of inspection helps identify any issues that could potentially cause problems during negotiations or lead to price reductions. By addressing these issues before listing the property, the seller can avoid delays in the sales process.

Pest Inspection:

A pest inspection focuses specifically on identifying issues related to pests, such as termites, rodents, and other infestations. Termites, in particular, are a common issue in Australia and can cause significant damage to the structure of a property if not detected early.

While pest inspections are often done alongside building inspections, they can be performed independently as well.

Renovation Inspections:

If you are planning major renovations or home improvements, a building inspection can provide valuable insights into the structural integrity of the property. Renovation inspections ensure that any alterations or additions to the property are safe and compliant with local building codes.

Specialist Inspections:

In some cases, you may require a specialist inspection for specific concerns, such as asbestos testing, mould detection, or structural engineering assessments. These inspections focus on specific problems that a standard building inspection might not cover.

Review The Building Inspection Report

Once the building inspection is complete, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report outlining their findings. This report should include the following:

• Summary of Findings: A concise overview of the key issues found during the inspection.
• Photographs: Images of any defects or damage detected during the inspection, which can help you visualise the issues.
• The severity of Issues: The inspector should indicate the severity of each issue (e.g., minor, moderate, or major) and any potential risks associated with each problem.
• Recommended Actions: The inspector will provide recommendations for addressing the issues identified, including potential repairs or further investigations.

Review the inspection report carefully, especially if you are purchasing a property. Pay close attention to major issues such as structural defects, pest damage, or electrical problems, as these may affect your decision to proceed with the purchase or negotiate for a better price.

Make An Informed Decision

After reviewing the inspection report, you will be in a better position to make an informed decision. If significant issues are identified, you may choose to:

• Request Repairs or Concessions: If the seller is willing, you may request repairs be made before finalising the sale. Alternatively, you may ask for a price reduction to account for the cost of repairs.
• Negotiate: If you are still interested in the property despite the issues, you can use the inspection report as a basis for negotiation. Sellers may be willing to reduce the price or offer other concessions to close the deal.
• Walk Away: If the inspection uncovers major problems that are beyond your budget or comfort level, it may be wise to walk away from the purchase.

Conclusion

Planning and preparing for a building inspection is essential to ensure that you fully understand the condition of a property before making a financial commitment.

By hiring a qualified inspector, knowing what to expect, preparing the property, and reviewing the report thoroughly, you can avoid costly surprises and make informed decisions.

Whether you are buying, selling, or renovating, a building inspection is an invaluable tool in maintaining the safety, value, and integrity of a property.

Frequently Ask Question

How Much Does A Building Inspection Cost In Australia?

The cost of a building inspection in Australia can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the property, as well as the inspector’s qualifications. On average, prices range from $300 to $700 for a standard residential inspection.

Additional inspections, such as pest or specialised inspections, may cost more. It’s advisable to get quotes from multiple inspectors to ensure you are getting a fair price for the service.

What Should I Look For In The Building Inspection Report?

The building inspection report should provide a comprehensive overview of the property’s condition, highlighting any defects, potential risks, or required repairs. Key things to look for include structural problems, signs of water damage, pest infestations, and any non-compliance with building codes.

The report should also include photos for clarity. It’s important that the report includes a clear summary of the inspector’s findings, as well as any recommended actions.

How Long Does It Take To Get The Results From A Building Inspection?

Typically, you will receive the results of your building inspection within 24 to 48 hours after the inspection is completed. The inspector will need time to assess the property thoroughly and compile their findings into a detailed report.

If there are significant issues, the inspector might call you immediately after the inspection to discuss their concerns. Ensure you ask the inspector how long you should expect to wait for the full report when booking the inspection.