Buying or selling property in Australia is an exciting time, but it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and ensure a smooth transaction. One of the most critical steps you can take is to hire a building inspector to conduct a thorough inspection of your potential new home.
A building inspector is a professional who specialises in examining properties and identifying any issues or defects that may need to be addressed. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, a building inspector can provide valuable insights into the condition of the property, helping you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises down the road.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of hiring a building inspector when buying or selling property in Australia. We’ll discuss what building inspectors do, why they’re important, and how they can help you navigate the property transaction process with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced property investor, this post will provide you with the knowledge and insights you need to make a sound investment and protect your interests.
What is a Building Inspection?
A building inspection is a thorough visual assessment of the property that goes beyond the initial “face-value” impressions you may have during your first visit.
During a building inspection, a qualified building and pest inspector will thoroughly examine the property to uncover potential building defects – from major to minor defects – that the average person may miss. As qualified experts in their field, they know exactly where and what to look for to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Whether that’s structural defects to structural damage, termite activity or other safety hazards, a comprehensive building inspection is just basic due diligence!
Using tools like ladders, torches, and specialist devices, building inspectors carefully inspect all visible areas of the property and report on any potential issues or structural deficiencies. This includes identifying signs of mould, wood rot, and moisture that could cause problems down the line.
With a building inspection report in hand, you’ll have a complete understanding of the property’s condition, including areas that need maintenance and any hazards to be aware of. This building report gives you the confidence to move forward with the purchase and know exactly what you’re getting into.
Does a Building Inspection Include Pests and Termites?
When it comes to property inspections, it’s not just about the building itself. It’s also important to check for any signs of pest infestations, termites or asbestos that could potentially cause serious damage in the future. Luckily, Rapid inspectors have access to the latest technology that can detect pests in walls, beams, and other inaccessible places without causing any damage.
By having a pest inspection report carried out, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed decision. If pests are found during the inspection, you can use this information to address the issue before you buy, or even decide against buying the property altogether. And if no pests are found, you can have peace of mind knowing that the property is pest-free. So whether you’re a buyer or a seller, a pest inspection is an important step in the property buying process.
Peace of Mind with A Detailed Report
One of the great things about getting a building inspection is that you’ll receive a detailed report that documents everything the inspector found during their assessment. This report will include photos and a professional condition report, so you can see exactly what’s going on with the property. If there are any areas of concern or defects that need repairs, the report will highlight them and provide recommendations for how to address them.
Whether the written report reveals major defects or none at all, it can help you make a confident decision about purchasing the property. Having all of this information at your fingertips can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to move forward with the purchase of the property. In fact, armed with this information, you may even be able to negotiate a better purchase price and enter into a contract with peace of mind.
When to Get a Building Inspection
When should you get a building inspection? The short answer is before settlement, but there are a few key steps to consider. If you’re still in the process of finding the right property, it’s a good idea to get a pre-purchase building inspection before signing a contract. This way, you can find out about any issues with the property before committing to the sale. If you’ve already signed a contract, don’t worry, there’s still time to get a house inspection. In fact, it’s recommended to have your contract subject to a building and pest inspection. Lastly, a pre-settlement professional building inspection is a final check before finalising the sale. It’s a chance to make sure everything is in order and any conditions in the contract have been met.
Do a Building & Pest Inspection Every Time You Buy
When it comes to buying property, it’s always important to make sure you get a building and pest inspection. It’s a vital step in the process that can provide you with valuable information about the condition of the property you’re interested in. Without an inspection, it can be risky to proceed with a sale, and you could end up with costly issues down the line. Think of it like getting a check-up for a house before you commit to buying it. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and getting an inspection can give you peace of mind that you’re making a sound investment.
How Do You Arrange a Building Inspector?
The good news is arranging a building and home inspection is a simple process. The first step is to find a qualified and trustworthy building inspector who follows Australian inspection standards. It’s a plus if the inspection company is a member of Master Builders Australia. Once you have selected a property that you’re considering, contact a reputable inspection company such as Rapid, and they will take care of the rest. Building inspectors are available every day across the country to help Australians like you to make informed decisions and feel secure about their property purchase.
How Much Does a Building Inspection Cost?
A building inspection cost will vary from business to business, however in Victoria building inspections typically cost anywhere from $200 -$250 for a small apartment (up to 100 square metres) to $250-$350 for an average sized 3-bedroom home in a regional area. Most building inspection services should be able to provide you with a free quote before you commit.
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