Buying a property is likely to be the biggest purchase you will ever make in your life – so it makes sense to protect yourself from the unknown by getting a building inspection. But what type of inspection do you actually need, and how much will it cost? With hipages you’ll find the ideal building inspector for your needs – here’s what you can expect.

What does a building inspector do?

Building inspectors are professionals who monitor the safety, compliance and quality of properties – both residential and commercial. They are trained and licensed to assess various aspects of a building, including its structural integrity, safety features, electrical and plumbing systems, and overall compliance with building codes and regulations.

For projects that are currently being built or renovated, a building inspector will conduct regular inspections at to ensure the work being done meets the approved plans and complies with relevant building codes. They will thoroughly examine the construction materials, foundation, framing, insulation, roofing, windows, doors and more to identify any potential defects or deviations from the approved plans.

For everyday Australians, you are probably more familiar with building inspectors for the work they do on pre-purchase inspections for potential homebuyers. These inspections assess the condition of the property, identify any existing or future structural issues, and provide valuable information about ongoing repair and maintenance needs.

Another crucial aspect of building inspection is pest inspection. Building inspectors are trained to spot signs of infestation, such as termite damage or rodent activity, which can cause significant damage to the property if not unaddressed.

By hiring a qualified and experienced building inspector, you will get peace of mind during the building, renovation or property-purchasing process. They will guarantee their work is done to the highest standards, which minimises the risk of costly repairs and helps protect your investment in the real estate.

Why type of reports does a building inspector create?

Pre-purchase property inspection

The purpose of a pre-purchase property inspection is to let you know about the condition of the property before you buy it.

Building inspections are normally done before any contracts are signed. They are great for letting you know about any hidden costs that may be associated with the property, particularly around repairs that need to be carried out, and they can be a useful bargaining tool when it comes to price negotiations.

The inspection should cover the interior and exterior of the building, the roof space, underfloor space, the exterior of the roof and the site itself. It should also cover driveways, retaining walls and outbuildings, wiring and plumbing.

Be aware that building inspections don’t usually include an estimate of the cost of repair, minor defects or the detection of termites. If you are worried about termites, you will need a pest inspection as well. The good news is that many professionals offer building and pest inspections as one service.

Completion/defects reports

A completion/defects report is obtained once construction of the property has been completed. It can also be used to check any additions or extensions made to the property.

Dilapidation reports

A dilapidation report is a great idea if a neighbouring construction is causing you concern, as it can identify the damage that the nearby structure is causing to your property.

Owner/builder reports

If you are an owner-builder, carrying out an owner/builder report can be worthwhile and is required if you want to sell your home. The report covers all structural elements of the home as well as non-structural elements, outlining defects or work that was not carried out to a satisfactory standard.

Home owner warranty reports

A home owner warranty report outlines all defects of incorrectly completed work in a property that has been built by an owner builder. The report is required for the owner builder to obtain home warranty insurance.

Pre-purchase building reports

These reports are the same as the pre-purchase property inspection report, with the difference being the vendor or seller gets the report. Vendors will give a copy of the pre-purchase building report to any interested buyer so they can see the condition of the property without having to wait for their own inspection to be conducted.

Expert witness reports

If you are not satisfied with an element of a building you have purchased, you can dispute it through an expert witness report. The report covers defects, sub-standard work, damp problems, termite damage, cracking and other damages.

Fire protection inspections

A fire protection inspection evaluates your property to ensure the fire protection systems are adequate.

Commercial inspection services

This inspection helps determine the condition of a commercial property, usually before purchase. A commercial inspection addresses areas such as plumbing, wiring, drainage, mechanical components, car parks and the structural condition of walls, flooring, roofs and stairways.

How much does a building inspection cost?

The cost of a building inspection can vary depending on various factors, including the location of the real estate, size of the building, how many storeys there are, and the complexity of the property, as well as the specific services required.

On average, a standard building inspection can cost between $300 to $600 in Australia. However, additional services such as pest inspections, thermal imaging or specialised inspections may incur extra charges. According to Rapid Building Inspections, a one-bedroom apartment in Queensland could be as low as $229 for an inspection, whereas a medium-sized home in Melbourne could be upwards of $545, depending on who you hire.

It's best to get quotes from a number of reputable building-inspectors to get an accurate estimate of the cost based on your specific needs and location.

Why is it important to hire a building inspector?

Hiring a building inspector is essential for anyone planning on buying property.

Building inspectors are trained and licensed professionals who can identify problems you may have missed, as well as assess the property’s structural integrity, safety features and compliance with building codes. Their services are designed to not only provide you with valuable information about potential repairs, but also minimise the risk of costly repairs and safety issues.

What to ask when hiring a building inspector

When hiring a building inspector, be sure to ask about their qualifications, experience and licensing, as well as other issues relevant to your needs. Some questions to ask may include:

• What are your qualifications and experience as a building inspector?

• Are you licensed to perform building inspections in this area?

• What specific areas or systems do you assess during your inspections?

• Will your quote include pricing, report format and turnaround time?

• Do you have any references or reviews from past clients you can share?

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.