If you’ve never booked a building inspection before, it can be useful to understand the steps involved so you know what questions to ask. It will also help you know whether to book just the building inspection, or include a pest inspection for added peace of mind.
A professional building inspection is a vital stage of the home purchasing process and can also help sellers identify any problem areas likely to impact their selling potential. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, make sure to research the inspection process so you’re prepared for what’s involved.
Step one: Request your quote and make a booking
The first stage is to contact your qualified building inspector and request a quote. The inspector will need to know the type of inspection you’re after, whether building, pest, vendor, or pre-purchase. They’ll also require a description of the property to be inspected to help provide your quote.
Once you’ve accepted the quote and booked your inspection, your inspector will get in touch with the real estate agent to arrange an inspection time to ensure they have access to the property.
Step 2: Comprehensive inspection is conducted
Your building inspector will carry out a thorough audit of your chosen property, covering the interior, exterior and all those hard to reach spaces. A full building and pest inspection will look for any structural issues, infestations, faults, safety hazards, defects, mould and hidden problem areas that will require replacement or repair.
This process should take no longer than 45–60 minutes depending on the size of the property and will allow the inspector to gain an understanding of the total investment required to bring the property up to scratch. You’re welcome to be there during the inspection, but it’s best to leave your inspector to their own devices to ensure they’re able to concentrate on the job at hand.
Step 3: Receive your in-depth report
If you chose to attend the inspection, your inspector will be able to give you a brief overview of their findings, but a detailed report, along with photographic evidence, will be sent to you within 24 hours. This report will provide holistic look at all the identified problems and faults, including any cover-ups or hidden nasties.
The report will also be invaluable when it comes to negotiating the purchase price of your future property. It will give you all the evidence you need to justify a reduced price to account for any necessary repairs. It’s also useful for vendors, as it gives you an idea of the investment required to get your property up to standard and ensure you get the best possible price.
Step 4: Gain professional advice
Once you’ve received the report, the inspector will advise you, based off their years of experience in the industry, whether the property is a promising purchase. They will be able to give you an estimated cost for resolving all of the outlined issues so you can go to the negotiating table with all the information you require.
Just remember, a property may seem in reasonable condition at first glance, but it takes a professional eye to spot the problems lurking beneath the surface. Book your professional Building Inspections Adelaide today.
