Building and Pest Inspections Explained

Organising a building and pest inspection is a key step for buyers and investors looking to purchase a property.

Why Do I Need an Inspection?

​One of the conditions of the sales contract states 'Subject to a Building and Pest Inspection'. The purpose of the inspection is to check the property for major defects that may find the building to not be in a solid state. From this information you can assess if the sale value being asked is ok. In effect, it protects the buyer and gives them options to negotiate if required for a win-win sale.

It's important that buyers seek out a qualified and licensed Inspector to carry out the work and provide accurate and important information that gives them peace of mind in the decision making process.​

Building Inspection Checklist

Your Inspector will check the building structure is sound and free from wood rot, termite activity and any termite management systems that may be installed. The house is checked for any high moisture readings especially surrounding the wet areas like bathrooms. Other areas that are checked include the yard and exterior of the building, internal rooms and ceiling roof void.

The inspection will be conducted to Australian Standards with the findings fully documented.

What's Not Checked?

The inspection will be not check for general maintenance items such as poor paint work, damaged carpets and flooring, door handles and fixtures. In addition, the Inspector will not check the plumbing, electrical and gas installations as they are not qualified to do so. However, any obvious issues will be reported and further investigations will be required.

In addition, your Inspector will not check behind furniture, vanities/kitchen cabinets, under floor coverings as the Australian Standards does not allow us to remove anything under a pre purchase inspection.

The owner’s written permission is required to move things or have them moved prior to the inspection.

How Long Does An Inspection Take?

This will depend on the size of the home however, it will typically be completed in 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

What Do I Do When I Receive The Report?

You will be asked to read the report in full. If you have any questions about the findings, we recommend that you contact your Inspector to clarify these.

What Qualifications Should an Inspector Have?

Your Inspector should be fully licensed by the local authority as a licenced builder and building inspector - for example QBCC in Queensland.

In addition, they should be accredited as a Timber Pest Technician and possess a state based health license - for example Queensland Health Health License and QBCC licence to practice.

Should I Prepare for the Inspection?

We recommend that you arrange the agent to move any furniture that may be against walls in the home. By law, the Inspector is not permitted to move such items and can only work within the space provided.

To arrange an inspection, contact your licensed experts DedAnt Building and Pest Inspections for a quote.