Building and Pre-Purchase Inspections

Pre-purchase inspections are a necessity for anyone looking into buying a home. It is the real estate equivalent of a test drive as it will allow you to know just what you’re in for and how much the property is likely to cost you in the long run. So what exactly is it?

A pre-purchase building inspection is an assessment of the property’s condition that is undertaken by a qualified professional. They will build up a report for you that covers everything you would need to know about a building. It allows you to know what kind of repairs the place needs and can usually give you an indication of just how much it’s going to cost you to do so. This way there is no hidden surprises. This report can also be used as a tool to help convince the sellers to lower their asking price, which can save you more money than you spent on the inspection in the first place!

What do inspectors check during an inspection?

Structural Issues
- They will ensure that all buildings on the premises conform to Australia’s building codes and standards. Giving you peace of mind that the building’s structural integrity is up to par.
Insight to Necessary Repairs
- Should it seem that it is not completely up to scratch the report will allow you to know just what kind of repairs are going to be required before it’s safe for you to move in. It can also give you a rough estimate of how much it is going to cost you to have these repairs undertaken.
Electrical Wiring & Smoke Alarm Tests
- A building inspector can also be asked to check for any faulty electrical wiring that may be a hazard to those living in the building. Once more this is helps you guarantee your safety before moving in.
Identification of Other Unsafe Items
- A pre-purchase inspection report will highlight any other unsafe or questionable areas. For example, it will draw attention to if there are any dangerous materials being used, such as asbestos, or highlight missing balustrades and cracks in the walls.
Sundry Structures Evaluation
- Not only will the main house or building be checked, but a building inspector will take the time to check all structures, including sheds, patios and pools. This can give you the peace of mind that all of these have been built to standard and to local council regulations.

It will give you a look into the boundary fencing and retaining walls and whether these will have to be replaced and if you’ll be the one responsible for paying this.

Inspection Building Reports – Defects

Defects in residential properties are common. If left unnoticed and neglected, it can be very costly in the long run.

The main purpose of a default inspection report is as the name suggests, it highlights all the issues that the building inspector has found; this includes any and all defects and maintenance the property may require so that this knowledge can be passed onto the property owner.

Common defects that are found during residential inspections include:

Cracking – Especially in older homes that may not have been built with the same civil engineering practices we use today.
Structural Problems – This can include both inside and outside the home, covering walls, fences, carports etc.
Leaking Issues – Is there evidence of leaking? Water Damage and how this is affecting structural integrity.
Mould, Moisture & Dampness Issues & Damage.

The report can outline these and more issues that were found on the premises as well as give insight to their risk levels. This can let you prioritise the defects and estimate how quickly you should work on repairing them. Any high-risk defects should of course be repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safety of anyone dwelling or working within the property. While low-risk defects will eventually require repairs, they will not be high priority.

Building Inspections During Construction – Stage Construction Inspections

If you are involved during the construction process of your property, it is vital to ensure everything is on track as the project evolves. Building inspections during the construction phase will allow you to fix any issues as you go along, preventing major delays and costly reversals.

Building Inspections during the construction phase look at elements such as:

Footings
- Trench
- Reinforcement
Slab
- Checked after it’s poured and been allowed to dry. Ensure the dimensions of the slab are accurate and that plumbing has been placed properly. Inspector will evaluate and inform you of any cracks or other significant defects that will affect the remainder of the project if not fixed prior.
Wall & Roof Framing
- Once framing is complete and inspector will ensure that they are to specifications and that they adhere to the standards. Ensuring proper wall placement and that windows and doors are the correct dimensions.
- Tie down straps will also be inspection to ensure they were correctly installed.
Pre-Lining/Lock-Up Stage
- After roof and brickwork/veneer is all complete.
- No insulation, wall or ceiling coverings.
- This inspection will consist of ensuring the general workmanship is up to code including installation of brickwork/weatherboard, roof coverings and frame is ready for insulation. Inspector may also look at services such as plumbing, gas and electrical works to ensure they are located in the appropriate places and are installed according to standard.

Prior to handover, the final inspection will details such as all finished materials and workmanship, including:

Cabinets
Ceilings
Bathrooms
Rendering
Brick cleaning and plastering

The inspector will also check that the layout and front elevation are consistent with the plans and everything has been installed correctly. At this point, the will sign off and approve the building to be handed over, and you will have peace of mind that your new build is up to code and standards.

Here at Epic Projects and Consulting, we pride ourselves on our thorough building and pre-purchase inspections. With extensive experience and a keen eye for detail, any issues or defects will be identified, allowing you to safely and confidently continue with your purchase or construction.

_Resources:
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_{https://www.realestate.com.au/advice/5-reasons-a-pre-purchase-building-inspection-is-essential/}

Building and Pre-Purchase Inspections