All You Need To Know About Pre-Purchase Building Inspections

One of the most important activities when buying property is the pre-purchase building inspection. Below is a comprehensive guide on the benefits of this inspection and the impact it has on the sale.

When should you Conduct the Building Inspection? 

Typically, building inspections are conducted after the exchange of contracts. Your conveyancer will ensure that the agreement compels the seller to allow you to conduct a building inspection. The conveyancer will liaise with a licenced and qualified building inspector to inspect the house. You will pay all fees associated with the inspection.

What Happens During a Building Inspection?

The inspection will examine the following: 

  1. The condition of structural features such as pillars, slabs and walls. The inspector will determine if the building code was followed.
  2. The presence of pests such as termites and cockroaches and the effectiveness of pest control measures taken by the seller.
  3. The energy efficiency of the home. For example, does the house have sufficient insulation? Does the air conditioner work?
  4. The need for minor repairs on the roof, gutters, windows and doors.
  5. The presence of land contamination.
  6. The condition of the home's drainage and sewer system. For instance, is the septic tank functional? Does the compound flood during rains?
  7. The effectiveness of the building design. For example, are the rooms too small? Does the home have adequate flow of light?
  8. The condition of internal fixtures such as sinks, toilet seats, tiles and showers.

The seller will also have to provide building permits for home extensions and certificates from a licenced certifier proving that all works on the property comply with the building code.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Your conveyancer will assist you in analysing the building inspection report. For instance, which areas need urgent repairs? Roof repairs could be classified as crucial since leaks will make the house humid and expose wooden fixtures to termite infestation. On the other hand, a poorly kept landscape could be renovated once you move in. The seller should be willing to conduct repairs before the contract's closing date.

The conveyancer can also use the building inspection report to ask for a price cut. For instance, if the house needs extensive repairs, the conveyancer could ask the seller to give a discount to enable you to renovate the home. If the house is uninhabitable, you have the right to terminate the contract and receive your deposit.

A building inspection is the best way to ascertain the condition of the home you intend to buy. Your conveyancer should help you organise the inspection and analyse the building inspection report.

For more information, contact a conveyancing service.

Share