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The Pest and Building Inspection – Risks & Rules
First, a Pest and Building Inspection must be carried out by a licensed, qualified and independent inspector. Otherwise you are probably wasting your money. And they don’t come cheap.
And you should be very aware that, at the time of posting, Building and Pest Inspectors in NSW, South Australia, WA and Tasmania do not need to be registered.
In fact WA and Tasmania operate as ‘buyer beware’ states. Perhaps not surprisingly, there have been reports of coercion by Real Estate Agents trying to persuade inspectors to downplay or even hide defects. There are also reports of agents referring buyers to ‘favoured’ inspectors who collude with the agent to present favourable reports. So you need to be very careful.
We suggest:
- Don’t use the agent’s ‘recommendation’, no matter how convenient, persuasive or well-priced.
- Make sure the pest and building inspector is licensed to operate in the same state the property you’re buying is located.
- Ask to see the inspector’s license details and check its current.
What is a Building and Pest Inspection?
A thorough examination of a property to assess its condition and identify any issues that may affect its value or safety.
Building inspections typically focus on the structure and integrity of the property, including the foundations, walls, floors, roof, and any visible fittings and fixtures.
Pest inspections look for evidence of pests such as termites, which can cause significant damage to a property if left unchecked.
A licensed inspector has the knowledge and expertise to thoroughly assess the property and provides a detailed report on its condition.
They will also be familiar with local building codes and regulations, and can provide advice on any repairs or renovations that may be needed.
Conclusion
Overall, a building and pest inspection can be a valuable tool for anyone considering buying a property, helping identify potential issues affecting the value or safety of the property. Using a licensed building inspector to conduct the inspection is a must and may not cost more. Ask to see the license and check it is current.
