Buying a home is a big investment, and it’s important to make sure that you’re getting what you paid for. A pre-purchase building and pest inspection can help you identify any potential problems with the property before you sign on the dotted line.
Why should you get a pre-purchase building and pest inspection?
There are many reasons why you should get a pre-purchase building and pest inspection. Here are just a few:
- To identify any potential problems with the property before you buy it.
- To protect yourself from costly repairs down the road.
- To negotiate a lower price on the property if there are any problems found.
- To ensure that the property is safe and habitable.
How much does a pre-purchase building and pest inspection cost?
The cost of a pre-purchase building and pest inspection can vary depending on the size and location of the property. However, it typically costs between $500 and $1,000.
How do you find a qualified pre-purchase building and pest inspector?
The best way to find a qualified pre-purchase building and pest inspector is to do your due diligence. This means asking around for recommendations from friends, family, or your real estate agent. You can also check online reviews and ratings. The Victorian Building Authority is a professional organisation for building inspectors. They have a directory of qualified building surveyors who can provide pre-purchase building and pest inspections.
When you interview potential inspectors, ask them about their experience, their qualifications, and their fees. You should also ask them about their approach to inspections and how they would handle any problems that are found.
In case of any unforeseen circumstances, you want to make sure that you are protected. An inspector who is insured will be able to cover any damages that may occur during the inspection.
What should you expect during a pre-purchase building and pest inspection?
A pre-purchase building and pest inspection is a thorough examination of a property by a qualified professional. The inspector will look for any structural, electrical, plumbing, or pest problems that could affect the value of the property or your ability to live there comfortably.
Here is a more detailed overview of what you can expect during a pre-purchase building and pest inspection:
- Exterior inspection: The inspector will start by looking at the exterior of the property, including the roof, gutters, windows, and doors. They will check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, leaks, or loose tiles. They will also look for any signs of pests, such as termites or rodents.
- Interior inspection: The inspector will then move inside and inspect the walls, ceilings, floors, plumbing, electrical, and heating/cooling systems. They will check for signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or mold. They will also check for any signs of pests, such as termites or rodents.
- Pest inspection: The inspector will also look for any signs of pests, such as termites or rodents. They will use a variety of methods to detect pests, including visual inspection, probing, and listening.
What happens if problems are found during a pre-purchase building and pest inspection?
If problems are found during a pre-purchase building and pest inspection, you will need to decide whether to proceed with the purchase of the property or you may want to consider renegotiating the purchase price. You may also be able to negotiate with the seller to have the problems fixed.
A pre-purchase building and pest inspection is an important step in the home buying process. It can help you identify any potential problems with the property and protect yourself from costly repairs down the road. If you’re considering buying a home, be sure to get a pre-purchase building and pest inspection.
Here are some additional tips for getting a pre-purchase building and pest inspection:
- Get the inspection done as soon as possible before you make an offer on the property. This will give you time to negotiate with the seller if any problems are found.
- Be sure to read the inspection report carefully and ask the inspector any questions you have.
- Be sure to identify the difference between minor and major building defects.
- If you’re not happy with the results of the inspection, you can always ask for a second opinion.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re getting the most out of your pre-purchase building and pest inspection.
Need assistance with your property purchase? Contact our team on (03) 8590 8370 to obtain legal advice from our expert property lawyers and conveyancers. We are an online conveyancing firm that can assist when buying or selling property.
This update does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. It is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on matters of interest and it is not intended to be comprehensive. You should seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content.
Last updated: 5 August 2023 Article by: Halil Gokler