What to Look for During a Property Inspection: A Complete Checklist
Buying a home is a big deal and a big financial step. Whether it’s your first home or you’re adding to your collection, a thorough property inspection is key. It protects your investment and saves you from unexpected costs later.
This guide will teach you everything about checking a property in Australia. You’ll learn what to look for and answer common questions.
🏠 Why Property Inspections Matter
Inspections uncover:
- Structural issues that could cost a lot to fix
- Pest infestations like termites
- Problems with plumbing, electrical, and roofing
- Whether renovations were done legally
- Potential safety hazards for your family
Inspections give you negotiation power, peace of mind, and help you make smart choices.
🔍 Types of Property Inspections
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Building Inspection | Looks for structural issues, defects, and maintenance needs |
| Pest Inspection | Checks for termites or other pests inside and outside |
| Pre-settlement Inspection | Final check before settlement to confirm the property’s condition |
| Specialised Inspections | Includes asbestos, electrical, plumbing audits, pool fence checks, and surveys |
🧱 What to Look for During Inspection
✦ Outside the Property
- Cracks in walls or foundations
- Damaged roof tiles, rusted gutters
- Rotting timber or unstable balconies/decks
- Poor drainage or signs of flooding
- Fences, driveways, and retaining walls
✦ Inside the Property
- Uneven floors, cracks in walls or ceilings
- Signs of damp, rising moisture, or mould
- Water damage and leaks, mainly in wet areas
- Age and condition of hot water systems, lights, and switches
- Windows and doors working properly
✦ Wet Areas (Kitchen & Bathroom)
- Water pressure and drainage
- Mould or mildew around tiles
- Leaking taps or pipes
- Broken or loose tiles
📋 Inspection Checklist
✅ Use this checklist to assess the condition of a property
✅ Structural condition of walls, roof, ceilings
✅ Signs of mould, dampness or water damage
✅ Operational lights, smoke alarms, and powerpoints
✅ Functionality of doors, locks, windows and blinds
✅ Water pressure and drainage
✅ Signs of termite activity or pests outside/inside
✅ Condition of fences, paths, outdoor timber/decking
✅ Condition and legality of recent renovations
✅ Asbestos in older homes (pre-1990)
✅ Plumbing and electrical safety signs
👨🔧 Why Hire a Professional Inspector?
A licensed building and pest inspector:
- Has the tools and knowledge to detect hidden defects
- Offers an unbiased, professional report
- Can help you negotiate a better deal based on findings
- Often required for certain types of mortgages or insurance cover
Important: Always use qualified professionals with insurance and industry accreditation.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I really need a building and pest inspection?
- Yes. A qualified inspector can find hidden problems like structural damage, pests, or safety issues. These can be expensive to fix.
2. When should I book an inspection?
- Book your inspection before signing the contract or during the cooling-off period. If buying at auction, do it before the auction date as there’s no cooling-off period.
3. How much does a typical inspection cost in Australia?
-
- Building inspection: $400 – $700
- Combined building and pest inspection: $500 – $800
Prices vary by location, property size, and complexity. Always ask for a detailed quote.
4. Can I attend the inspection myself?
- Yes, and you should! You can follow the inspector around, ask questions, and get a clearer picture of any issues.
5. Can I use the seller’s inspection report?
- You can, but it’s not recommended. Always get an independent report to avoid bias or omissions.
6. What happens if the inspection uncovers problems?
- You can:
- Negotiate a lower price
- Request repairs before settlement
- Walk away during your cooling-off period (in private sales)
7. Should I inspect a brand new or off-the-plan property?
- Absolutely. New builds can have defects. A professional inspection ensures everything is done right and no shortcuts were taken.
8. Are pre-settlement inspections necessary?
- Yes. A final walkthrough checks the property is in the agreed condition (e.g. clean, no damage, with included fixtures/appliances).
🛠 Final Tips for Home Buyers
-
- Always read the full inspection report, including any recommendations for further specialist reviews.
- Take note of issues that may not be urgent now but will require maintenance in future.
- Don’t let minor cosmetic issues distract you from serious structural problems.
- Budget for possible repairs or updates before making a final offer.
🧠 Key Takeaway
- An independent property inspection is not a cost — it’s an investment in your peace of mind. Skipping this step can lead to thousands in unexpected repairs after settlement.Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an experienced investor, this guide helps you inspect smarter, negotiate better, and buy with confidence.Got questions or need help finding a trusted inspector? Reach out to our team — we’re here to help you buy smart in today’s market. ✅