For many homeowners, buying a property is one of the biggest financial transactions they’ll make. A critical part of the process is the pre-purchase building inspection, which helps buyers identify potential issues before committing to a contract.
A pre-purchase building inspection is a detailed assessment of a property’s condition conducted by a licensed building inspector before a buyer commits to a purchase. The inspection involves a thorough visual review of both the interior and exterior of the property. After completing the assessment, the inspector prepares a detailed report outlining their findings, highlighting any defects, maintenance issues, or potential risks.
Understanding what inspectors typically look for allows sellers to prepare effectively and manage expectations to avoid delays or unexpected renegotiations.
Structural Integrity and Building Quality
One of the primary focuses of any pre-purchase inspection is the structural condition of the property. Inspectors will check for signs of subsidence, cracks in walls, sagging floors, or roof issues that may indicate structural weaknesses. While major problems are relatively rare, even minor issues can influence a buyer’s perception of risk. Unaddressed structural concerns can give buyers leverage to negotiate a lower sales price, so sellers can benefit from identifying and resolving these issues in advance to maintain the property’s value and appeal.
Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Inspectors also examine the property’s plumbing and electrical systems to ensure they are safe and functional. This includes a review of plumbing fixtures and fittings to identify defects. On the electrical side, inspectors will assess lighting, switchboards, wiring, outlets, and visible connections to identify potential safety hazards or outdated systems. If problems are discovered here, they can do more than dent buyer confidence. They can also raise questions about compliance and future costs, which may delay settlement or even cause a contract to fall through.
Moisture and Mould
Moisture problems are among the most common red flags raised in pre-purchase inspections. Inspectors will check for dampness, leaks, poor ventilation, and visible mould, often using moisture meters to detect hidden issues behind walls or under flooring. If you’re preparing to sell, it pays to spot the warning signs yourself before an inspector does. Look out for stained walls or ceilings, musty odours, rotting timber in cupboards or flooring, bubbling or peeling paint, and visible mould patches.
Pests and Infestations
Pre-purchase inspections also look closely for any signs of pests, past or present. Active infestations will be noted, as will evidence of previous activity like droppings, chewed wiring, or damaged timber. Inspectors also identify areas that could be vulnerable to future infestations, such as subfloor spaces with poor ventilation, gardens with heavy vegetation close to the house, or damp areas that attract insects. Buyers want the reassurance that a home is not only pest-free now, but also unlikely to cause them problems later.
Exterior and Outdoor Features
Inspectors don’t just look inside the home, its exterior is just as important. Gutters and downpipes are checked to ensure they are clear from debris and directing water away from the property. Pools, spas, and other outdoor features are assessed for condition and compliance with safety regulations, such as fencing requirements. Driveways, paths, decks, and retaining walls are also examined for cracks, uneven surfaces, or structural wear. Even cosmetic issues like peeling paint or damaged cladding can raise concerns, as they leave the property exposed to moisture and pests.
Health and Safety Hazards
Pre-purchase inspections also highlight potential health and safety risks within a property. Older homes may still contain hazardous materials such as asbestos in ceilings, cladding, or insulation. Inspectors will note any suspected presence and recommend further testing. Trip hazards and fall hazards, such as uneven flooring, loose tiles, loose railings, or cracked paving, are another common concern.
How Sellers Can Prepare
Understanding what inspections cover is half the battle. Sellers should walk through their property with a critical eye and tackle any obvious issues, prioritising repairs that affect safety or functionality. Funding solutions like List Now allow sellers to make improvements ahead of a pre-purchase inspection, without waiting for a buyer’s report to highlight issues. With access to up to $50,000, homeowners can cover repairs and upgrades that enhance the property’s appeal. Acting early helps the home meet buyer expectations, paving the way for a smoother and faster sale.