In this inspection
The purpose
Understand the property before you buy.
Our pre-purchase building inspections give you an independent view of a home’s visible condition. We look for defects, maintenance needs and issues that deserve closer investigation, then explain the findings in a photographic report.
A freshly painted room or tidy garden cannot tell you everything about a property. The aim is to help you ask informed questions and plan your next steps before buying.
Condition in the context of the home
Age, construction type and past alterations all matter. An older home may need different upkeep from a newly completed property. We consider visible defects in that context.
Cracking, sagging timber and ceiling stains can have different causes. A visual inspection records the evidence; it cannot establish every hidden cause. Where a finding needs specialist assessment, the report recommends a closer look by the relevant trade or a structural engineer.
What the inspection covers
- Accessible internal and external building elements
- Visible signs of deterioration, damage or moisture-related issues
- Roof exterior, roof space and subfloor where safe access is available
- Photographs identifying the location and nature of reported findings
- Access restrictions and any recommended further investigation
Scope and access limitations
A building inspection and a timber pest inspection answer different questions. If you need both, request the building and timber pest package. We confirm the agreed scope when you book.
Confirm whether detached garages, sheds, additions and the subfloor are included when booking. A house inspection does not automatically cover a pool, solar installation, septic system or every outbuilding; specialist testing may be needed.
The inspection is non-invasive. We do not move heavy furniture, lift fixed floor coverings or open walls. Stored items, locked rooms and unsafe access can hide defects. These restrictions are recorded so you know which areas remain unchecked.
Plan ahead
When to book
Arrange the visit early enough to read the report and follow up any concerns before your purchase deadline. Tell us if an auction, exchange or other deadline is approaching so we can confirm availability.
Allow time for any recommended specialist assessment or repair quote. Discuss contract deadlines with your conveyancer or solicitor.
Before the visit
How to prepare
- 01
Provide the property address, sale deadline and concerns from your viewing, such as staining, cracking or previous repairs.
- 02
Ask the agent to arrange permission and access to the home, garage, roof-space hatch and subfloor where available.
- 03
Share earlier reports and details of known alterations. Ask for stored items to be cleared from areas you want checked.
Your inspection report
You receive a written report with photographs, the location of significant findings and practical next steps. Read the access limitations alongside the findings: an area that could not be inspected has not been cleared of defects.
Ask us about anything you do not understand. If access becomes available later, we can discuss whether a further visit would help and confirm any additional fee first.
The inspection is visual and limited to the agreed scope and areas that are safe and reasonably accessible. We confirm the scope and any relevant access arrangements before attendance.
A common question
Does the report tell me whether to buy?
The report helps you understand the property’s condition; the purchase decision remains yours. The report is not a valuation or a guarantee that the property has no hidden defects.
Use the findings to discuss concerns with the seller, your conveyancer and relevant trades. Obtain specialist advice or repair quotes where recommended, rather than guessing the cost of a repair.
See pre-purchase inspection prices, or send the property details for a confirmed quote and available appointment.
A clear next step
Let’s take a
closer look.
Tell us about your property and what you need to know. We’ll help you arrange the right inspection.
info@canberrabuildinginspections.com
BASED IN CANBERRA
Canberra · Queanbeyan · Googong
Bungendore · Yass & surrounding areas