When to get a Building and Pest Inspection
A building and pest inspection is an important step in the buying process. It ensures you know exactly what you’re buying and gives you the confidence to make a purchase decision. Either to proceed with the property purchase or cease negotiations based on the findings of the building and pest report. After all, buying a house is likely to be one of the biggest investments in your lifetime. You want to get it right.
What is a building and pest inspection?
The building and pest inspection is combined visual inspection that assesses the true condition of a property. It looks at building defects, safety hazards, maintenance issues and if there’s any evidence of termite activity or damage. This is important information to know before settling on the property as you don’t want to get stuck with a defunct house or defects that cost thousands to repair.
When to get a building and pest inspection?
Ideally, the right time to get the inspection is before you’ve signed the contract. However, this isn’t always possible in a fast-moving market or for a house that is popular. In this case, it’s important to ensure the contract of sale is subject to a building and pest clause. This will enable you to withdraw from buying the house if the house doesn’t pass muster.
Typically, buyers are given 7-14 days to complete the inspection. This gives you time to arrange the inspection, read through the building and pest report and notify the relevant parties should you wish to withdraw.
Who arranges the pest and building inspection?
Generally, the buyer arranges (and pays) for the building and pest. At Local Inspections, we can contact the agent on your behalf to coordinate access to the property. This means you only need to make the booking with us, and we will arrange the rest. This is often best as there can sometimes be some back-and-forth between the agent, especially if there’s tenants living at the property.
How much does the inspection cost?
The inspection cost varies depending on the size, location and condition of the property. This cost is usually paid for by the buyer and isn't included in the loan.
At Local Inspections, our pest and building inspection prices typically are:
- $340 - $380 for a small apartment (up to 3 bedrooms)
- $440 - $470 for 2-3 bedroom townhouse or house
- $490 for an average sized 4 bedroom house
- $520 - $600 for a 5-6 bedroom house
There may be additional costs if the property has extra living areas, kitchens, bathrooms, studio / granny flat or if the house is a duplex.
We pride ourselves on offering competitive rates whilst never compromising on the quality of the inspection.
Have peace of mind with Local Inspections
With all our building and pest inspectors having over 30 years of experience, you can trust that you're getting a quality inspection.