Building Inspection FAQs

Question 1

How much does a building inspection cost?

Accepted Answer

From $495 inc GST depending on property type and size.

Question 2

What is a building inspection and what does it include?

Accepted Answer

A visual check of interior, exterior, roof cavity and subfloor (if accessible) to identify defects from minor to major.

Question 3

Why hire an independent building inspector?

Accepted Answer

An independent inspector works only for you, providing unbiased advice and legally valid reports.

Question 4

How long does a building inspection take?

Accepted Answer

About 1–2 hours for a standard 4-bedroom home, depending on size and condition.

Question 5

When will I receive the inspection report?

Accepted Answer

Within 24 hours of inspection, often the same day once the invoice is paid.

Question 6

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Public Liability ($10m), Indemnity and Workcover Insurance.

Question 7

What qualifications do you hold?

Accepted Answer

Qualified carpenter, Registered Building Practitioner (DB-U 28872), Certificate IV & Diploma in Building & Construction.

Question 8

Do you inspect renovations and extensions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Extensions are checked for compliance where new and old structures meet.

Question 9

Do you do termite or timber pest inspections?

Accepted Answer

Yes. These are arranged with Walker’s Pest Management for an additional $250.

Question 10

Do you check energy ratings (6-star and 7-star)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Insulation, sealing and glazing are checked to ensure NCC compliance.

Question 11

What is a pre-purchase building inspection?

Accepted Answer

A detailed check of a property before buying, covering inside, outside, roof cavity and subfloor if accessible.

Question 12

Can I get out of the contract if defects are found?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a Registered Building Practitioner identifies major defects, you may exit under Victorian law.

Question 13

What should I look for when inspecting a house myself?

Accepted Answer

Roofline dips, ceiling stains, cracked tiles, uneven floors or sticking doors may signal issues.

Question 14

Why do I need a new home construction inspection?

Accepted Answer

Even new builds have defects. Stage inspections keep builders accountable and ensure compliance.

Question 15

What are the five stages of a new home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Pre-pour slab, Frame, Lock-up, Fixing, and Handover.

Question 16

What happens if defects are found during construction?

Accepted Answer

Issues are documented with photos and code references, and builders are asked to fix them immediately.

Question 17

What does a stage inspection report include?

Accepted Answer

Photos, plain-English explanations, and references to Australian Standards/NCC.

Question 18

What is a dilapidation inspection?

Accepted Answer

A record of a property’s condition before nearby construction, protecting against disputes.

Question 19

Who needs a dilapidation report?

Accepted Answer

Builders, homeowners next to construction, and councils protecting public assets.

Question 20

What are the benefits of a dilapidation inspection?

Accepted Answer

Prevents disputes, provides legal-grade evidence, and protects both owners and builders.