FAQ

WHY DO I NEED A BUILDING INSPECTION?

It is now part of the contract that a building inspection is recommended as part of the process in purchasing a home. This has been brought about by the need for people to be “buyer aware” It is very important that you know what state your home is in and having an independent licensed person carry out a building inspection on your home can enable you to proceed with confidence. There are times also where one may be able to negotiate the price based on issues that might be found in the building report.

ARE YOU INDEPENDENT FROM REAL ESTATE?

Yes.  If a Real Estate recommends us then they are fully aware that we will be uncompromising in how we undertake our report and deliver the information to our clients. Our advertising overheads are low as our main source of work is from client recommendation.

HOW DOES A BUILDING INSPECTION AFFECT MY CONTRACT?

Our Building Inspection will highlight any items of concern: maintenance issues, significant defects and/ or faults which need attention. It is important to note that there are solutions to every problem uncovered. We aim to enable you to make an informed buying decision. This could possibly give you an ability to negotiate on price. We believe that EDUCATION REDUCES RISK

WHAT IS INSPECTED IN A BUILDING INSPECTION?

There are strict guidelines for what must be done and looked at on a building inspection. In fact there is a pre-agreement form that outlines what will be done so that the client is aware and has agreed to this. Please refer to this for more information in regard to the inspection carried out.

WHO DOES THE BUILDING INSPECTION?

Rod Hall – as director of the company, it is my reputation and license that are on the line. It is therefore very important to me that you are completely satisfied with your inspection report. I personally undertake the report ensuring the accuracy of the report. No other employees or subcontractors are employed to carry out the actual inspection. This enables our clients to be confident with the process of the inspection and the ultimate report.

CAN I COME ON SITE FOR THE INSPECTION?

Yes, and we would value that. You will be able to walk around and have your questions answered in a visual and informative manner. Our clients have valued that aspect for peace of mind and self education.
We ask that you join us towards the end of the inspection time so that we can give our full attention to the inspection. Once you are on site we believe that “a picture paints a thousand words” and we will outline the positives and negative of your property. We also take many digital photos so that there is a visual record for you to peruse at a later date if need be. We respect your privacy with regards to the matter of confidentiality of the building report. We are polite and courteous to other parties on site but will draw aside with you to go through relevant details uncovered in the inspection alone.

HOW QUICKLY CAN I GET A BUILDING INSPECTION DONE?

Our aim is to attend to this as soon as possible. If there is a vacancy on the date then we will try and fit it in quickly. If the home to be inspected is tenanted then those tenants are required by law to have 24hrs notice of this intention.

HOW QUICKLY CAN I GET THE WRITTEN REPORT ONCE THE INSPECTION IS COMPLETED?

We have been able to work on a 24 hour turnaround in most cases for an original copy. Most people prefer an email version and these can be sent within 24-48 hrs. If we are aware that the inspection is urgent then we are able to give priority in regards to this. If there are other people that need to see the report then we are able, with your permission, to send it to banks or solicitors.

HOW MUCH WILL THE BUILDING INSPECTION COST?

Your investment of money for a building inspection gives you peace of mind. The price will vary according to the size of home, location of the property (distance/time factor). If you would like a quote please contact us. The general price for a 3-4 bedroom standard home on the Southside of Brisbane is $395 GST included. Obviously houses that are larger or at a distance will have a pro-rata amount added. The report is extremely thorough with photos that show the state of the home and provide excellent records. The variation in price for a handover is based on the fact that it is a new home requiring considerable attention to detail.

ARE YOU A MEMBER OF THE QUEENSLAND MASTER BUILDERS?

Yes, and more importantly part of the IBC, Institute of Building Consultants, part of the QMBA. Only a few of the building inspectors in Brisbane, Gold and Sunshine Coast take part in this ‘cutting edge’ monthly self education forum. We believe this gives you more reason to have confidence in choosing us.

SHOULD I GET A WHITE ANT PROPERTY INSPECTION?

Yes. This should be done yearly unless recommended more frequently. We strongly advise that you have this inspection done before purchase.
We can arrange to have a licensed white ant inspector undertake an inspection for you or refer you to a number of inspectors who could help you in a thorough, professional and licensed manner.
They must be qualified to perform the job as per the Australian Building Code and carry the appropriate insurance, ie, professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

DO I NEED AN INSPECTION ON A NEW HOUSE?

Definitely. Whilst we would like to believe that a new home should be free from defects and therefore not require a building inspection, it is often the case that these homes have some serious issues. Whilst the majority of builders and tradespeople adhere to the Building Code and build sound quality homes, it is always amazing how many of these new homes have serious structural or faults. Even quality built homes without the more serious issues can have a long list of cosmetic items requiring rectification. A detailed building report can highlight these areas thus enabling you to have them rectified before the warranty lapses.