How much do you know about a pre-purchase building inspection? If all properties were thoroughly inspected before sale, fewer homeowners would be faced with expensive repairs after signing on the dotted line. The more information you have about a potential property before agreeing to buy, the better. A detailed report from a reliable building inspector will put you in a much better position when it comes to deciding whether or not to agree on a purchase. It also helps to know about any defects so you can negotiate on price.
Qualified Builders Make Better Inspectors
A reputable building inspector should understand South Australian construction standards and codes at a bare minimum. In addition to having a working knowledge of current laws and standards, an inspector who is a qualified builder is also a bonus. When you are considering purchasing a new home, a satisfactory pre-purchase inspection should be a stipulation of closing any sale. A qualified builder is much more likely to pick up on subtle defects that could cost you in the long run.
Detailed Building Inspection Reports
One of the things you should consider before agreeing to hire a building inspector is the scope of what is covered in a standard building inspection report. Before agreeing to engage a building inspection company you can request further information regarding their scope of works. It is to be expected that some areas of the property will be excluded as access to that area may not be safe and accessible. If you are looking to inspect hard to reach areas, enquire about the availability of using modern techniques such as drones which can aid in providing you with a more detailed report.
Seeking Assurances
There is no such thing as a guaranteed, perfect building inspection. However, you can gain peace of mind by dealing with a company that carries appropriate relevant insurance. One of the most important types of cover for building inspectors is professional indemnity insurance. When you trust a building inspection company to provide you with a detailed and accurate report on the condition of a property, you want to know that you are getting a report that has the backing of suitably insured coverage. If major structural defects are left out or misreported, it is the homeowner who will ultimately end up footing the bill if the building inspector or inspection company is not insured. You can attempt to take the company to court but, even if you win, you may never see the compensation that you are entitled to receive if the supplier is not covered by insurance.
Fair Trade South Australia
The South Australia government website is a great resource for finding information on buying a new home. The site includes a specific section on home inspection along with general advice that covers almost every conceivable circumstance. Make sure to arm yourself with as many tools as you possibly can before agreeing to purchase any property. Buying a home is potentially a lifetime investment, so do not rush in – no matter how much you fall in love from the first viewing.
If you are in South Australia and would like to know more about a pre-purchase building inspection from Houspect, call today to speak to a qualified professional. We are a national provider of expert construction inspections with a focus on local service.
