The 4 essentials for a thorough property inspection
You're walking down the street when you see it – the perfect house. It's charming, quaint and, okay, maybe a bit small, but you're sure you could extend it later. But before you sign on the dotted line, consider whether your dreams will hold up under a little scrutiny.
One of the most important things you can do before buying a house is to get a property inspection. A property inspection is a thorough examination of the property's condition, and it can help you identify any potential problems.
Here are four things to consider when getting a property inspection:
1. The inspector's qualifications.
Make sure the inspector you hire is qualified and experienced. They should be a licensed builder or surveyor, and they should have a good understanding of the Australian standards for building inspection reports.
When choosing a property inspector, it is important to ask about their qualifications and experience. You should also ask about the scope of the inspection, the cost, and the report that will be provided.
It is also a good idea to get recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals. Once you have found a few potential inspectors, you can schedule interviews to get a feel for their personality and approach.
2. The scope of the inspection.
The inspector should check the property for structural damage, damp issues, compliance problems, and anything else that might prove to be a headache down the track. They should also identify damage caused by termites, but a building inspection is separate to a pest inspection.
The scope of the inspection will vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. However, it is important to make sure that the inspector will check all of the important areas. This includes the roof, the foundation, the walls, the floors, the plumbing, the electrical wiring, and the appliances.
It is also a good idea to ask the inspector about any specific areas that you are concerned about. For example, if you have children, you may want the inspector to pay special attention to the safety of the property.
3. The cost of the inspection.
The cost of a property inspection will vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. However, it is a worthwhile investment, as it can save you a lot of money in the long run.
The cost of a property inspection typically ranges from $500 to $1,500. However, it is important to remember that this is a one-time cost that could save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.
4. The report.
The inspector should provide you with a detailed report of their findings. This report should include photographs and descriptions of any problems they found.
The report should also include recommendations for repairs or maintenance. This information can be helpful when you are negotiating the purchase price of the property.
In addition to the four items mentioned above, there are a few other things you should consider before buying a house. These include:
Your wish list. What are the essential features you need in a home? Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves.
Ongoing maintenance. How much work will the property need? Be realistic about the amount of maintenance you are willing to do.
Neighbouring properties. If you are planning on extending or subdividing, you need to check with the council about any restrictions.
With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect home for you. And don't forget to get a property inspection!
Here are some additional tips for getting a property inspection:
Get the inspection done before you make an offer on the property. This will give you time to negotiate the purchase price based on any problems that the inspector finds.
Be present during the inspection. This will give you a chance to ask questions and learn more about the property's condition.
Get the report in writing. This will give you a record of the inspector's findings and recommendations.
Getting a property inspection is an important step in the home buying process. It can help you identify any potential problems with the property, and it can give you peace of mind knowing that you are buying a sound investment.
Want to learn more? Talk to our brokers today!
