This one step every home buyer should never skip!!
Imagine this…
You’ve just bought your dream home. The location is perfect, the kitchen is stunning, and everything seems to tick the boxes. But a few weeks after settlement—you discover termite damage behind the walls, dodgy plumbing, or worse—structural cracks.
To now fix it…You’re now looking at $10,000 to $20,000… or more.
This is exactly why a Building & Pest Inspection is an absolute must before you commit to any property.
What is a Building & Pest Inspection?
A Building & Pest Inspection (B&P) is a professional report that uncovers any visible (and sometimes hidden) issues within a property—before you legally commit to buying it.
It gives you the confidence to:
- Buy without nasty surprises
- Negotiate the price if needed or walk away from a bad deal.
What Does the Inspector Actually Look For?
Licensed inspectors spend several hours going through the property top to bottom.
Here’s what they typically assess:
✅ Structural Integrity
– Cracks in the foundation, roof issues, movement in walls, or subfloor problems
✅ Pest Activity
– Signs of termite infestation, previous treatments, timber damage or decay.
✅ Water & Damp Issues
– Leaks, rising damp, poor drainage, mold growth, and hidden plumbing issues.
✅ Non-Compliant Renovations
– Unapproved extensions, illegal structures, or anything that could become a legal/safety issue.
✅ Hazardous Materials
– Common in older homes: Possible presence of asbestos, lead paint or other costly materials to remove.
How Long Does It Take?
The inspection itself takes a few hours. Within 24–48 hours, you’ll receive a detailed written report outlining:
- Major defects
- Minor maintenance issues
- Recommendations for next steps
This report becomes a powerful tool to either renegotiate or walk away if needed.
Who Organises the Inspection?
You do!
As the buyer, it’s 100% your responsibility to arrange an independent inspection—ideally through someone who is not connected to the seller or the real estate agent. This ensures unbiased, trustworthy advice.
When Should It Be Done?
Timing is everything.
- Before signing: Always consult your conveyancer first. Ask them to include a “Building & Pest clause” in the contract. This gives you the legal right to exit the contract or renegotiate based on the report.
- After contract exchange: You’ll usually have 7 days (or as agreed in the contract) to complete the inspection. It’s crucial not to delay—book it immediately after signing.
What If the Report Finds Issues?
There are 3 common outcomes:
- Major structural problems?
You may be able to terminate the contract based on the B&P clause. - Minor issues only?
Use it to negotiate the price or request the seller fix the issues before settlement – if possible. - Clean report?
You move forward confidently with peace of mind.
How much does a B&P inspection cost?
A standard inspection usually costs between $500–$800.
But the peace of mind—and protection—it provides is priceless.
When you’re investing hundreds of thousands (or more) into a property, skipping a B&P inspection is like playing roulette with your future.
Final Thoughts
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. A Building & Pest Inspection is one small step that can protect you from big surprises down the line.
At JPSECURE, we ensure our clients never skip this step. We guide you through the entire process—from contract clauses, negotiating with confidence and securing the property.
