Why a Building Inspection is Essential Before Buying Your Home

Your home is likely one of the biggest investments you'll ever make, so it’s crucial to ensure you're buying a property that’s structurally sound and free from hidden issues that could cost you down the track. While a place may look perfect on the surface, there could be costly problems lurking beneath.

This is where a pre-purchase building and pest inspection can be a game-changer. Bringing in a professional to assess the property ensures that you're aware of any serious issues before you sign on the dotted line, potentially saving you from expensive surprises.

What’s Involved in a Pest and Building Inspection?

A pre-purchase building inspection is conducted by a qualified expert, often a licensed builder, who physically inspects the property for any significant structural defects. This includes issues such as faulty foundations, rising damp, or other structural concerns that can be costly to repair.

While a building inspection on its own can reveal a lot, you can often add a pest inspection for a small additional fee. This can alert you to any hidden infestations of pests such as termites or borers, which can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

Common defects identified during these inspections include:

• Active termite infestations
• Poor construction quality
• Faulty wiring or plumbing, which may need to be replaced for safety reasons

These problems are often difficult to spot by the untrained eye and could leave you facing unexpected repair bills after purchase.

What is the Cost of a Building and Pest Inspection?

While buying a home comes with various upfront costs, forking out for a pest and building inspection is a wise investment in the long run. The cost of these inspections can vary depending on the service and the size of the property, but here’s a general guide:

• According to HiPages, a building inspection typically costs between $200 and $300 for smaller properties and around $400 to $500 for an average-sized home.
• A pest inspection generally costs an additional $100 to $150.

While it may seem like an extra expense, consider it an insurance policy against unexpected costs that could arise once you own the property.

What If the Pest and Building Report Comes Back Negative?

If the inspection report uncovers problems, don’t panic—it doesn’t necessarily mean the deal is off. Instead, use the findings as a negotiating tool. If you’re still keen on the property, you can ask for a lower price to account for the cost of repairs.

Before making a formal offer, it’s wise to gather quotes from builders or pest control experts for the necessary fixes, so you can negotiate confidently and ensure you’re not caught off guard by the repair costs.

Alternatively, if the issues are too severe, you may decide to walk away and continue your search for a better property.

Why Choose Osinski Finance?

At Osinski Finance, we understand the complexities of purchasing a home and the importance of being well-informed about the property you’re considering. With our expert advice, we can guide you through the process of making informed decisions before committing to a purchase. Whether it’s arranging for your pre-purchase inspections or discussing other crucial checks, we're here to help ensure you get the best deal on your new home.

Don't let hidden issues turn your dream home into a nightmare—talk with us today for expert advice on property inspections and more.

Making the right choice now can save you money and hassle in the future.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute tax or financial advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.