A LOOK INTO PROPERTY INSPECTION: WHAT ACTUALLY QUALIFIES AS PROFESSIONAL
A pre-purchase building inspection is one of the most important reports someone can have when buying a property. By skipping a pre-purchase inspection, the chances of encountering infrastructural, plumbing or pest problems is significantly higher. Having a mental building inspection checklist while visiting properties itself is one thing, but what about when things don’t quite go to plan? What about the legal ramifications of using a building inspector who cuts corners, or only does the bare minimum? What considerations should be made when choosing the right building inspector for property acquisition? These simple tips will help in choosing a building and pest inspector who will get the job done thoroughly and correctly.
Always read the contract
Don’t skim over contracts. They are legally binding documents to be taken seriously with great consideration; this includes reading the terms and conditions. Ensure all the terms and conditions of the contract are understood before signing.
Ask what your building inspection will include
Find out exactly what is being purchased to ensure the best value for money. Some building inspectors will provide the bare minimum, so don’t be fooled by a budget option. Cheap and cheerful building inspectors often make their mark on buyers due to their jolly attitudes; however, their approach can often exclude important problems within the property, something they tried to hide from the buyer. Pre purchase inspectors who pride themselves on going above and beyond for clients and who offer a myriad of pre-purchase inspection options are highly recommended.
Look for testimonials from previous clients
Referrals are incredibly important when working with someone you aren’t familiar with, an experienced building inspector should have plenty of testimonials to share. An in depth read of their website should include client testimonials, if they have them. Genuine testimonials will give specific examples of jobs completed and what customers liked about the experience of doing business with the inspector. If an inspector is reputable, the testimonials will reflect their workmanship.
Know who you’re working with
What are the qualifications of the person conducting the building and pest inspection? How long they’ve been in the industry? Are they reputable and trustworthy? If the pre-purchase inspection company is transparent and can share their level of experience accurately it's a sign that the quality of their services will live up to their word.
There is an Australian Standard for building inspections that inspectors should use as a minimum standard. Making sure your inspector is well versed in every aspect of building inspections is a must. Experience in the industry is a clear indicator of an inspector's level of expertise, the more years in the market often the more capable the business.
Considering these points and conducting research into service providers is always necessary when entrusting a third party in diagnosing an investment as expensive as a property.
