What is a Pre-Purchase Inspection?

A Pre-Purchase inspection provides a report that outlines a property’s attributes, gradual deterioration or wear & tear, significant maintenance required and significant defects so the purchaser can make an informed decision on any home purchase.

The major reasons to have a building inspection are outlined below:

• Without expert knowledge of construction methods and materials, many defects are concealed and difficult to detect.
• Most people won’t get onto the roof, into the roof and under the floor of a home during their own inspections of a property which may mean potentially significant and costly defects would be missed.
• Many individuals don’t have the expertise or time to assess the potential cost and works implications of the defects that are easily identified or obvious.
• Interstate investors may buy property ‘online’ and a building inspection allows them to get independent advice and information about a property rather than relying on the advice of agents who have a vested interest in the sale proceeding.
• You can rely on the findings of a building inspection as they are backed by Professional Indemnity insurance provisions, the advice of a ‘mate’ or ‘friend’ in the building trade doesn’t have the same assurances.
• Prevent financial loss which may occur if you find major defects and safety hazards.
• Assist you to plan for repairs and renovation and their likely cost.
• Determine the rate of return on potential investments given the likely maintenance requirements.
• Aid in negotiations for the sale or purchase of a property.
• Document the condition of an adjoining property prior to major works which may create unintended
• damage.
• Building inspections are particularly critical when considering that a home or building may have Asbestos or other potential contaminants present including mould or lead products which are known health hazards.
• When purchasing a building many people will plan to spend up to their maximum financial capacity to acquire the property. Without a building inspection, these investors and homeowners may then find themselves unable to meet the costs of repair works required to address defects.

Do I own my written report?

You will receive a PDF file to your email. You own your written report and it cannot be re-produced in someone else's name without contacting the author of the report to arrange an inspection re-name.

When to organise an inspection?

The timing depends on your situation and mostly the method of sale. As the findings of a building inspection report may cause you to withdraw an offer you should always ensure that you are informed of your rights and options. Engage a conveyancer or settlement agent as early as possible.

What inspections do THISNZ offer?

• Pre-Purchase Inspection – for the potential property purchaser.
• Independent Building Inspection – for the vendor.
• Healthy Homes Assessment – for a tenant or landlord.
• Methamphetamine Screening – for a tenant, property manager or property purchaser.

Typical clientele?

Inspections are generally ordered in the process of buying or selling a home. An inspection may also be required if you discover that your home has developed a building defect over time or because of an incident.

• Home buyers and sellers.
• Residential property investors.
• Property managers including body corporates and strata title managers.
• Owners of property including government and private agencies and businesses.
• Building and construction contractors.
• Commercial building inspections for builders who are concerned about the impact of construction works on neighbouring properties.