What is a Pre-Purchase Inspection?

A Pre-Purchase Inspection provides a detailed report on a property’s condition, highlighting wear and tear, maintenance needs, and significant defects to help buyers make informed decisions.

Why have a building inspection?

• Many defects are hidden and require expert knowledge to detect.
• Inspectors access areas most buyers cannot safely check, such as roofs and sub-floor spaces.
• They assess repair costs and implications that the average person may not know.
• Interstate or remote buyers can get independent, trustworthy advice rather than relying on agents.
• Professional inspections are backed by Professional Indemnity insurance, unlike advice from friends or tradespeople.
• Inspections help prevent financial loss from major defects or safety hazards.
• They assist with planning repairs, renovations, and calculating investment returns.
• Findings can support negotiations during a sale or purchase.
• Inspections can document the condition of neighbouring properties prior to construction.
• Critical for identifying hazards such as asbestos, mould, or lead products.

Without an inspection, buyers risk unexpected, costly repairs that may exceed their budget — even on properties they’ve invested heavily in.

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.