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Building Inspectors Brisbane

The Best Building Inspections Reports and Services in Brisbane

Updated 18 July 2023

Summary

  • Building inspections are essential for identifying property defects and issues before purchasing or selling. Given the significant amount of money involved, choosing the most experienced building inspector is critical to any property transaction.
  • The cost of a building inspection report varies depending on the size and complexity of the property. Generally, it ranges from $300 to $1,000+ in and around Brisbane per our research team’s quote sampling.
  • Your report will cover the property’s structural integrity, electrical and plumbing systems, roofing, walls, floors, and other features to identify potential issues to give you a full picture.
  • Before hiring a building inspector, it’s essential to ask about their experience and other relevant questions, which we list below.
  • To help you start your search, we list Brisbane’s most trusted and experienced building inspectors with well-established reputations.
  • To help explain everything, MoneyHub’s Head of Research Christopher Walsh walks through this guide in the video below:

Are you buying a property?

  • If you’re purchasing a property, it’s important to consider a professional building and pest inspection before signing the contract of sale. This can be provided by a qualified building inspector, surveyor, or architect, which can be found through the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.
  • While a building inspection will be an upfront cost, it is small compared to the potential cost of buying a property that needs unforeseen repairs. A qualified inspector will know what to look for and will be able to identify any cosmetic improvements that may be hiding faults.
  • The written report will list any faults in the property, whether they can be repaired, and how much the repairs will likely cost. It will also highlight any unsafe or unauthorised renovations or extensions.
  • You can use the report to negotiate the price and conditions in the contract with the seller and develop a maintenance program if you decide to buy the property.
  • Using an inspection service with full professional indemnity insurance is important to protect against any missed problems that need fixing.
  • It’s also important to obtain an independent inspection report and not rely on those offered by the agent or seller.
  • If the property was built before 1990, it’s recommended to consider getting an asbestos assessment done. Queensland Government’s Asbestos website has more details.
  • A professional pest inspection should also be conducted to check for termites or other infestations, given Queensland’s reliance on timber in housing. We cover this below.

Building Inspections Brisbane Costs

How Much Do Building Inspection Reports Cost?

The cost of a building inspection for a Brisbane property will vary depending on several factors, including the property size, the type of inspection required, and the level of detail requested. On average, a pre-purchase building inspection in Brisbane can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000+, with the quote driven by the abovementioned factors.

Important: Some inspectors may offer additional services, such as pest inspections, which will likely add to the overall cost of the inspection. Additionally, the experience and qualifications of the inspector can also impact the cost – more experienced inspectors will likely charge a higher fee for their services.

To give you an idea of the typical cost of building inspections in Brisbane, our research team obtained sample quotes from various inspectors in March 2023. Please note that the prices provided below are for reference only and may vary depending on the factors above:

  • Granny flat or small apartment: $300 to $400
  • Average 3-bedroom home: $350 to $600
  • Large four-bedroom in a rural Queensland area: $400 to $650+
  • Large four or 5-bedroom or mid to large home in Brisbane: $550 to $800+
  • Add-on pest inspection, mould assessment, swimming pool, sinking land, solar panels, structural or foundation damage, or damage post-natural disaster: $100 to $250+ per add-on

Report pricing will vary: For this reason we suggest getting quotes from several inspectors to compare prices and services offered is important before deciding.Building Inspections Brisbane Report Inclusions

What does a Building Inspection Report Cover?

A standard building inspection in typically covers a comprehensive assessment of the visible components of the property. This includes:

  1. Doors and windows, including screens and locks
  2. Walls and ceilings for cracks, stains, and structural soundness
  3. Flooring, including carpets, tiles, and floorboards
  4. Fixtures and hardware, such as light fixtures, switches, and power outlets
  5. Ventilation systems, including exhaust fans and air conditioning
  6. HVAC systems, including the thermostat, air filter, and ductwork
  7. Waterproofing in areas prone to water exposure, such as the bathroom and kitchen
  8. Driveways for cracks or damage
  9. Garage, including doors, walls, ceiling, and flooring
  10. Fencing for condition and stability
  11. Gutters for signs of damage or blockages
  12. Plumbing system, including pipes, taps, and fixtures for leaks or other issues
  13. Drainage systems, including external drainage, for blockages or damage
  14. Retaining walls for condition and stability
  15. Roofing for signs of damage, deterioration, or wear and tear
  16. Roof frame and roof space, including insulation or ventilation issues
  17. Siding or cladding for signs of damage, warping, or fading
  18. Visible framework, including floor joists, wall studs, and roof trusses
  19. Electrical wiring for safety issues, such as faulty or outdated wiring
  20. Unauthorized or non-compliant additions or alterations to the property

In addition to the standard inspection, you can also add on or purchase separate inspections to cover the following:

  • Pest inspection for signs of termite or other pest infestations, which can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. In South-East Queensland, it’s common for homes to have timber elements incorporated in their construction, which can become vulnerable to pest damage and attack. 
  • Mould assessment for signs of mould growth, which can pose health risks and cause structural damage.
  • Swimming pool inspection for condition and safety, including fencing, pumps, and other equipment.
  • Sinking land inspection for signs of land subsidence or sinking, which can affect the stability of the property.
  • Solar system inspection for condition and functionality of any solar panels or other renewable energy systems on the property.
  • Structural or foundation damage inspection for signs of damage to the property’s foundation or structural components, such as cracks in the walls or foundation, uneven floors, or sagging rooflines. This type of damage can be serious and affect the safety and integrity of the property.

Building Inspections Brisbane Questions to Ask Upfront

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Building Inspector

How many years of experience do you have as a building inspector?

If it’s unclear on the website, ask. Because a house purchase is likely the most significant investment in your lifetime, you want experienced and trusted experts familiar with Brisbane building codes and regulations. The risk is too great to place in the hands of amateurs.

How long will the report take?

A building and pest inspection is typically conducted after an offer is made on a home. Both inspections need to be included as conditions of sale in the Offer and Acceptance document. Buyers must arrange for both the building and pest inspections to be completed.

Knowing the turnaround time for the inspection report can help you manage negotiations with the seller or real estate agent. For example, this information can help you determine whether you need to request additional time to complete further inspections, negotiate any repairs or price adjustments based on the inspection findings, or move forward with the sale as planned.

What is your process for identifying and reporting defects or issues?

Understanding the inspector’s process for identifying and reporting defects can give you a clearer sense of how thorough their inspection will be and how they will communicate any issues to you.

Do you use any specialized equipment or tools during the inspection?

Using specialized equipment or tools, such as thermal imaging cameras or moisture meters, can help inspectors detect issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. You’ll also get some understanding of how comprehensive the inspection will be – the more detailed the better.

How much do you charge, and what is included in the fee? Are there packages for add-ons?

Understanding the inspector’s pricing structure and what services are included can help you compare costs among different inspectors and make an informed decision.

Some inspectors may offer bundled packages with additional services, such as pest or pool inspections, at a discounted rate. Asking about bundled packages can help you save money and get a more comprehensive property assessment.

Are you licensed and insured?

This question is important because it ensures that the inspector has the necessary qualifications and certifications to perform the inspection and that they have the proper insurance coverage to protect against any potential damages or liabilities.Building Inspections Brisbane Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a building inspection, and why do I need one?

A building inspection assesses a property’s condition and structure to identify defects or issues requiring attention. A building inspector will examine the property’s structural integrity, electrical and plumbing systems, roofing, and other features to identify any potential problems.

A building inspection is essential to identify potential issues or defects that require attention before purchasing a property. It can help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase and can save you money in the long run by identifying any costly repairs or maintenance issues.

How long does a building inspection take?

The length of a building inspection will vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. Typically, an inspection can take anywhere from 2-4 hours. A report will be issued after that – usually in 2-5 working days.

Are building inspectors licensed and insured?

In Queensland, building inspectors must be licensed and registered with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). They must also have professional indemnity insurance to protect their clients in case of any errors or omissions during the inspection.

I’m a home buyer – when should I schedule a building inspection?

It’s recommended to schedule a building inspection as soon as possible after your offer to purchase has been accepted. This will give you enough time to review the inspection report and make an informed decision about the purchase.

Can I attend the building inspection?

Yes, it’s recommended that you attend the inspection to better understand the property’s condition and any issues identified during the inspection.

What should I expect in the building inspection report?

The building inspection report should provide a detailed description of the property’s condition, including any defects or issues identified during the inspection. It should also include recommendations for repairs or maintenance that may be required.

What happens if issues are identified during the inspection?

If issues are identified during the inspection, you can negotiate with the seller to have repairs or maintenance carried out before finalizing the purchase. Alternatively, you may withdraw your offer or renegotiate the sale price based on any necessary repairs or maintenance costs.

Can a building inspection guarantee that there are no issues with the property?

No, a building inspection can only identify visible defects or issues at the time of the inspection. Therefore, it cannot guarantee that no hidden issues or future problems may arise. However, a building inspection can give you peace of mind and help you decide about the property purchase.The Best Building Inspections Brisbane

Map of Best Brisbane Building Inspections Reports and Services

Our List of the Best Building Inspections Reports and Services in Brisbane

Dedant Building and Pest Inspections Brisbane

Dedant Building and Pest Inspections Brisbane

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Clear and detailed descriptions of work scope.
  • Professional and timely service.
  • Thorough and helpful inspections.
  • Quick turnaround on detailed reports.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, general pest treatment, pre-purchase building, meth residue test & report, annual thermite, asbestos testing & reporting, pre-sale building.

A1 Building and Pest Consultancy Brisbane

A1 Building & Pest & Pool Inspection & Stage Inspections & Consultancy

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Knowledgeable and perform thorough inspections.
  • Responsive and punctual.
  • The inspection report is detailed and the service is reasonably priced.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pest inspections, handover inspections, defects inspections.

Action Property Inspections Brisbane

Action Property Inspections

Overview

What customers like about Action Property Inspections:

  • Responsive and helpful service.
  • Professional, thorough, and detail-oriented inspections.
  • Detailed and informative reports with follow-up support.
  • Highly qualified and trusted inspectors.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pre-purchase inspections, house interior inspections, deck inspections, garage inspections, underfloor areas, allotment inspections, kitchen and bathroom inspections.

Kasper Inspections Brisbane

Kasper Inspections

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Efficient and easy booking system.
  • The building and pest inspection is thorough and professional, with knowledgeable recommendations provided.
  • Reports are delivered in a timely manner and are easy to understand.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pre-purchase building inspections, building & pest inspections, pool safety, handover inspections, property condition inspections.

Brisbane Pre-Purchase Inspections

Brisbane Pre-Purchase Inspections

Overview

What customers like:

  • Thorough inspections and comprehensive reports.
  • Helpful and responsive customer service.
  • Able to accommodate tight time frames.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pre-purchase, city apartment, pool inspections, pest inspections, thermal imaging.

Rapid Building Inspections Brisbane

Rapid Building Inspections

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Timely service by knowledgeable inspectors.
  • Thorough inspections and detailed reports.
  • Professional and responsive customer service.
  • Rapid booking and report turnaround.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pest inspections, dilapidation reports, structural inspections, owner building reports, strata reports.

BPI Brisbane Central – Permanently closed: Flora

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Provides detailed explanations and answers to questions.
  • The agency’s inspections are thorough and well-regarded by real estate agents.
  • Friendly and helpful staff.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, pre-purchase & pre-sale building & pest inspections, pre-auction building pest inspections, building inspections and pest inspections.

QLD Home Buyers Inspection Service Brisbane

Qld Home Buyers Inspection Service

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Knowledgeable and straightforward service.
  • Highly informative and thorough inspections.
  • Personal and professional approach.
  • Clear and helpful communication with clients.

Services offered (but not limited to): Building inspections, roof inspections, garage inspections, safety checks, sub-floor inspections.

Building and Pest Inspections Brisbane

Building and Pest Inspections Brisbane

Overview:

  • Google Rating: ~5/5
  • Address: