PROPERTY BUYER GUIDES
Before you book a building and pest inspection: a buyer’s checklist
A property can look inviting at an open home while still leaving important questions unanswered. Before booking a pre-purchase inspection, make sure the service, access arrangements and reporting timeframe fit the property and your purchase plans.
Here is a practical checklist for buyers in Moorebank, Liverpool, Revesby, Padstow and across Sydney.
1. Confirm whether you need building only or building and timber pest
These assessments answer different questions. A building inspection considers the visible condition of the property within the agreed scope. A timber pest inspection considers visible evidence of timber pest activity, damage and relevant conditions within its scope. A building-only booking should not be treated as a substitute for a timber pest inspection.
ProVision’s building and timber pest inspections start from $495 including GST. Building-only inspections start from $399 including GST. Confirm the final quote and inclusions for your property before booking.
2. Tell the inspector about the property and your concerns
Provide the address, property type, number of storeys and any specific concerns you noticed. Mention staining, cracks, recent repairs or information in an existing report. These details help the inspector understand what you want assessed and whether another specialist assessment may be needed.
3. Agree on access before the inspection
Ask the agent or owner to arrange access and discuss locked rooms, stored items and any known restrictions. Inspection findings depend on what can be safely accessed and observed. Areas behind finishes or blocked by belongings can remain unassessed; read the report’s access limitations rather than assuming every part of the property was inspected.
4. Explain your purchase deadline
Tell the inspector when you need the report and confirm availability before relying on a booking. ProVision guarantees delivery within 12 hours of completing the inspection. Discuss your transaction timing with your solicitor or conveyancer so the inspection and any follow-up investigations can fit your plans.
5. Read the findings and the limitations together
Start with the significant findings, then read the descriptions, photographs and recommended next steps. Ask what needs further investigation and which areas could not be assessed. An inspection report helps you understand the property; it is not a guarantee that concealed issues are absent or a complete repair quotation.
6. Ask questions before making your decision
If a finding is unclear, discuss it with the inspector. Where specialist investigation or repairs are recommended, arrange the appropriate advice or quotation. The aim is to make your purchase decision with a clearer understanding of the property and the remaining uncertainties.
For additional buyer guidance, see the NSW Government guide to pre-purchase inspection reports.