Home inspection should be an integral part of the pre-purchase process for any home buyer.

Irrespective of whether you are looking to buy a home that is under construction or one that is already fully constructed and has had people living in it for years, inspections are necessary. From the buyer’s perspective this is not just an additional safeguard to ensure that his investment is wise, but also a means to get an objective appraisal of the home’s viability.

Inspection at every stage of construction  

If you are looking to buy a property that is being developed, the best option is to have it inspected at various stages during the construction. When the foundation is being laid, the inspector evaluates the slab, the drains, framework, reinforcement and foundations. This is also the stage when the inspector may check if termite protection is being provided by the builder. The inspector will ensure that the setback and boundaries are in line with the prevailing legal requirements.

Once the framework is up, the inspector makes sure that the room dimensions and ceiling height are being provided as per the plans given to you at the outset. The next stage is the lock-up stage where the inspector verifies that the roof, windows, doors, brickwork, mortar, plumbing and electrical are all in line with established standards.

Before you take possession of a new home

If you are considering buying a brand new home that has just been completed, a building inspector still has a very critical role to play. Before you take possession, he will inspect the tile laying quality, paint, sealing jobs, door/window installations, woodwork and cupboards, kitchen slabs and so on. Most importantly, the inspector will review whether or not the home has been constructed with first grade materials and in line with Australian Standard and the LEP.

You may be unaware of what exactly these regulations and standards imply, but an experienced and qualified building inspector is fully aware of all the legal as well as safety requirements currently in force. He compares your home against these guidelines so that you do not end up investing your life savings in a home that is unsafe or that has been constructed in violation of the prevailing rules. In effect, whether you are buying a home that is already being lived in or you want to invest in a brand new property, home inspection by an ethical and experienced inspector should be your first step in the purchase process.