The structure, roof, walls, floors, and major systems like plumbing and electrical. The report also points out any problems or potential issues with the building. The report gives you vital information about the property you want to buy. It can reveal hidden problems that might be expensive to fix.
Reading your report
When you get your report, don’t just skim it. Take time to read it carefully.
- Start with the summary. Most reports have a summary section that highlights the main points. This gives you a quick overview of the properties.
- Look for red flags. Pay close attention to any significant issues the inspector found. These might include structural problems, water damage, or safety hazards.
- Note minor issues, too. Small problems might not be deal-breakers, but they can add up. Make a list of these minor repairs.
- Check the photos. Most reports include pictures. These can help you understand the issues better than words alone.
- Ask questions. Ask the inspector for more information if something in the report needs to be clarified.
Understanding the findings
Building inspectors use specific terms to describe what they find.
- Major defect – A severe problem that needs urgent attention.
- Minor defect – A small issue that’s easy to fix but should be addressed.
- Maintenance item – Something that needs regular upkeep to prevent future problems.
- Safety hazard – Anything that could be dangerous to people in the building.
Using the report in negotiations
Your building inspection report can be influential during a property negotiation.
- Make a list of all the issues.
- Research the cost of fixing these problems. You can ask contractors for estimates.
- Use this information to negotiate with the seller. Ask them to lower the price or fix the problems before you buy.
- Be reasonable. Minor issues are typical in most properties. Focus on the significant problems that will be costly to repair.
Planning for the future
Your inspection report is still valuable even if you decide to buy the property as-is. Use it to plan future repairs and upgrades.
- Make a timeline for addressing each issue. Start with the most urgent problems.
- Budget for these repairs. They are fixing what needs to be fixed to save money for future work.
- Keep the report for reference. It can be helpful when you’re planning renovations or if you sell the property in the future.
When to get a second opinion
Sometimes, you might need more information than your inspection report provides. Consider getting a specialist to look at specific issues.
- The report mentions a potentially severe problem but lacks details.
- You need to figure out how to fix a particular issue.
- The estimated cost of repairs is high.
Specialists might include structural engineers, pest inspectors, or roofing experts hop over to this website vitalbuildinginspection.com.au/pricing/ for building inspections Sydney.
Report doesn’t cover a building inspection
It’s important to know what a standard building inspection doesn’t include.
- Areas the inspector can’t see or access
- Pest infestations
- The inside of walls or pipes
- Appliances
- Swimming pools
- Compliance with building codes
After you’ve reviewed your building inspection report, you’ll need to decide what to do next. Buying the property as-is. Asking the seller to make repairs. Negotiating a lower price. Walking away from the deal. Decide based on the severity of issues found, the cost of repairs, and how much you want the property.
