How Does These Inspections Work?
After a purchaser has an accepted offer, they are able to do a pest & building inspection if it is a condition of the purchase contract. While most buyers are at wits end figuring out exactly what to do next, an inspection can easily help them figure out what it is that they need to check with the property to ensure it’s a good buy. Typically, such an inspection occurs within a few days of an accepted offer. Buyers are allowed a specific amount of time to inspect the home themselves or have it inspected by a building inspector.
How Much Will Such an Inspection Cost You?
The cost of an inspection varies from one home to another. While smaller houses are cheaper to inspect larger houses are usually more costly. This cost also depends on the region of the country you are living in and the amount of providers. It’s best to call around and cost compare.
However, you might even plan on using a contractor to get your job done. But they may underestimate the seriousness of the job. For instance, not noticing or neglecting minor fixes in time might later turn into major remodeling work.
What Things to Look For When Hiring The Inspector?
While hiring any inspector look for a few qualities. The internet will give you a never-ending list of building and pest inspectors you may hire to get your job done.
Why not go for ones referred by homeowners or real estate agents? Especially talk to those who have purchased properties in the last few years. Once you get some referrals, interview each over the phone and ask them the following:-
- Are you licensed?
- Are you the member of any professional organization?
- Do they have adequate insurance?
- What sort of education and training have you had?
- What type of properties do you specialize in?
- What will be the total cost of the job?
- If hired, how soon can you the inspection done?
- After the inspection, what kind of detailed report do I get?
What to Expect in a Comprehensive Report?
A building inspection takes time – sometimes many hours. So the more time you allow the inspection to be carried out, the more detailed they will be. A thorough property inspection will include a visual inspection of the exterior, interior, roof space, external roof and subfloor of the property. This report will also include areas that were unavailable to the inspector for access.
Comprehensive property inspection reports will include:-
- Identify if the property has any defects.
- A clear picture of how severe the defects are.
- Provide options on how to address the defects of the situation
- Allow you an estimate in regards to the time frame needed for repairs and future maintenance.
A few simple tips that will ensure you have the best outcome for the pest and building inspection:-
- Take your own initiative and ensure the inspections are planned well before the due date. See that there are no obstructions to the process. The premises should be unrestricted.
- Be there. Property inspections are best carried out if you are at the premises and you are there for the inspector to speak directly with you while pointing out issues and mistakes.
- Ensure your solicitor has every update on the process, and they are there to undertake negotiations on your behalf if the property comes up short.
Seeing the property through the eyes of the building inspector, you get to know your future home a lot better.
We hope you have a happy purchase!