Whether you’re buying your first home or building from scratch, you’ll eventually hear the term “building inspection.”
And while it might sound technical or intimidating, the idea is pretty simple — it’s all about making sure your home is safe, sound, and built properly.
Here’s the easy breakdown.
1. What a building inspection actually is
A building inspection is a professional check of the home’s structure, safety, and overall condition.
Think of it as a health check for a property.
Depending on the situation, it can include:
- Structural integrity
- Roof condition
- Plumbing and electrical issues
- Walls, floors, windows and doors
- Safety hazards or defects
- Work completed to the correct standards (if building)
For new builds, inspections happen at key stages
For established homes, it’s usually done before you buy.
2. Do you need a building inspection?
The short answer: yes — in most cases, it’s a smart move.
If you’re buying an established home:
A building inspection helps you avoid nasty surprises like:
- Leaks
- Damp
- Termite damage
- Cracks
- Structural issues
- Hidden defects
An inspection upfront can save you thousands later.
If you’re building a new home:
Your builder follows strict building codes, but inspections are still valuable.
Most builders schedule:
- Internal quality checks
- Pre-handover inspections
- Final walk-throughs
These checks make sure everything is finished to standard before you get the keys. You can also arrange an independent inspector if you want extra peace of mind.
3. What happens during an inspection?
A licensed inspector will walk through the property (or the areas of the home under construction) and look for:
- Structural concerns
- Poor workmanship
- Incomplete items
- Safety risks
- Any part of the build that doesn’t meet code
They’ll then provide a detailed report that outlines issues and recommends what needs fixing.
For new homes, your builder will handle these fixes before handover.
4. Is a building inspection worth it?
For established homes, it’s almost always worth it — it protects you from unexpected repair bills and gives you full confidence before signing.
For new homes, it’s more about peace of mind.
Your builder already conducts their own internal checks, plus a pre-handover inspection to ensure everything is completed correctly before you move in.
Most first-home buyers choose to rely on the builder’s inspections, while others add an independent one for extra reassurance.
Either way, an inspection ensures you’re moving into a home that’s safe, compliant, and built properly — and that’s a win.
