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Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make in their lifetime. It's an exciting time, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming, especially if you're not familiar with the process. One of the most important steps in buying a property is getting a building inspection done. In this article, we'll explore what building inspections are, why they're important, and what you need to know about getting one done in Melbourne.
What is a Building Inspection?
A building inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition, carried out by a qualified professional. The inspector will visually examine the property from top to bottom, looking for any defects or issues that could affect its value, safety, or liveability.
During a building inspection, the inspector will check things like:
- The structure of the property, including the roof, walls, and foundation
- The electrical and plumbing systems
- The heating and cooling systems
- The windows, doors, and insulation
- The presence of any pests or damage caused by pests
- Any signs of moisture or water damage
- The condition of the fixtures and fittings, such as the kitchen and bathroom
The inspector will then provide a detailed report outlining any issues they have found, along with recommendations for repairs or further investigations.
Why are Building Inspections Important?
Building inspections are important for several reasons:
1. They can identify potential safety hazards or structural issues that could be expensive to repair down the line.
2. They can help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate a lower price based on the cost of any necessary repairs.
3. They can give you peace of mind knowing that you're making a sound investment.
Without a building inspection, you could be buying a property with hidden defects that could cost you thousands of dollars to fix. You could also be putting your safety and the safety of your family at risk if there are any major structural or electrical issues.
Types of Building Inspections in Melbourne
There are several different types of building inspections available in Melbourne, depending on the type of property you're buying and your specific needs. Some of the most common types include:
Pre-Purchase Building Inspections
A pre-purchase building inspection is the most common type of inspection, carried out before you commit to buying a property. This type of inspection is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the property's condition and identify any significant defects or issues.
New Home Inspections
If you're buying a newly built home, you may need to get a new home inspection done at various stages of construction to ensure that the work is being carried out to the necessary standards and specifications.
Pest Inspections
A pest inspection is often carried out alongside a building inspection to check for any signs of termites, wood borers, or other pests that could cause damage to the property.
Asbestos Inspections
If you're buying an older property built before 1990, you may need to get an asbestos inspection done to identify any asbestos-containing materials that could pose a health risk.
Choosing a Building Inspector in Melbourne
When choosing a building inspector in Melbourne, it's important to do your research and select someone who is qualified, experienced, and reputable. Here are some things to look for:
- Registered building practitioner with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA)
- Holds professional indemnity insurance
- Conducts inspections in accordance with Australian Standard AS4349.1
- Provides a detailed written report with photos
- Has specific experience with the type of property you are buying
- Allows you to attend the inspection and ask questions
- Offers a verbal summary and discussion of the report findings
It's also a good idea to get quotes from several different inspectors and compare their services and pricing. Remember, a comprehensive building inspection may cost more upfront but could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
The Building Inspection Process
The building inspection process in Melbourne is relatively straightforward:
1. Contact a qualified building inspector to arrange an inspection of the property you are interested in buying.
2. The inspector will liaise with the real estate agent or seller to arrange a suitable time for the inspection, which usually takes 1-2 hours.
3. The inspector will carry out a visual inspection of the property, taking notes and photos as they go.
4. Within 24 hours of the inspection, the inspector will provide you with a detailed written report outlining any issues or defects they have identified, along with recommendations for repairs or further investigations.
5. Review the report with your conveyancer or lawyer and decide on any further actions, such as negotiating with the seller or arranging for specialist inspections or quotes for repairs.
It's important to note that a building inspection report is a visual inspection only and may not cover every defect or issue with the property. The inspector also won't provide quotes for repairs or make decisions on your behalf - their role is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the property.
Conclusion
Getting a building inspection done is a crucial step in the process of buying a property in Melbourne. It can help you identify any potential issues or defects with the property, negotiate a better price, and make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase.
When choosing a building inspector, it's important to select someone who is qualified, experienced, and reputable. And remember, while a building inspection may cost money upfront, it could save you thousands of dollars in repairs and heartache down the line.
If you're thinking about buying a property in Melbourne and need advice on building inspections or the conveyancing process, contact Pearson Chambers Conveyancing today. Their experienced team can provide you with a free Section 32 contract review and answer any questions you may have about buying property in Victoria. Call them on 03 9969 2405 or email contact@pearsonchambers.com.au to find out more.