Inspections are a crucial step in homeownership, whether you’re purchasing a pre-established home, building your own from the ground up, or maintaining an investment property. But there may be ways that you can get even more value from your inspection. A little preparation and understanding of the process can go a long way.
Throughout this blog, we’ll touch on some common misconceptions about building inspections, and share what building inspectors can and can’t do, offer tips on how to prepare for an inspection, and outline what happens after you receive your report. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and ensure you feel confident in your inspection process from start to finish.
If you’re unsure when you need an inspection, check out our blog ‘When to Engage an Independent Building Inspector’.
Common Misconceptions About Building Inspections
There’s a lot of information out there about building inspections, some of it spot on, and some a little misleading or confusing. A few common misunderstandings we’ve heard, include:
- “A building inspection is a pass-or-fail test.” | While this may be true in some cases, it doesn’t necessarily mean a sale should fall through or that a home needs to be demolished. It’s really about gaining a clear, detailed understanding of the property’s condition so you can make informed decisions. Often, the issues are straightforward and can be resolved cost-effectively. You just need a qualified professional to pinpoint the problem and recommend the right solution, or in the case of a new build refer it to the builder for rectification before it becomes a bigger problem down the track.
- “Inspectors can see everything, even behind walls.” | While our inspectors are highly trained and experienced, we can only assess what is visible and accessible at the time of inspection.To ensure the most thorough assessment, make sure all relevant areas—such as storage rooms or roof space access points—are clean, clear, and free of any obstructions or hazards prior to the inspection.
- “All inspections cover the same things.” | Not all inspections are the same. A Pre-Purchase Inspection differs from a Defect Inspection or a Practical Completion Inspection. Choosing the right one for your needs ensures you get the insights you’re looking for. To clearly understand which option is best for you, reach out to our friendly team to discuss the details, and they can guide you as to which is your best option.
What Inspectors Can and Can’t Do
While we offer an array of different inspections which contain various elements, the items mentioned below are a general guide as to what building inspectors can and cannot do whilst on-site during an inspection.
What Inspectors Can Do:
- Identify major defects and safety concerns.
- Provide a thorough visual inspection of accessible areas of the property.
- Provide a detailed, easy-to-understand report with photos and explanations.
- Offer recommendations on next steps, including further specialist assessments where necessary.
What Inspectors Can’t Do:
- Break through/open up walls, ceilings, or floors to look inside.
- Move furniture items, disrupt stored items or personal belongings.
- Certify plumbing or electrical (although we can recommend trusted licensed professionals for these areas).
- Guarantee rectification works. This needs to be signed off by the trade/builder who completed the work.
Ways You Can Prepare for an Inspection
Of course, you want to make sure you get the most out of your inspection and that everything runs smoothly. There are a few ways that you can help to prepare, such as:
- Ensure Easy Access to All Areas | If possible/applicable, make sure areas such as the roof space, subfloor, and any locked rooms are easily accessible. This allows us to provide a more thorough inspection.
- Clear Away Obstructions | While we’re unable to move large furniture items, having clear access to key areas (like under sinks and around windows) helps us do our job efficiently.
- Contain Pets | We love meeting furry new friends, but for their safety and ours, it’s best to ensure pets are in a separate, secure area during the inspection.
- Be Aware of Inspection Limitations | It’s important to understand what’s included in your chosen inspection to avoid confusion. If you have any specific concerns, let us know when booking your inspection so we can guide you to the right inspection service.
What Happens After Your Report is Delivered to You
Receiving your inspection report is just the beginning. We don’t just hand over the report and leave you to figure it out on your own, we’re here to guide you through the next steps. We can help you:
- Understand Your Report | If anything in your report is confusing, and you’d like further clarification, we’re happy to walk you through the findings.
- Liaising with Your Builder or Agent | If you’re building or buying a home, our inspectors at Home Integrity can liaise with your builder/contractor/real estate agent on your behalf (at your choice) to discuss any faults which require rectification.
- Ongoing Support | Even after your inspection is complete, we’re here to help with any follow-up questions you may have. Your peace of mind is our priority.
Perth’s Trusted Partner in Building Inspections
At Home Integrity, we’re not just about ticking boxes, we’re about providing clarity, confidence, and expert guidance to help you make informed decisions about your home. Whether you’re buying, building, or maintaining your property, we’re here to ensure you have all the insights and information you need.
Have an upcoming inspection or questions about your report? Reach out to our friendly team today.
