Pre-Purchase Building Inspections
Your In-Depth Property Health Check
Overview
It’s good to know your future home is solid.
Before you settle on your new home, let our experienced Registered Builders be your second set of eyes. Whether you simply need to satisfy the REIWA Structural Annexure conditions or want a more comprehensive assessment with our Structural Plus inspection – covering moisture testing and roof exteriors – we’re here to help. We deliver fast, independent reports without the jargon, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the property’s structural integrity before you settle.
Plans and Pricing
-
Termite and Timber Pest
-
Electrical, Plumbing and Gas
-
Swimming Pool Inspection
Structural Plus
Our Structural Plus inspection is our most popular and provides a broader scope. It includes everything from the structural inspection as well as non-structural elements like roof cover and moisture testing.
- Everything from Structural Inspection
- Stormwater drainage
- Moisture testing of the walls adjacent to the showers
- Roof cover & all roof penetrations including gutter, downpipes & flashings
- Photos of areas inspected
- Photos and required action for defects and issues
- Same day reporting
- Full inspector debrief
Structural Components
- Footings & floors
- Wall structure
- Piers & columns
- Lintels
- Sub-floor
- Roof frame & ceiling frame structures
Exterior
- Main structure retaining walls
- All accessible retaining walls
- Balconies & balustrading
- Roof exterior
- Eaves, flashings, gutters & downpipes
- Roof penetrations
- Stormwater drainage
- Patios, pergolas & sheds
- Driveways, paths, steps & decking
- Fencing & gates
Interior
- Timber floorboards (Structural)
- Windows, doors & frames
- Kitchen – benchtops, cupboards, tiles & splash backs
- Bathrooms & ensuites – tiles, baths, vanity, ventilation, shower screens & mirrors
- Laundry – cabinets, tiles & ventilation
- Insulation & sarking
- Stairs
Moisture Testing
- Moisture testing for leaking showers
Reporting
- Photos of areas inspected
- Photos and required action for defects and issues
- Same Day reporting
- Full Inspector Debrief
Important Exclusions
(What we don't do)
Please note, this is a Structural & Moisture inspection. To keep our focus on the building's integrity, we do not inspect non-structural items such as:
- Electrical: Appliances, air-conditioning, alarms, intercoms, or power points.
- Plumbing: Operation of taps, toilets, gas bayonets, or hot water systems.
- Finishes: Cabinetry, carpets, blinds, or paintwork.
We focus on the foundations, frame, and water-tightness of your home—the things that cost the most to fix.
-
Apartment Inspection
-
Electrical, Plumbing and Gas
-
Termite and Timber Pest
Structural
Complies with Australian Standard 4349.1 Residential Pre-Purchase Building Inspections and satisfies the REIWA Major Structural Defects annexure. Identifies major defects to the structural elements of the home such as footings, floor, load-bearing walls, roof/ceiling frame and retaining walls associated with the main residential building.
Excludes non-structural building elements such as roof exterior, internal cabinets, doors & windows and tiling, etc. Major structural defects for the seller to action are highlighted on the summary page of the report, depending on your specific sale contract. The number and location of RCD’s and smoke alarms are also recorded in the report.
- Footings & floor(s)
- Walls (external & internal)
- Piers & columns
- Lintels
- Sub-floor frame & supports
- Roof frame
- Ceiling frame
- Retaining wall associated with main residence
- Photos of items requiring attention
- Same day reporting
- Full over the phone inspector debrief
Structural Components
- Footings & floors
- Wall structure
- Piers & columns
- Lintels
- Sub-floor
- Roof frame & ceiling frame structures
Exterior
- Main structure retaining walls
- All accessible retaining walls
- Balconies & balustrading
- Roof exterior
- Eaves, flashings, gutters & downpipes
- Roof penetrations
- Stormwater drainage
- Patios, pergolas & sheds
- Driveways, paths, steps & decking
- Fencing & gates
Interior
- Timber floorboards (Structural)
- Windows, doors & frames
- Kitchen – benchtops, cupboards, tiles & splash backs
- Bathrooms & ensuites – tiles, baths, vanity, ventilation, shower screens & mirrors
- Laundry – cabinets, tiles & ventilation
- Insulation & sarking
- Stairs
Electrical
- Smoke alarms (number & location)
- Residual current devices (rcd’s) (number & location)
- Fixed appliances – oven, hotplate, rangehood, dishwasher
- Power points, lights & switches
- Exhaust, ceiling fans & 3 in 1 fan light heater
- Air conditioners
- Alarm system, intercom system & hardwired doorbells
- Garage door & auto gates
- Ducted vacuum system
Plumbing
- Toilets, taps, tubs, sinks, basins, internal spa bath
- Check all drains are free flowing
- Gas bayonet points
- Built in gas heater (fireplace type)
- Hot water system
- External taps
- Built in BBQ
Moisture Testing
- Moisture testing for leaking showers
Reporting
- Photos of areas inspected
- Photos and required action for defects and issues
- Same Day reporting
- Full Inspector Debrief
Electrical, Plumbing and Gas
-
Swimming Pool Inspection
-
Termite and Timber Pest
Structural Premium
Our premium inspection is our most comprehensive and includes two reports: An extensive pre-purchase inspection and an electrical, plumbing and gas inspection.
The first inspection includes everything from our Structural Plus Inspection and an extensive list of non-structural building elements such as internal cabinets, doors & windows, tiling, all retaining walls, paths, fences, and any other structures on the site.
The second report complies with Australian Standard 4349.0 Inspection of Buildings and satisfies the requirement of the REIWA Gas and Electrical or “Good Working Order” annexure.
Major defects to electrical, plumbing and gas fixtures and fittings, are recorded in this report. This is not a compliance inspection. A compliance inspection of technical aspects is not included and needs to be conducted by a licensed electrician, plumber and gas fitter.
- Everything from Structural Plus Inspection
- All accessible retaining walls
- Patios, pergolas & sheds
- Driveways, paths, steps & decking
- Fencing & gates
- Windows, doors & frames
- Kitchen – benchtops, cupboards, tiles & splash backs
- Bathrooms & ensuites – tiles, baths, vanity, ventilation, shower screens & mirrors
- Laundry – cabinets, tiles & ventilation
- Ceilings, Insulation & Sarking
- Stairs
- Fixed appliances – oven, hotplate, rangehood, dishwasher
- Power points, lights & switches
- Exhaust, ceiling fans & 3 in 1 fan light heater
- Air conditioners
- Alarm system, intercom system & hardwired doorbells
- Garage door & auto gates
- Ducted vacuum system
- Toilets, taps, tubs, sinks, basins, internal spa bath
- Check all drains are free flowing
- Gas bayonet points
- Built in gas heater (fireplace type)
- Hot water system
- External taps
- Built in BBQ
- Photos of items requiring attention
- Same day reporting
- Full over the phone inspector debrief
Structural Components
- Footings & floors
- Wall structure
- Piers & columns
- Lintels
- Sub-floor
- Roof frame & ceiling frame structures
Exterior
- Main structure retaining walls
- All accessible retaining walls
- Balconies & balustrading
- Roof exterior
- Eaves, flashings, gutters & downpipes
- Roof penetrations
- Stormwater drainage
- Patios, pergolas & sheds
- Driveways, paths, steps & decking
- Fencing & gates
Interior
- Timber floorboards (Structural)
- Windows, doors & frames
- Kitchen – benchtops, cupboards, tiles & splash backs
- Bathrooms & ensuites – tiles, baths, vanity, ventilation, shower screens & mirrors
- Laundry – cabinets, tiles & ventilation
- Insulation & sarking
- Stairs
Electrical
- Smoke alarms (number & location)
- Residual current devices (rcd’s) (number & location)
- Fixed appliances – oven, hotplate, rangehood, dishwasher
- Power points, lights & switches
- Exhaust, ceiling fans & 3 in 1 fan light heater
- Air conditioners
- Alarm system, intercom system & hardwired doorbells
- Garage door & auto gates
- Ducted vacuum system
Plumbing
- Toilets, taps, tubs, sinks, basins, internal spa bath
- Check all drains are free flowing
- Gas bayonet points
- Built in gas heater (fireplace type)
- Hot water system
- External taps
- Built in BBQ
Moisture Testing
- Moisture testing for leaking showers
Reporting
- Photos of areas inspected
- Photos and required action for defects and issues
- Same Day reporting
- Full Inspector Debrief
Termite and timber pest inspections can be done as part of your pre-purchase due diligence or as an annual health check service for your new home.
The chance of a termite infestation in Australia is high with hundreds of species, and at least 20 of them capable of eating through solid wood. This can cause serious damage which can results in expensive risks to the structural integrity of your home.
Our inspectors are all qualified timber pest inspectors who will inspect every room for termite activity (if there is safe access). This includes the property boundary or, up to 30 metres from the main building for larger properties.
The report will detail:
- Any areas of termite, borer, and wood decay activity.
- Areas of termite, borer, and wood decay damage.
- Conditions conducive to a termite attack.
- Construction issues that may facilitate termite entry.
A complete and comprehensive inspection designed specifically for new and existing Apartments.
This inspection has been tailored to the needs of an apartment buyer. It covers relevant structural and non-structural elements and includes all “unit entitlement” areas such as parking bay(s) and storerooms.
We also record plumbing, gas and electrical fittings and fixture operation on the day of inspection.
This report exceeds the requirements of Australian Standard AS 4349.1 and the REIWA Structural Building Condition Annexure.
This inspection is generally completed 5 to 7 days prior to settlement. It is a chance for you to check everything is in the same condition as it was when you first placed your offer, and everything is working as it should.
The report records plumbing, gas and electrical fittings and fixture operation on the day of inspection. In an average house there can be over 100 electrical, plumbing and gas items to check.
It is very similar to our Electrical Plumbing and Gas Inspection so most clients choose one or the other. There are advantages to either option. Items picked up early allow the seller time to fix issues or source materials. While inspecting at settlement gives you real time results. If completed early, there is always the possibility items can break before settlement.
This report complies with Australian Standard 4349.0. This is not a compliance inspection. A compliance inspection of technical aspects is not included and needs to be conducted by a licensed electrician, plumber and gas fitter.
What Our Pre-Purchase Inspections Cover
A Home Integrity Pre-Purchase Building Inspection includes a comprehensive assessment of all accessible areas:
- Structural Integrity: Foundations, sub-floor, load-bearing walls, and roof structure.Â
- Roof & Drainage (Plus Only): Roof cover, flashings, gutters, and downpipes.Â
- Moisture (Plus Only): Non-invasive moisture testing in wet area tiling.Â
- The Site: Retaining walls (>700mm), patios, pergolas, and outbuildings (additional fee for large homes and outbuildings).Â
- Safety: Identification of significant safety hazards in the home.
Why Buyers Choose Home Integrity
With more than 8,000 inspections completed each year across Perth and WA’s South West, Home Integrity is one of the state’s most experienced teams. Our team includes Registered Builders, a Building Surveyor, and a Structural Engineer. Plus, for total peace of mind, our inspectors also hold specialist Timber Pest qualifications.
This means you receive:
- Clear explanations, not generic checklists: We write reports in plain English so you understand clearly what’s happening.
- Expert defect identification: Your property is assessed with the trained eye of a Registered Builder.
- Independent insight: Unbiased facts to help you make an informed decision during the buying process.
- WA-specific knowledge: We understand local construction methods, ageing patterns, and common regional risks.
Â
When buying a home, local expertise matters – and our team operates exclusively in WA.
What You Get in Your Report
Your digital report is delivered fast and includes:
- Defects: Identification of structural issues and safety hazards.
- Evidence: Photographs of key findings.
- Solutions: Clear recommendations on repairs and required trades.
- Structural Plus Extras: Includes moisture testing in wet areas and inspection of the roof cover, gutters, and downpipes.
This is the independent clarity you need to proceed to settlement with confidence.
Our Inspection Process
- Booking & Access Book online or call our team. We handle the rest, arranging access directly with the agent so you don’t have to.
- Onsite Assessment Your Registered Builder conducts a thorough, independent evaluation of all accessible internal, external, and structural elements.
- Safety & Moisture Checks We check for safety hazards and visual signs of water damage. Structural Plus inspections also include non-invasive moisture meter testing in wet areas.
- Same Day Report We don’t keep you waiting. Your comprehensive digital report is emailed to you on the same day as the inspection.
- The Follow-Up Your inspector calls you after the inspection to run through the key findings, ensuring you understand the report clearly.
Common Issues We Find in WA Homes
WA homes frequently present:
- Structural cracking caused by soil movement or settlement.
- Roof frame defects, sagging, or removed struts in the roof void.
- Rusted lintels and concrete cancer in older coastal homes.
- Substandard workmanship in renovations or extensions.
- Visible water damage in bathrooms and ceilings.
- Hidden moisture ingress behind shower tiles (detected in Structural Plus).
- Damaged roof tiles or blocked gutters (detected in Structural Plus).
- Termite activity or damage (detected in Timber Pest inspections).
Buyers often underestimate the cost and severity of these issues – an independent inspection brings them to light before it’s too late.
Service Areas
We provide Pre-Purchase (Residential) Building Inspections across:
- Greater Perth
- Mandurah
- Rockingham
- Bunbury
- Busselton
- Dunsborough & Yallingup
- Margaret River
- South West WA
Local knowledge ensures the most accurate understanding of construction types, soil profiles and regional defects.
Pricing & Fast Turnaround
Transparency matters.
We offer fixed pricing for most residential properties, with no hidden fees, as well as rapid report delivery to help you move confidently through your finance and settlement timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Pre-Purchase Building Inspection include?
A comprehensive assessment of the property’s structural elements and safety hazards. If you select our Structural Plus option, we also include checks of the roof exterior and moisture testing in wet areas.
Do you check for termites?
We do if you book a Combined Building & Timber Pest Inspection. This is highly recommended, as standard building inspections do not cover termites or borers.
How long does the inspection take?
We take as long as necessary to conduct a thorough assessment. We recommend you do not focus on the duration, but rather the quality of the findings. Our inspectors are efficient, experienced Registered Builders who work systematically to ensure nothing is missed.
When will I receive my report?
We don’t keep you waiting. You will receive your comprehensive digital report on the same day as the inspection.
Can I attend the inspection?
To ensure your inspector can focus 100% on the scope of work without distraction, we request that buyers do not attend. However, your inspector will call you on the day of the inspection to explain the findings clearly and answer any questions. (Note: If an onsite consultation is required, this can be arranged after the inspection for an additional fee, and should be approved by your Agent).
Do you inspect roof voids and subfloors?
Yes – wherever they are safely accessible.Â
Will the report help me negotiate?
The report provides the independent clarity you need to ensure the property meets the conditions of your contract (such as the REIWA Structural Annexure). Under this annexure, there are specific mechanisms to have Major Structural Defects addressed prior to settlement. As contract conditions vary, we recommend managing the resolution of any defects directly through your settlement agent.
Book Your Pre-Purchase Building Inspection
Ready to proceed with confidence?
Book your Pre-Purchase Building Inspection online or contact our friendly team for advice.
Team
The A-Team in building inspections across Perth and the South West.
Pat O’Reilly
Building Inspector
Building Inspector, Registered Builder BP102894
Sindy Munday
Scheduler
Kathryn Pithers
Scheduler
Reviews
See what some our customers say about us.
