Buying a house is one of the most significant purchases you will ever make. You are a first-time buyer or an old hand, but the most important thing is that the property is in good structural condition. So, why building inspections are important before you buy? A building inspection will identify hidden faults that will cost you thousands of dollars to repair. If you are buying property in Bendigo, understanding when to get building inspection can stop you from spending a lot of money and making an informed decision.
Why Building Inspections Matter
A pre-purchase building inspection Bendigo gives you a fundamental understanding of the property’s condition. From superficial wear to serious structural issues, an inspection, alongside the knowledge of the best time to schedule a building inspection in Bendigo, uncovers defects that may not be apparent at an open house. For Bendigo buyers, with homes ranging from old homes to new estates, inspections are particularly valuable to determine issues of age, infestation, or lack of compliance with modern building standards.
When to Get Building Inspection
You should arrange for a building and pest inspection Bendigo before signing an agreement to buy—ideally within the cooling-off period or as a term of sale. It will leave scope for:
- Renegotiate price in case of grave issues.
- Request the seller to rectify the defects identified.
- Abandon the contract if the issues are too drastic.
An inspection should be conducted before signing the contract, but this is not always feasible. That is why making the contract contingent on a successful building inspection is a good idea.
The Building Inspection Cost Bendigo
The price of Bendigo home inspection services is based on a range of factors, such as the size and age of the property and whether any additional services, such as pest or pool inspections, are included. On average:
- Standard pre-purchase inspection: $350 – $600
- Building & pest inspection combo: $450 – $750
- Pool inspections: $200 – $400
It may be tempting to forgo this expense, particularly if you’re already stretching your budget thin, but keep in mind—it’s a small fee compared to the cost of having to make surprise repairs down the line.
What’s Included in a Building Inspection?
A trained inspector will not only determine when to get building inspection but also examine all areas of the property that are available such as:
- Walls (inside and outside)
- Roof space and underfloor spaces
- Structural elements (supports, beams, foundation)
- Plumbing and electrical faults
- Evidence of damp, mould or water damage
- Safety risks such as loose balustrades or exposed cables
You’ll get a comprehensive report with photos and suggestions, typically within 24–48 hours.
Pre-Purchase Building Inspection Checklist
Before you get an inspector, ensure they address the following Property inspection in Bendigo checklist:
- Structural integrity (walls, floors, ceilings)
- Condition of the roof (tiles, gutters, leaks)
- Plumbing system and drainage
- Electrical systems and safety switches
- Presence of moisture or mould
- Presence of timber pests (termites, borers)
- Presence of past repairs or cover-ups
- Building code compliance
- External features (garage, deck, fences)
Request your inspector to provide a sample report so you know the details.
Pool Inspections Bendigo
If the house or land has a swimming pool or spa, you must ensure it complies with Victoria’s pool safety standards. Pool inspectionsare frequently necessitated prior to settlement for the purpose of ensuring compliance with fencing and barrier requirements.
- A registered pool inspector will inspect:
- Pool fence height and gate safety
- Non-climb zones surrounding the pool zone
- Locking systems and direction of gates
- Pool signage and emergency access
Upon approval, a Certificate of Compliance is issued, which is required to transfer property legally.
Choosing a Qualified Building Inspector
To obtain a proper and unbiased inspection and information on when to get building inspection, always hire an experienced and licensed inspector, such as Elite Inspections. Seek professionals who:
- Are insured and accredited (e.g. VBA or Master Builders Association)
- Conduct combined building and pest inspections
- Provide same-day or next-day reports
- Have photos and easy-to-understand recommendations
Request customer reviews or check their online reviews before making a decision and follow a guide to choosing the right building inspection service in Bendigo.
How Inspections Can Save You Thousands
Picture purchasing a house to find water damage or termites hidden beneath after you move in. This could easily cost you $10,000 or more in repairs. A professional building inspection Bendigo may seem like an added expense up front, but it provides negotiating leverage and peace of mind.
Some actual savings that result from inspections are:
- Negotiating $15,000 off because of significant plumbing problems
- Seller repairing roof leaks before settlement
- Walking away from a structurally damaged house and preventing disaster
Common Issues Found During Bendigo Building Inspections
Most dwellings in Bendigo, particularly older properties, have underlying problems. A professional building inspection will typically uncover the following:
- Termite infestation or previous damage
- Leaks or rising dampness and other moisture issues
- Roofing defects in the form of damaged tiles or inadequate drainage
- Structural movement cracks or uneven floors
- Compliant renovations carried out without council approval
- Outdated electrical cabling, which is a safety hazard
Treating these issues early on will spare you from unexpected costs and give you negotiating power.
Knowing when to get building inspection could make all the difference between a wise purchase and a costly error if you purchase a Bendigo house. Before signing the contract or during the cooling-off period, always arrange your inspection; if necessary, include pool and pest inspections. For a few hundred dollars, you will learn a great deal about the property’s state and help prevent costly surprises later on.