Why Inspector Selection is the Most Critical Step in a Property Purchase
When the time comes to seek out the services of a local Brisbane building inspector for a potential property, what should the client look out for and what questions should they ask? Putting trust in a licensed professional is essential when it comes to having a home assessed both inside and out. These tips will ensure the inspection team has the experience, knowledge and equipment designed to give clients the detailed truth they are seeking.
Expect the basic requirements
Without even blinking an eyelid, it is mandatory that the building inspector is qualified and licensed. This will ensure that they are bound to adhere to a set of regulated Australian standards. It’s worthwhile asking too if they have insurance, just in case. Over 50% of inspection companies no longer carry insurance.
Experience counts
Experience really does count. Doing research and making sure a local Brisbane building inspector has worked in their field for quite some time is recommended. This is key to ensure they know exactly what to look out for, like common areas that are often cleverly disguised by homeowners.
Equipment
It’s more than a pen and paper that’s needed when undertaking a building inspection. A professional inspector will arrive at a property with a range of tools to get the best results; everything from a camera to moisture detectors, thermal image cameras, internal wall scope cameras, ladders etc.
Word of mouth
By going local and hiring a company in Brisbane, home buyers can ask around and rely on word of mouth. It won’t take long to hear about complaints if there are any but also referrals help in finding out exactly who is trusted repeatedly. Buyers can even contact the licensing board if they want to delve deeper to ensure that there are no registered complaints.
Jargon-free report
At the conclusion of a building inspection, it is imperative that the potential buyer is provided with a detailed report. This really needs to be free from jargon and be presented in accordance with the mandatory standards (AS 4349.1). Ask the inspector what the report will include upfront, checking upfront will ensure the client feels confident that the report will be as comprehensive as they expect. An inspection company should have enough confidence in their report to have a sample on display on their website.
The report should not only identify every little issue noted from both inside and outside of the property, but also an idea of the severity. Sometimes a report may appear to be rife with major concerns however they are minor. Some inspectors go above and beyond and offer practical methods of repair where defects are found.
This Sample Report provides an indication of the level of detail one should expect to see in any building inspection report.
Asking questions
Asking the inspector questions shouldn't be nerve racking. If it is someone's first time seeking the help of a building inspector, there are bound to be aspects of the process that sprout feelings of uncertainty in the buyer. In addition, if there are certain areas of a property that raise specific concerns, point them out. An experienced building inspector has a wealth of knowledge that can be utilised to provide guidance.
Being armed with a detailed checklist ensures that the Brisbane building inspector chosen will be perfectly suited for the job.
