It’s a well-known fact that the real estate market is highly volatile, and it will stay that way, especially now that living costs are higher than ever. For this reason, sellers and real estate agents are hard-pressed to close deals, which isn’t always easy because buyers are meticulous and want to get their money’s worth.

For this reason, a property inspection is done, especially for newer properties. While the inspection process may seem straightforward, it’s typically longer because they appeal to buyers since most are in the market for a new property. However, it’s often confusing because, despite being necessary, there are also instances where you may need to call for another may be made after an initial inspection. This only prolongs the process, which further delays your moving in. Beyond that, few people know how to handle property inspections, so we’ll discuss the details in this article.

What If the Property Was Inspected during Completion?

First and foremost, it’s worth noting that a property inspection is not a requirement in most cases. However, it may be required if the property is still under construction. In this case, the inspection is called a completion inspection, and it’s required by law. This inspection aims to ensure that the property is up to code and that the building is structurally sound.

If the property passes the completion inspection, you can expect it will also pass future inspections. You only need to worry about another inspection if you buy a used property.

The Role of Builder’s Warranty

In some cases, a builder’s warranty can cover a new property. This type of warranty is designed to protect buyers from defects in quality and materials. Ask the builder about the warranty if you’re buying a new property. You should also ask about the length of the warranty and what it covers.

For example, a 10-year warranty may cover defects in the property’s structure, while a one-year warranty may only cover defects in quality.

The seller must make the necessary repairs if the property doesn’t pass the inspection. If the repairs are significant, you may have to move out of the property until the repairs are made. If this happens, you can request that the seller pays for your living expenses while you’re away.

Common Issues Found during a Property Inspection

Some of the most common issues found during a home inspection are:

  • Water leaks
  • Foundation issues (i.e. cracks)
  • Roof leaks
  • Mould and Mildew
  • Missing insulation
  • Missing smoke detectors
  • Bad wiring
  • Bad plumbing
  • Bad water heater
  • Asbestos
  • Lead-based paint
  • Pest infestation

The first thing you should do if your property fails the inspection is to talk to the seller. As mentioned, they need to make the necessary repairs before you can move in. If the repairs are expensive, you can negotiate with the seller to pay for the repairs or to lower the purchase price. If the seller refuses to make the repairs, you can cancel the purchase agreement and get your deposit back.

Considerations When Hiring a Property Inspector

When hiring an independent property inspector, you must consider the following:

Experience

A qualified property inspector should have experience in home inspection. They should know what to look for in a house and how to report their findings.

License and Certification

The inspector should be licensed and certified by a professional organisation. In Australia, property inspectors must be licensed by the state government to ensure they are qualified to perform the job.

Cost

Above all else, a property inspector’s services should be worth the money, so you should find one that charges a reasonable fee. You should get at least three quotes and compare them to help you decide.

Conclusion

Property inspection is the only way to determine a property’s condition. Since a property inspection report is vital in real estate transactions, you should hire a qualified inspector. When you do, you’ll be one step closer to your dream home because every problem will be fixed before you move in.

C & W Services provides top-quality services for property inspections in Yeppoon. Our professional property inspectors will ensure your property is free from any problems, all for affordable prices. Simply go to our website to request a free quote!

Posted in Building Inspection