A pre-purchase building inspection can identify visible defects and maintenance concerns, but it is not a guarantee that a home is free of every problem.
Understand the scope
Read the inspector’s agreed scope, exclusions and access limitations. Concealed or inaccessible areas may not be assessed. A standard building report should not be assumed to include electrical testing, every plumbing issue, a pest inspection or confirmation of all planning and building approvals.
Arrange the checks you need
Ask whether separate pest, electrical, plumbing, structural or other specialist advice is appropriate. Check the contract, approvals and title with your conveyancer, and strata records for an apartment. A building report is one part of the purchase process.
Act on findings
Discuss significant findings with the inspector and obtain repair estimates where needed. The report can inform your decision and negotiations; it does not decide for you whether the price is fair or whether you should buy.
Sources and guidance
Identified guidance reviewed 3 October 2026.
