Ever wondered what’s lurking behind those freshly painted walls? Or whether that dream home you’ve got your eye on is hiding some nasty surprises? Buying property is likely one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, so why leave anything to chance?  Choosing the right building inspector can mean the difference between walking into your new home with confidence and inheriting someone else’s costly problems. A thorough inspection uncovers structural issues, safety hazards, and maintenance concerns that aren’t visible to the untrained eye. Skip this step, and you could find yourself facing thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top five questions you absolutely need to ask before hiring a building inspector. Plus, we’ll cover bonus questions worth considering, typical costs in Australia, and red flags that should have you running the other way. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to make a smart, informed choice.

1. What Qualifications and Licences Do You Hold?

This is where you start—full stop. In Australia, building inspector certifications vary depending on the state or territory. Some states require specific licences, while others have less stringent regulations. Understanding these differences helps you separate the professionals from the cowboys.

How to Verify Credentials

Always ask to see proof of qualifications. A reputable inspector won’t hesitate to show you their licence number, which you can verify through your state’s building authority. In Queensland, for instance, inspectors must hold a building inspector’s licence issued by the QBCC. In Victoria, the requirements differ again.

What Happens If You Hire an Unlicensed Inspector?

Here’s the thing—an unlicensed inspector might miss critical defects or provide a report that holds no legal weight. If something goes wrong down the track, you’ve got limited recourse. Worse still, their findings might not satisfy your conveyancer or bank. Always verify those credentials before signing anything.

2. How Much Experience Do You Have with Properties Like Mine?

Not all properties are created equal, and neither are all building inspectors. Someone who’s spent twenty years inspecting modern apartments might struggle with the quirks of a 1920s Queenslander. Property type experience matters more than you’d think.

Older Homes vs New Builds

Older homes come with their own set of challenges—outdated wiring, lead paint, and structural settling are just the beginning. New builds, on the other hand, might have construction defects or shortcuts taken during the building process. Your inspector needs to know what to look for in each scenario.

Do Building Inspectors Check for Asbestos?

This question pops up constantly, and rightly so. Most standard building inspections don’t include asbestos testing, but experienced inspectors can identify materials that potentially contain asbestos. If your property was built before 1990, it’s worth asking specifically about asbestos awareness and whether you’ll need a separate specialist assessment.

3. What Does Your Inspection Actually Include?

Here’s where many buyers get caught out. They assume a building inspection covers everything, then discover too late that certain areas were excluded. Get crystal clear on the scope before you book.

Understanding the Standard Scope

A standard pre-purchase building inspection typically covers structural elements, roofing, external walls, internal rooms, wet areas, subfloor spaces, and roof voids where accessible. However, the devil’s in the details—always request a written outline of what’s included.

What Areas Does a Building Inspector Check?

Expect coverage of foundations, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, stairs, balconies, carports, and garages. They’ll also examine drainage, guttering, and visible plumbing where accessible. But here’s what many people miss—fences, swimming pools, and detached structures might be extras.

Should I Get a Pest Inspection at the Same Time?

Absolutely consider it. Many inspectors offer combined building and pest inspections at a reduced rate. Termite damage is rampant across Australia, and catching an infestation early could save you tens of thousands in repairs.

Building Inspection vs Structural Inspection

A standard building inspection provides a general assessment of the property’s condition. A structural inspection, however, involves a qualified structural engineer examining load-bearing elements in detail. If your building inspector flags potential structural concerns, you might need this additional assessment.

4. Can I Attend the Inspection?

Short answer? You should. Being present during the inspection offers benefits you simply can’t get from reading a report alone.

Benefits of Being There

When you attend, you can see issues firsthand and ask questions on the spot. Your inspector can point out exactly where problems exist and explain their significance in context. It transforms the experience from a paper exercise into genuine education about your potential property.

How Long Does a Building Inspection Take?

For an average three-bedroom house, expect somewhere between one and three hours. Larger properties, older buildings, or those with obvious issues may take longer. If an inspector promises to rush through in thirty minutes, that’s a major red flag.

5. What Will I Receive in the Report and When?

The inspection itself is only half the equation. What you receive afterwards determines how useful the whole exercise actually is.

What Should a Building Inspection Report Include?

A quality report provides detailed descriptions of defects, their locations, photographic evidence, and recommendations for remediation. It should clearly distinguish between major defects requiring urgent attention and minor maintenance issues. Look for reports following Australian Standard AS 4349.1.

Understanding Major Defects vs Minor Defects

Major defects are serious issues affecting structural integrity or safety—think foundation cracks, significant water damage, or faulty electrical work. Minor defects are general maintenance items like worn seals, minor cracks in render, or ageing fixtures. Both matter, but major defects could be deal-breakers or negotiation points.

How Quickly Should You Expect Your Report?

Most inspectors deliver reports within 24 to 48 hours. If you’re working to a tight settlement deadline, confirm turnaround times upfront. Some offer same-day reports for an additional fee.

Bonus Questions Worth Asking

Beyond the core five questions, these extras can reveal even more about your inspector’s professionalism.

Do You Have Professional Indemnity Insurance?

This protects you if the inspector makes an error that costs you money. Any reputable inspector carries this coverage—if they don’t, walk away.

Can You Provide References or Sample Reports?

Seeing a sample report lets you gauge the detail and clarity you can expect. References from recent clients offer peace of mind that others have had positive experiences.

How Much Does a Building Inspection Cost in Australia?

Prices typically range from $300 to $700 for a standard building inspection, depending on property size, location, and complexity. Combined building and pest inspections usually cost between $400 and $900.

Is the Cheapest Option Ever the Best Choice?

Rarely. Rock-bottom prices often mean rushed inspections, limited scope, or inexperienced inspectors. Consider the inspection cost against the property price—spending an extra hundred dollars for a thorough assessment could save you from a money pit.

Red Flags When Hiring a Building Inspector

Watch out for warning signs that suggest an inspector might not be up to scratch.

Warning Signs of an Unreliable Inspector

Be wary of inspectors who won’t provide credentials, refuse to let you attend, offer unusually quick turnaround times, or quote significantly below market rates. Vague answers about what’s included in their inspection scope should also raise concerns.

Questions They Should Be Willing to Answer

A professional inspector happily discusses their qualifications, experience, insurance, report format, and inspection methodology. If someone gets defensive or evasive when you ask basic questions, trust your instincts and look elsewhere.

Making Your Final Decision with Confidence

Choosing a building inspector doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. If you’re currently searching for a reliable building inspector in Bentleigh East, asking these five essential questions—plus a few bonus enquiries—will help you quickly separate thorough professionals from those who cut corners.

Remember, the right inspector provides more than just a report. They offer peace of mind, valuable insights into your potential property, and potentially significant negotiating power. Don’t rush this decision based on price alone—consider qualifications, experience, scope of service, accessibility and the quality of the final report.

Take your time, do your homework and trust your gut. The small investment in a quality building inspection could save you from years of headaches and financial strain. After all, knowledge is power—especially when you’re making one of life’s biggest purchases. Good luck with your property journey!

To know more visit Home Improvement WOW