Once you’ve organised an inspection for a property you are planning to buy you will be provided with a pre-purchase building report. The report will help you decide whether to go ahead with the purchase and whether there is anything you need to negotiate with the vendors before agreeing to the sale. Read our article: Potential deal-breakers
How a pre-purchase building report is laid out
In most cases, you will receive a written pre-purchase building report. This includes information about all the areas of the property that were inspected. A summary is usually included either at the beginning or end of the report highlighting the main points.
Reports usually start with the exterior of the property and then work through each room inside. The report will also cover power and hot water systems. For some areas, the report may include photos to illustrate any issues raised or points made.
The report will cover the condition of each area and any issues or defects. Some non-invasive moisture testing is normally included to check for leaks or damp problems.
Building reports can also include suggested maintenance that may be required in the coming months or years. Examples could be exterior painting or gutter cleaning.
Who can do a builders report?
In reality, anyone can inspect your property before purchasing and do a report for you. You could look the home over yourself or get a builder you know to look at it for you. However, it is much better to get a professional building inspection from a reliable company. A proper building inspector will know exactly what to look for and have the right tools to carry out the inspection.
There are currently no compulsory standards for building inspectors in New Zealand so anyone can set up in business. When you are choosing a building inspector look for one with good recommendations from other clients, one who has relevant qualifications such as being a Licensed Building Practitioner and one who is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Building Inspectors – InnoHome offer all these things. Don’t rely on the recommendation of the real estate agent but do ask family or friends if they have used an inspector and how they would rate them.
How much does a builders report cost?
Usually, the cost of a builders report will vary depending on how big the house being inspected is. There may also be a different charge depending on whether you want a verbal or written report. Before you book the inspection find out whether moisture testing is included as standard or whether it needs to be paid for separately.
InnoHome offer affordable building reports, priced for 1 and 2-bedroom homes and 3 bedrooms. Extra rooms are priced per room. All our inspections include non-invasive moisture testing and thermal imaging moisture testing.
Read your pre-purchase building report thoroughly
When the inspection is done it is important to know how to read a building report properly. Make sure you read the whole report and not just the summary. Remember that the report includes lots of details. Not all of them will be deal breakers.
It can be a good idea to get your partner to read the report to, or ask a friend or relative if you are buying alone. If you have questions don’t be afraid to give the inspector a call to clarify things.
InnoHome offer thorough pre-purchase building reports – in a timeframe that meets your needs
When you have signed a contract for a property, most pre-purchase building reports need to be done within the initial 10 days before a contract goes unconditional. InnoHome offer thorough pre-purchase house inspections throughout Auckland. We can normally arrange an inspection within 2-3 days of you contacting us. If it is urgent, may even be able to arrange a same day service. This can help if you need a report before negotiating or if your bank or lender requires a report.
Once we’ve completed the inspection you’ll receive the report within 24 hours giving you time to read it and follow up any queries. If you have a short timeframe you can opt for a verbal report with a written report to follow.
If you need to arrange a pre-purchase inspection, give us a call today to book your appointment.
Read More:
- First Home Buyers – three professionals you need on your team
- What to expect from a builders inspection
- Three reasons why you need a pre-purchase builders report
- Tips for choosing a building inspector