What is a building and pest inspection and do I need one?

A building and pest inspection is a professional assessment of a property’s structural integrity and pest infestation status. While not legally required in Queensland, it’s one of the most important steps in protecting your property investment.

What Does a Building Inspection Cover?

A qualified building inspector examines:

• Structural integrity: Foundations, walls, roof, and load-bearing elements
• Major defects: Cracks, subsidence, water damage, and structural movement
• Safety hazards: Electrical issues, asbestos, inadequate ventilation
• Minor defects: Cosmetic issues, maintenance requirements
• Compliance: Building code violations, unapproved additions

What Does a Pest Inspection Cover?

A licensed pest inspector checks for:

• Termites (white ants): Active infestations and damage
• Timber pests: Borers and other wood-destroying insects
• Conducive conditions: Moisture, timber-to-ground contact
• Previous damage: Evidence of past infestations

Do You Need One?

Strongly Recommended For:

• All existing (non-new) properties
• Properties with timber construction
• Homes in bushland or near water
• Older properties (pre-1990s)
• Properties with visible defects

May Not Be Necessary For:

• Brand new properties with builder’s warranty
• Apartments with current body corporate inspections

The Cost vs. the Risk

Typical Costs:

• Building inspection: $300-$600
• Pest inspection: $150-$300
• Combined inspection: $400-$800

Potential Risks of Skipping:

• Undiscovered termite damage: $10,000-$100,000+ to repair
• Structural defects: $20,000-$200,000+ to remedy
• Safety hazards: Injury risk and remediation costs

How It Protects You

1. Negotiating Power: Use defects to renegotiate the purchase price
2. Contract Exit: Make your offer subject to satisfactory inspections
3. Budget Planning: Know repair costs before committing
4. Peace of Mind: Understand exactly what you’re buying

Including It in Your Contract

Most Queensland contracts include a clause:

“This contract is subject to the buyer obtaining a building and pest inspection satisfactory to the buyer within 14 days.”

This gives you the right to:

• Terminate the contract if major defects are found
• Renegotiate the price
• Request repairs before settlement

Always arrange inspections during the cooling-off period or include an inspection clause in your contract.