Types of inspections

Not all inspections serve the same purpose.

Once you understand why inspections matter, the next step is knowing which ones apply to your property type and contract conditions. Different homes carry different risks, and the right combination of inspections helps you assess those risks clearly before committing.

This isn’t about ordering every possible report. It’s about choosing the inspections that match the property and your level of exposure.

A building inspection assesses the structural condition and overall integrity of the property.

Typically, it covers:

• Foundations and structural movement
• Roof space and subfloor where accessible
• Walls, ceilings and flooring
• Signs of water damage or poor workmanship
• Safety concerns or major defects

The report identifies major issues, minor defects and maintenance items, helping you understand both immediate risks and longer-term upkeep.

Building inspections are relevant for houses, townhouses and many strata properties, depending on ownership structure.

Pest inspections focus specifically on timber pests such as termites, as well as other infestations.

In Australia, termite damage is a serious risk in many regions. Damage can exist without visible signs and repairs can be expensive.

A pest inspection will identify:

• Active infestations
• Evidence of past damage
• Conditions that increase future risk

In many cases, buyers order building and pest inspections together.

If you’re buying an apartment, townhouse or villa in a strata scheme, reviewing the strata report is essential.

A strata inspection typically includes:

• Financial health of the body corporate
• Upcoming special levies
• Insurance coverage
• Maintenance history
• Disputes or legal issues within the building

This report helps you understand not just your unit, but the broader building environment you’re buying into.

Strong strata management can support long-term value and liveability. Poor management can create ongoing cost and stress.

Depending on the property and location, additional specialist inspections may be appropriate.

These can include:

• Electrical inspections
• Plumbing inspections
• Pool compliance checks
• Asbestos reports
• Engineering or structural assessments

You don’t always need every specialist report. Decisions should be based on property age, visible concerns and advice from your building inspector or conveyancer.

Some risks are tied to location rather than structure.

These checks may include:

• Flood zone searches
• Bushfire risk overlays
• Contamination or land history reports
• Planning or zoning restrictions

These are often obtained through your conveyancer, but understanding them early can prevent unpleasant surprises.

While not a structural inspection, the pre-settlement inspection is your final opportunity to confirm the property is in the agreed condition before settlement.

It ensures:

• Inclusions remain in place
• Agreed repairs have been completed
• No significant damage has occurred since exchange

This inspection protects you in the final stage of the process.

The right inspections depend on:

• Property type
• Age and visible condition
• Contract conditions
• Whether you’re buying at auction or private treaty

In most cases, a building and pest inspection, or a strata report for apartments, forms the foundation of due diligence. Additional reports are layered on only when necessary.

Confidence doesn’t come from over-ordering reports. It comes from ordering the right ones.