Inspecting a property before buying
Know the condition of a property before you buy to avoid problems and costs. Learn what to look out for and when to order an inspection report.
You can usually take an online, virtual tour to see if a home is right for you before inspecting it in person.
If you do attend an inspection in person, make sure you have a thorough look at the home to identify defects as well as stand-out features.
It can be daunting taking in everything during one inspection. Fortunately, most homes have multiple open inspections that you can go to.
Repeated visits will give you a chance to check if repairs are needed and for signs of any structural problems.
Personal inspections
As most inspections are quick, make the most of your time by noting things, such as the general condition and age of the home.
Internal factors to check for include:
- windows and doors that can open easily and don’t get caught in their frames
- damp or mould along skirting boards, walls and ceilings. Be cautious of paint jobs used to cover up mould
- sagging ceilings or buckling walls
- lifting carpet and checking for rotting floorboards or damp
- trying all taps and checking how long it takes for hot water to come through
- flushing the toilet to check for a running cistern
- looking under sinks and giving the plumbing a gentle shake to test sturdiness. Also look for rust and other damage to the pipes.
- checking the hot water system for size and age, and check for damp in all wet areas
- light switches in working order
- looking at the fuse box to check circuitry age and see if there is an earth leakage safety switch
- fixtures and fittings such as air conditioners or carpet
- storage space.
External factors to check for include:
- car parks or garages
- the general state of the roof, guttering and drainpipes
- inspecting exterior walls for cracks and other defects
- proximity to public transport or other facilities like schools
- orientation of the home (what direction it faces) and natural light
- if the home has an energy efficiency rating
- noise levels around the property at different times of day
- what the property smells like. For example, check for strong smells from nearby restaurants or waste treatment plants.
Property inspection reports
Besides inspecting the property yourself, you can also arrange for property inspection reports, such as a building inspection report.
The agent must inform you as the prospective buyer about previous property inspection reports. You might be able to negotiate a cheaper price to repurchase a report.