Buying or selling a house requires a building inspection home. The report from this inspection can be long and full of complex terms. Building inspection reports are documents that detail the condition of a property. They cover both the inside and outside of the building. An expert inspector creates this report after a thorough check of the property.

These reports give you a clear picture of the building’s state. They can reveal hidden problems that might cost a lot to fix later. For buyers, this information can help in price talks. For sellers, it can show what needs fixing before putting the house on the market.

Parts of a building inspection report

  • Property details

This section lists basic facts about the property, including the address, type of building, and date of construction.

  • Overall condition

Here, the inspector gives a general view of the property’s state. They might rate it as poor, fair, exemplary, or excellent.

  • Major issues

This section highlights big problems that need urgent attention. These could include structural damage or serious water leaks.

  • Minor issues

Here are less severe problems. These might not need fixing right away, but they should be considered.

  • Safety concerns

Any issues that could pose a risk to the residents are noted here. These could include faulty wiring or unstable structures.

  • Future maintenance

The inspector might suggest work that will need to be done in the coming years. This information helps you plan for future costs.

  • Photos

Most reports include pictures of problem areas. These help you understand the issues better.

Report readability?

  • Start with the overall condition

Begin by reading the overall condition section. This gives you a quick idea of the property’s state.

  • Focus on major issues

Pay close attention to the significant issues section. These are the problems that could cost to fix. They might affect your decision to buy or your asking price.

  • Don’t ignore minor issues

While less urgent, minor issues can add up. If they are mixed, they might become more significant problems.

  • Understand the safety concerns

Safety issues are critical. They could put you at risk. Make sure you understand all safety concerns listed.

  • Look at future maintenance

This section helps you plan. It gives you an idea of what work the property might need in the coming years.

  • Study the photos

The pictures in the report can be beneficial. They show you exactly what the inspector is talking about.

Standard terms in building inspection reports

Building inspection reports often use special terms.

  • Structural Defect – A problem with the building’s main structure.
  • Rising Damp – Moisture coming up from the ground into the walls.
  • Subsidence – When the ground under a building sinks, causing damage.
  • Asbestos – A harmful material once used in a building.
  • Electrical safety switch – A device that cuts off power if there’s a problem. Click to read more about building inspections in Sydney.

After reading the report, you might have questions. It’s okay to ask the inspector to explain things you don’t understand. If you’re buying, you should get quotes for fixing significant issues. This can help in price talks. The report can guide sellers on what to fix before selling. Fixing problems can make your property more appealing to buyers. The house is perfect. Even new buildings can have some issues. An inspection report is a valuable tool for making informed decisions about a property.