A pre-purchase building inspection is a crucial step in the property buying process, providing potential buyers with a thorough understanding of the condition of a property before finalising the purchase.
This inspection typically evaluates the structural integrity, safety, and overall condition of a building, including any hidden issues that may not be immediately visible to an untrained eye.
One of the most common questions homebuyers ask when considering a pre-purchase inspection is, “How long will the inspection take?”
The duration of a pre-purchase building inspection depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the property, the condition of the building, the type of inspection being carried out, and the expertise of the inspector.
While it’s difficult to give an exact timeframe for every property, we can break down the typical length of an inspection based on these influencing factors and explore what goes into the process.
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Factors That Affect The Duration Of A Pre-Purchase Building Inspection
Size Of The Property
The size of the property plays a significant role in determining how long a pre-purchase building inspection will take. Larger homes or multi-level properties will require more time to thoroughly inspect.
A standard 3-bedroom house will generally take between 1.5 to 2 hours for an inspection, while a larger home with multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, or extra features such as a pool, garage, or outbuildings could take up to 3 hours or longer.
On the other hand, if you’re purchasing a small apartment or a compact unit, the inspection could take only 1 to 1.5 hours, as there is less area to cover.
Age And Condition Of The Property
Older properties or those in poor condition may take longer to inspect. This is because inspectors need to be more thorough in identifying hidden issues that might arise from years of wear and tear, including problems with the foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, or roofing.
Inspecting a heritage-listed or historically significant property, which may have special requirements and considerations, can also extend the inspection time.
Conversely, newer properties that have been well-maintained or recently renovated may take less time to inspect as there are fewer potential issues to investigate.
However, even with a newer property, it is essential to ensure that all systems are functioning properly and there are no defects that could affect its long-term value.
Type Of Inspection
The type of pre-purchase building inspection you choose will also influence how long the inspection takes. There are various inspection options available, and some may be more comprehensive than others.
- Standard Building Inspection: This is the most common type of pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the overall condition of the property, including the structure, roof, walls, plumbing, electrical, and more. This inspection typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours for a medium-sized house, but it can take longer for larger or more complex properties.
- Pest Inspection: In some cases, you may choose to combine a pest inspection with your building inspection. Pest inspections usually take an additional 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the property. A pest inspector will look for signs of termite damage, wood rot, and other pest-related issues that could affect the property.
- Combined Building and Pest Inspection: If you opt for both a building and pest inspection, the inspection may take between 2 to 3 hours for a medium-sized home. This is a popular choice for many buyers, as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of the property in one go.
- Specialist Inspections: In some cases, you may require additional specialist inspections, such as for asbestos, mould, or swimming pool safety. These inspections will take extra time, depending on the complexity of the property and the issue being investigated.
Accessibility Of The Property
The ease with which an inspector can access the various parts of the property is another factor that affects the duration of the inspection.
For example, if the roof space, subfloor, or crawl spaces are difficult to access or have limited visibility, the inspector may need to spend additional time ensuring that these areas are adequately inspected.
Similarly, properties with large gardens, pools, or outdoor areas may require extra time to assess and check for any potential maintenance or safety issues.
If a property has numerous levels or an intricate design, the inspector may need to spend more time inspecting each area.
Inspector’s Experience And Thoroughness
The experience and thoroughness of the building inspector can also impact how long the inspection takes.
A highly experienced inspector will likely be able to complete the process more quickly, as they know exactly what to look for and can identify issues more efficiently.
However, a detailed inspection will always take more time, as the inspector will ensure that no stone is left unturned in their assessment.
While it may be tempting to choose a quicker inspection, it is important to remember that the goal is to identify any hidden problems that could end up being costly down the line.
Therefore, it’s better to opt for a slightly longer inspection to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition.
The Pre-Purchase Building Inspection Process
The building inspection process can be broken down into several steps. Each of these steps will require a certain amount of time to complete, which can vary depending on the factors listed above.
Initial Assessment
The inspector begins with an initial assessment of the property, looking at the exterior to check for any obvious issues such as cracks in the walls, roof damage, or drainage problems.
This initial assessment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Internal Inspection
The inspector will then move inside the property, examining the condition of the floors, walls, ceiling, plumbing, electrical systems, windows, doors, and any other relevant internal features.
They will look for signs of water damage, structural problems, or other issues that could affect the property’s safety or livability.
This step can take between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the home and the number of rooms.
Roof And Subfloor Inspection
If the property is a house rather than an apartment, the inspector will likely check the roof and subfloor areas.
They will inspect the roof for signs of damage, such as missing tiles or leaks, and assess the subfloor for any structural issues, dampness, or pest activity.
This section of the inspection can take up to 30 minutes, depending on accessibility and the size of the property.
Pest Inspection (If Included)
If you have opted for a combined building and pest inspection, the pest inspector will then carry out a thorough examination of the property, looking for signs of pest damage such as termite trails, wood rot, or mould. This process usually takes an additional 30 minutes to an hour.
Final Report
After completing the physical inspection, the inspector will compile their findings into a detailed report.
This report may include photographs of any issues they have identified, along with recommendations for repairs or further investigations. Preparing this report typically takes between 1 to 2 hours.
How Long Does A Pre-Purchase Building Inspection Take?
Given all the factors involved, a pre-purchase building inspection typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours for an average-sized home. However, this can vary widely based on the property’s size, condition, and the depth of the inspection.
A small apartment may only take 1 hour, while a large or complex property could require 4 hours or more to thoroughly inspect.
How To Prepare For A Pre-Purchase Building Inspection
If you are a buyer preparing for a pre-purchase building inspection, there are a few things you can do to help ensure the process goes smoothly and the inspection takes as little time as possible:
- Be present during the inspection: It’s a good idea to attend the inspection so you can ask questions and get immediate feedback from the inspector. However, be mindful that the inspector will need time to focus on the property, so don’t interfere with their process.
- Ensure the property is accessible: Make sure all areas of the property are easily accessible to the inspector, including roof spaces, subfloors, and outdoor areas.
- Prepare a list of concerns: If you have specific concerns about the property, such as the condition of the roof or the plumbing, let the inspector know at the beginning of the inspection. This will help them focus on the areas that are most important to them.
Conclusion
A pre-purchase building inspection is an essential part of the property-buying process, and its duration is influenced by several factors.
On average, a standard building inspection takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, but the size, condition, and complexity of the property can impact this timeframe.
Regardless of the length, it’s important to remember that a thorough inspection is crucial to ensure you are making a sound investment.
The time spent on the inspection could save you thousands of dollars in repair costs and prevent future headaches.
Frequently Ask Question
What Is Included In A Pre-Purchase Building Inspection?
A pre-purchase building inspection covers various aspects of the property, including structural integrity, roof condition, plumbing, electrical systems, and any signs of pest activity.
Inspectors will also assess internal and external areas, such as walls, floors, windows, and doors. Additionally, they will check for any potential safety hazards like mould or fire risks.
The aim is to identify any hidden issues that could affect the property’s value or pose a risk to your health or safety.
Should I Attend The Pre-Purchase Building Inspection?
While attending the building inspection is not mandatory, it can be helpful. Being present allows you to ask the inspector questions directly about any concerns or findings during the inspection.
It also gives you a better understanding of the property’s condition. If you can’t attend, you can always ask the inspector to provide a detailed report or schedule a time for a follow-up discussion.
Many inspectors also offer photo documentation for visual reference.
What Happens If The Building Inspection Uncovers Major Issues?
If a building inspection reveals significant problems, you have a few options. First, you could try negotiating with the seller to lower the price to account for the cost of repairs.
Alternatively, you may request that the seller fix the issues before finalising the sale. If the problems are too serious, you might decide to walk away from the deal altogether.
It’s crucial to discuss the findings with your solicitor or real estate agent to understand your rights and options.