QUESTIONS TO ASK A BUILDING INSPECTOR

Choosing the right building inspector is an important part of purchasing property. Not all inspectors have the same level of experience, reporting quality, or construction knowledge.

Asking the right questions before booking an inspection can help buyers make more informed decisions and better understand the service being provided.

Experience matters.

An experienced inspector is often better equipped to:

• Recognise subtle warning signs 
• Identify common defect patterns 
• Understand building behaviour 
• Explain risks clearly 

Buyers should feel comfortable asking:

• How many years have you been inspecting? 
• Approximately how many inspections have you completed? 
• Do you inspect full time? 

Inspection scope can vary between inspectors.

Ask:

• What areas are included? 
• Are roof spaces and subfloors inspected where accessible? 
• Is moisture testing included? 
• Are photographs included within the report? 

Understanding inspection scope is important before booking.

Most buyers require reports quickly during the purchasing process.

Ask:

• How long does report delivery usually take? 
• Is the report delivered electronically? 
• Will the report include photographs and summaries? 

Professional inspectors should communicate clearly and be willing to answer reasonable client questions regarding findings within the report.

Follow-up discussion can often help buyers better understand:

• Defect severity 
• Maintenance priorities 
• Moisture concerns 
• Specialist recommendations 

Different property types may present different risks.

For example:

• Older homes 
• Plaster-clad homes 
• Renovated homes 
• Coastal properties 
• Investment properties 

Experienced inspectors are often better equipped to recognise common issues associated with different building styles and ages.

Professional inspectors commonly maintain appropriate business and professional insurance protections.

This may include:

• Professional indemnity insurance 
• Public liability insurance 

Building inspections are visual assessments only and inspectors cannot see through concealed building elements.

However, professional inspectors should:

• Clearly explain limitations 
• Recommend specialist advice where appropriate 
• Communicate findings professionally and objectively 

Choosing an inspector based solely on price can sometimes become expensive later if significant issues are overlooked.

A quality inspection may help buyers:

• Better understand building condition 
• Recognise maintenance requirements 
• Identify visible defects 
• Understand potential future costs 

Experience, communication, and report quality are often more important than price alone.

Many buyers seek inspectors who:

• Have substantial practical experience 
• Provide professional reporting 
• Maintain industry involvement 
• Operate in accordance with professional standards and ethics expectations 

Choosing an experienced inspector can provide greater confidence during the purchasing process.

The Master Inspector Association connects experienced inspectors across Australia and New Zealand.

To locate a participating inspector within your area, visit:

Australia:
https://masterinspector.org.au/find-an-inspector

New Zealand:
https://mianz.org.nz/find-building-inspector