When conducting building inspections on Brisbane properties, our professional inspector will consult a comprehensive checklist to ensure no stone is left unturned. A thorough inspection provides you with the vital information needed to make an informed decision before purchasing your biggest investment.

Whether you’re buying or selling a property, the value of a detailed report can't be overstated. At Ironbark Building and Pest, our pre-purchase building inspection checklist is designed to cover every major area of concern, so you can proceed with confidence.

We conduct detailed pre-purchase and pre-sale inspections for properties across Brisbane. Our Brisbane building and pest inspections seek to identify various defects that may require attention before the property is sold or purchased. This building inspection checklist outlines some of the major points of interest that we assess during our inspections.

Subfloor Defects

The subfloor is the foundation of any home, and its condition plays a critical role in the structural integrity of the property. Common issues that we look for include rot from water damage or termite activity, which can significantly compromise the property. High moisture levels in the subfloor also create an environment for wood rot and pests, both of which are costly to repair if not identified early.

If subfloor problems are found, it’s important to assess the costs of repair to ensure the property remains in good condition. This early identification allows you to plan accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses after purchasing.

Outside of the Building

The exterior of a home is exposed to various elements, making it susceptible to wear and tear over time. Our inspectors carefully evaluate:

Cracks in the walls or foundations, which may indicate structural movement.
Decay or corrosion in building materials, such as timber or metal components.
Evidence of poor drainage, which can lead to long-term structural issues.

These defects can compromise the structural integrity of the property, so it’s important to address them early. If major repairs are needed, you'll want to consider these costs in your overall investment plans.

Roof and Guttering

Our building and pest inspections include a thorough review of the roof and guttering. Missing or damaged tiles, cracked shingles, and signs of water leaks can all be indicators of larger issues that need attention. We also assess the condition of the gutters and downpipes to ensure proper water flow, as blockages or damage can lead to water pooling around the home’s foundations.

Inside of the Building

Walls

When inspecting a home, we pay close attention to the condition of the walls, both inside and out. All walls are checked to ensure they are straight, without significant cracks or other signs of structural damage. Particular attention is paid to any recent paint or wallpaper jobs, which may be hiding defects.

If we notice sagging weatherboards in timber houses, this could mean the timber stumps are rotten or the brick piers have subsided, putting the home at risk of structural failure.

Ceilings

We carefully inspect ceilings to make sure they are straight and free of cracks. Any signs of movement or cracking in the cornices are noted, as these could indicate shifting in the structure. Stains or mould on the ceiling are also signs of potential roof leaks or poor ventilation, which need to be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Light Switches and Electrical Systems

A proper inspection includes checking light switches and other electrical components for functionality and safety. Our inspectors assess the overall condition of the electrical system to ensure it meets current safety standards, offering you peace of mind that there are no hidden hazards.

Plumbing

All of our Brisbane building inspections include a detailed assessment of the property’s plumbing in our pre-purchase inspection checklist. This involves checking for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in other visible areas. Low water pressure or signs of corrosion in pipes are also noted, as these can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early.

Our inspectors review the water heater to ensure it’s functioning efficiently and assess the general condition of the plumbing to help you avoid unexpected repairs after moving in.

Ironbark’s Building Inspection Checklist

At Ironbark Building and Pest, we use a comprehensive checklist to ensure we are ticking every box for our building and pest inspections. There is a lot more that goes into our inspections than what has been listed in this article, but it gives an overview of the kind of thing we are looking for when scanning over a property.

Book one of our local building and pest inspections for your Brisbane property - contact us today!

Building Inspection Checklist