When it comes to buying a house, organising a building and pest inspection after the signing of contracts is fairly standard procedure.

However purchasers must feel that there is strength in numbers, because they often question whether a building inspection for an apartment is really necessary.

While there are some differences in how the inspection might be handled – mainly due to the common areas of the property – it is still just as important!

What is a Building and Pest Inspection?

When conducted by a certified inspector, a building and pest inspection is a detailed visual assessment of a property’s condition, both structurally and in terms of potential pest activity. It involves checking for defects like cracks, leaks, or poor construction, as well as signs of termites or other pests that could compromise the integrity of the building.

Afterwards, you receive a detailed report of the findings highlighting any issues that may need fixing, or that may even be a deterrent for purchasing the property.

Is the Process Different for an Apartment vs. House?

When it comes to apartments, the inspection scope does tend to be more limited than with houses. Inspectors can assess the apartment itself and certain shared areas of the building, but generally don’t have access to spaces above or below the apartment.

While any defects in the wider building are the responsibility of the body corporate, we do also recommend arranging a Strata Inspection Report. This will give you a comprehensive overview of the building’s history, condition, maintenance plans and the balance of the sinking fund – allowing you to make an educated decision.

Benefits of an Apartment Inspection

A building and pest inspection is a great way to:

• Detect Defects: Uncover issues like water damage, cracks, or poor workmanship that may not be visible during a standard walk-through.
• Prevent Costly Repairs: Identify potential problems now, which could save you thousands in repairs later.
• Make an Informed Decision: Have the knowledge needed to negotiate a better price, or even walk away from a dud purchase.
• Ensure Peace of Mind: Greatly reduce the chance of nasty surprises after settlement.

Risks of Skipping an Inspection

Buying an apartment without a building inspection could lead to discovering costly problems down the line – such as water ingress, pest infestations, or unsafe balconies.

Identifying these risks early allows you to budget, negotiate, or even avoid purchasing an apartment that’s not worth the investment.

Don’t let your apartment purchase fall apart, make sure you are well-informed and prepared with a building and pest inspection by a trusted company!