While you absolutely should inspect the property yourself, hiring a building inspector will help you avoid problems and extra costs down the track. Their trained eye will find anything that could be problematic, such as signs of water damage, dry rot, termite damage and more. Investing in a professional now may save you thousands later, so don’t skimp out!
They’ll quickly identify any structural issues
When it comes to homes, structural problems are nothing to be scoffed at. From cracked and sinking foundations to issues with loadbearing walls, structural issues are costly to fix. This is why it is important to have any of these issues identified before signing a contract—once you’re the owner, you will be wholly responsible for bringing the house up to code (and liable if you don’t).
They can provide clarity on how much you need to spend
Unless you’re buying brand new, there’s always a risk the home will come with some necessary repairs. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to have a property inspector check out the home before you buy. This way you can understand exactly what needs to be done and budget for it accordingly.
Any unsafe areas will be brought to your attention
Most homebuyers are looking for an investment or home that is move-in ready. If this is you, you’ll want to be sure your potential home is safe for your family or tenants to use. A pre-purchase home inspection will reveal any parts of the home that are unsafe—such as loose balustrades or dangerous materials (including asbestos). Knowing this information in advance gives you the ability to decide whether taking on the cost of bringing your home up to safe standards is worth it—or not.
No stone will be left unturned
A good property inspector will go over all areas of your potential purchase with a fine-tooth comb. Everything will be inspected, from the building itself to sheds, patios and other sundry structures. Regulations vary from region to region, however in some instances a sundry structure may not conform with regulations, which means you’d have to tear it down!
