Question 1

Do I need a building inspection before buying at auction?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arranging a pre-purchase building inspection before bidding at auction whenever possible. In New Zealand, properties purchased at auction are typically sold on an unconditional basis, meaning you generally won't be able to negotiate or withdraw from the purchase based on issues identified after the auction. Understanding the property's condition beforehand can help you make a more informed purchasing decision and reduce the risk of unexpected issues after settlement.

Question 2

What is included in a pre-purchase building inspection?

Accepted Answer

Our pre-purchase building inspections cover the property's accessible areas, including the interior and exterior, roof space (where accessible), subfloor space (where accessible), exterior cladding, gutters and downpipes, signs of moisture and water ingress, signs of weathertightness issues, building defects, workmanship, and signs of deferred maintenance. Non-invasive moisture testing is included, and all inspections are carried out in accordance with NZS 4306:2005.

Question 3

What types of residential properties do you inspect?

Accepted Answer

We inspect a wide range of residential properties throughout Auckland, including standalone homes, villas, townhouses, apartments, units, new builds, and minor dwellings.

Question 4

Can you inspect newly built homes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even newly built homes can have defects, incomplete workmanship, or issues that require attention before settlement. A pre-settlement inspection helps identify any visible issues that may be overlooked during the final walkthrough, giving you the opportunity to have them addressed by the developer before settlement.

Question 5

Who will carry out my inspection?

Accepted Answer

Every inspection is personally completed by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP). We never outsource inspections to third-party consultants, ensuring the LBP responsible for your report is the same person who carried out the inspection.

Question 6

Why choose a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) for my inspection?

Accepted Answer

A Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) is licensed by the New Zealand Government to carry out or supervise restricted building work. Unlike inspectors with inspection-only backgrounds, our LBPs have over 20 years of hands-on residential construction experience, giving them practical insight into how homes are built, where issues commonly occur, and how to distinguish cosmetic defects from genuine building concerns.

Question 7

Is moisture testing included?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All inspections include non-invasive moisture testing using moisture detection equipment. This helps identify elevated moisture levels that may indicate water ingress (unwanted water entering the building) or highlight areas that may require further investigation, without causing damage to the property.

Question 8

What happens if you find serious issues?

Accepted Answer

If we identify significant defects or areas of concern during the inspection, we will include our observations and relevant photographs in the inspection report. Where appropriate, we may recommend further investigation by a suitably qualified trade specialist.

Question 9

How long does an inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Most pre-purchase inspections take approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size, age, condition, and accessibility of the property. Larger or more complex homes may require additional time to complete the inspection.

Question 10

Do I need to be present during the inspection?

Accepted Answer

No. You don't need to be present during the inspection. However, you're welcome to attend or meet the inspector at the end of the inspection to discuss the findings and ask any questions you may have.

Question 11

What's the difference between the verbal summary and the written report?

Accepted Answer

Both services include the same pre-purchase building inspection and non-invasive moisture testing. The only difference is how you receive the results. The verbal inspection provides an immediate verbal summary at the completion of the inspection, making it well suited for buyers who need to assess multiple properties over a short period of time. The written report service includes a comprehensive written report with photographs that you can keep for future reference.

Question 12

How quickly will I receive my report?

Accepted Answer

Written reports are typically delivered within 24 hours of the inspection. For verbal inspections, the findings will be discussed with you immediately after the inspection, either in person or over the phone.

Question 13

What isn't included in a building inspection?

Accepted Answer

Our inspections are visual and non-invasive. This means we do not remove linings, lift floor coverings, dismantle building components, or inspect concealed or inaccessible areas. Specialist inspections, such as electrical, plumbing, pest, asbestos, geotechnical, or invasive investigations, are not included.

Question 14

Are your inspections compliant with NZS 4306:2005?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our pre-purchase building inspections are carried out in accordance with NZS 4306:2005, the New Zealand Standard for Residential Property Inspections. While the standard sets the minimum requirements, every inspection is backed by the professional judgement of a Licensed Building Practitioner with over 20 years of hands-on residential construction experience.

Question 15

Which areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

We inspect residential properties throughout the Auckland region, from North to South and East to West. If your property is outside Auckland, please get in touch and we'll let you know whether we're able to assist.

Auckland Pre-Purchase Building Inspections

Why Choose an LBP for Your Inspection

Choose the inspection that's right for you

Pre-Purchase Building Inspection

Pre-Purchase Building Inspection

Know when a building inspection can make all the difference

Buying Your First Home

Purchasing an Investment Property

Before an Auction

Buying from Overseas

Buying a Newly Built Home

Before Unconditional Settlement

What your inspection covers

How the inspection process works

Book Your Inspection

On-Site Inspection

Review Findings & Prepare Report

Receive Your Results

Make an Informed Decision

Building inspections backed by real construction experience

Frequently asked questions

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