Below are some of the Frequently Asked Questions we receive, regarding our Pre‑Purchase Building Inspections and Builder's Reports.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

 

What is a building inspection?
A building inspection (sometimes called a house inspection or pre-purchase inspection) is a detailed check of a property’s condition. Our qualified inspectors look for structural issues, moisture problems, safety concerns, and maintenance needs. This gives you a clear picture before you buy, sell, or renovate.

 

Why do I need a building inspection in NZ?
Buying a house in New Zealand is a big financial commitment. A professional property inspection helps you avoid costly surprises, identify leaky building risks, and gives you a building report to use during negotiations with the seller.

 

What are commonly discovered issues?

Typical issues include moisture or mould, roof and foundation concerns, leaking showers, cladding or workmanship faults, electrical or plumbing irregularities, and signs of pest activity.

 

Do you follow New Zealand standards?
Yes. All inspections are carried out to NZS 4306:2005 – Residential Property Inspection, which is the recognised New Zealand standard.

 

Why get your own inspection? (and not rely on the vendor’s report)

Vendor-provided reports may be biased—or incomplete. They do not offer you contractual recourse if issues are missed. By commissioning your own independent inspection, you retain legal rights to claim for negligent assessments under consumer protection provisions.

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THE INSPECTION PROCESS

 

What does a pre-purchase inspection include?
Our building inspections cover the roof, exterior cladding, foundations, subfloor, plumbing, drainage, joinery, insulation, ventilation, and the interior. We also use moisture meters to check for dampness and potential leaky home issues.

 

What’s not included in a building inspection?
We don’t do invasive testing (cutting into walls or floors), and we don’t check household appliances. For full electrical or plumbing compliance checks, you’ll need a licensed electrician or plumber.

 

For legal compliance or consent verification, consult the LIM report or a specialist.

 

How long does a house inspection take?
Most inspections take 2–3 hours, depending on the size and age of the property.

 

How quickly will I receive my building report?
You’ll receive your detailed written report within 24-48 hours of inspection. In urgent cases, we can often provide same-day building reports.

 

Can I attend the building inspection?
Yes – we encourage buyers to attend. If you can’t attend, we’ll still go over the report with you afterward—via call or email—to answer any questions you may have.

 

How should I prepare for the inspection?

To make the inspection smooth and thorough:

• Clear access to roof entries, attic, panels, subfloor areas.

• Ensure utilities (power, water) are switched on.

• Gather any previous renovation documents or earlier reports for our context.

 

 

REPORTS & COSTS

 

What does a building report look like?
Our building reports are clear, easy to read, and include photos highlighting any issues. A sample report can be provided on request.

 

How can I use the report?

The detailed report can help you:

• Renegotiate the purchase price.

• Request repairs or project a walk-away decision.

• Understand maintenance obligations and potential costs moving forward.

 

What limitations of a report should I be aware of?

The report reflects the property’s condition at the time of the inspection. These inspections are visual only and limited to accessible areas. Hidden defects (e.g. in walls, under floors) or issues needing specialised checks, such as building consent confirmation, are outside this scope.

 

For legal compliance or consent verification, consult the LIM report or a specialist.

 

How much does a building inspection cost in NZ?
The cost of a building inspection depends on the size of the property. Our booking system will provide you the exact cost of inspection when you enter in the size of the property in square meters during the online booking process.

 

Do you offer urgent or weekend house inspections?
Yes. If you’re facing an auction or tight deadline, we can arrange urgent or after-hours inspections.

 

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SPECIFIC CONCERNS

 

Do you check for leaky homes?
Yes. We specifically look for signs of moisture ingress, risky cladding systems, and construction details associated with New Zealand’s leaky building problems.

 

Do you test for moisture and dampness?
Yes. Our inspectors use moisture meters to check risk areas for hidden leaks or dampness.

 

Do you check for pests such as borer or termites?
We look for visible signs of pest damage (such as borer holes in timber). For full pest inspections, we recommend engaging a specialist.

 

Do you check plumbing and electrical systems?
We visually check accessible plumbing and electrical fittings. For detailed compliance reports, we recommend a licensed plumber or electrician.

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QUALIFICATIONS & INSURANCE

 

What qualifications and standards do your inspectors meet?

Our inspections adhere to the voluntary New Zealand Standard NZS 4306:2005, which sets the minimum requirements for residential property inspections.

 

We are experienced builders with more than 15 years in building constructions and home renovations.

 

Do you carry Insurance?
Yes – we are fully covered with professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

 

What areas do you service?
We provide house inspections across Auckland and the wider region. From Mangawhai in the north to the Bombay Hills in the south.

We provide property inspections Auckland wide; North Shore, East Coast Bays, Glenfield, Albany, Rosedale, Whangaparoa, Orewa, Omaha, Auckland Central, Henderson, Massey, Riverhead, Whenuapai, Waitakere, Te Atatu, New Lynn, Mount Roskill, Avondale, Mount Albert, Epsom, Remuera, Onehunga, Mount Wellington, Ellerslie, Pakuranga, Howick, Botany Downs, East Tamaki, Otahuhu, Mangere, Manukau, Manurewa, Papakura, Flat Bush.

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AFTER THE INSPECTION

 

What if the building inspection finds major issues?
Our building report gives you the information you need to make a smart decision. You may use it to renegotiate the purchase price, request repairs, or walk away from the deal.

 

Can I call to discuss the inspection report?
Absolutely. We’re always available to explain our findings and answer any follow-up questions.

 

Do you provide maintenance or repair advice?
We can, if requested. We are experienced builders and renovation specialists with more than 15 years in the industry.

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