The Answer
$300–$800 combined
A building and pest inspection checks for structural defects, water damage, termites, and other issues before you buy.
What It Covers
| Building Inspection | Pest Inspection |
|---|---|
| Structural integrity (walls, roof, floors) | Termite damage and activity |
| Water damage and drainage | Borers and other timber pests |
| Cracks and movement | Evidence of past treatments |
| Roof condition | Conducive conditions (moisture, soil contact) |
| Plumbing and electrical (visual only) | Risk assessment |
| Safety hazards (asbestos, handrails) |
Costs
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Building inspection only | $300–$600 |
| Pest inspection only | $200–$400 |
| Combined building + pest | $300–$800 |
| Strata inspection report | $200–$400 |
When to Get One
Before you exchange contracts (private treaty) or before auction day (auctions have no cooling-off). For auctions, you must inspect before bidding — there's no going back once the hammer falls.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Active termites — can cost $10,000–$100,000+ to treat and repair
- Structural cracking — may indicate foundation movement
- Rising damp / water ingress — expensive to fix, can cause mould
- Asbestos — common in pre-1990 homes, safe if undisturbed but expensive to remove if renovating
- Illegal building work — additions without council approval can mean forced demolition
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a building inspection worth it?
Absolutely. $400–$800 is nothing compared to a $30,000 termite repair bill or a $50,000 foundation fix. Never skip this.
Do I need one for a new home?
Yes, even new builds can have defects. The builder's warranty may cover some issues, but an independent inspection catches problems the builder missed.
What Changed
Apr 2026
Content verified