Building Inspection Pricing

The price depends on the type of property, its age, size, construction type, and overall complexity. It is not just a matter of floor area or room count, but how much time is needed to inspect and report on the home properly.

Older properties, homes with subfloors, ageing materials, and properties with a longer history of maintenance, alterations or additions often require more time to inspect and assess.

Modern family homes are often the most straightforward to inspect and report on, with modern materials and construction methods and less history to consider.

Older homes usually require more time because of ageing materials and a longer history of repairs, renovations, and additions.

Homes from the mid 1980s to early 2000s, a notorious period in New Zealand building regulations, often require more detailed inspection and reporting, particularly where plaster cladding systems are involved.

Size and design complexity are also important factors, as larger homes and more complex layouts generally take longer to inspect and report on properly.

Not always. The inspection is generally focused on the main dwelling unless otherwise stated.

Where ancillary areas such as garages, sleep-outs, or outbuildings are present, a cursory inspection and comment is included as part of the overall property inspection.

Where an ancillary structure is more substantial and/or the client requests a more detailed inspection and reporting of this, an additional cost will be quoted.

A verbal report is a tailored inspection service designed around the client’s requirements. It may involve a focused opinion on a particular issue, such as weathertightness, cladding, or another area of concern before proceeding with a purchase.

It may also be used by a vendor who wants an informed view of likely issues before taking a property to market. The scope is agreed in advance according to what the client wants assessed.

The above pricing categories are intended as a guide. Once an enquiry is received, the property is reviewed and assessed against the nearest pricing category, with regard to factors such as age, size, design complexity, construction type, and any ancillary structures the client may want included.

In many cases the guide price will be appropriate, but where a variation is required, that is confirmed before the inspection goes ahead. The agreed price is then written into the terms of service that formalise the booking.

Because building inspections are often arranged at short notice and around time-sensitive property negotiations, the invoice is raised on the day of inspection and payment is due before the report can be submitted or delivered. Once the inspection has commenced, full payment is due.