How to Negotiate Repairs After a Gold Coast Building and Pest Inspection?
You’re Selling. The Report Comes Back. Now What?
You’ve received the building and pest inspection report, cue the nerves. Maybe it’s a few minor issues. Maybe it’s pages of problems. Either way, this moment can trigger tension between buyer and seller, and how you respond could make or break the deal.
On the Gold Coast, negotiating post-inspection repairs is one of the most misunderstood stages of the property selling process. But it doesn’t have to be adversarial. With the right knowledge and strategy, you can navigate repair negotiations confidently and keep the sale on track.
Let’s take a look at:
- What buyers typically ask for after inspections
- Your rights and responsibilities as a seller in Queensland
- Legal risks if problems are ignored
- How to negotiate repairs without losing the deal
- When to walk away, and when to hold firm
Understanding the Building and Pest Inspection in Queensland
In Queensland, most buyers make their offer subject to a satisfactory building and pest inspection. These reports flag any structural issues, timber pests (like termites), safety hazards, or non-compliant additions to the property.
This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. Buyers can use inspection results to:
- Request repairs
- Renegotiate the purchase price
- Extend contract timeframes
- Or even terminate the contract (if their request is reasonable and falls within the timeframe)
What Are Buyers Allowed to Do After an Inspection?
Under Queensland contract law, buyers are given a timeframe (usually 7–14 days) to conduct their inspections and then act based on the outcome.
If they’re not satisfied, they have three main options:
- Proceed unconditionally; they accept the property as-is.
- Request repairs or a price reduction; common for mid-level issues.
- Terminate the contract; in cases of major structural or pest concerns.
This is where negotiation kicks in, and sellers need to stay calm, informed, and responsive.
Common Repair Requests on the Gold Coast
While every property is different, there are typical items buyers often ask sellers to address after an inspection:
- Leaky taps or toilets
- Roof tile damage or guttering issues
- Electrical faults or non-compliant wiring
- Signs of past termite activity (even if inactive)
- Unapproved structures (like patios, extensions, sheds)
- Water damage or rising damp
- Trip hazards or unsafe stairs
Sometimes buyers go overboard, requesting cosmetic fixes or “nice to haves” rather than actual defects.
Knowing what’s reasonable is key to a productive negotiation.
Your Legal Position as a Seller
Here’s what’s important to know:
- You’re not legally obligated to fix everything: Buyers can ask, but you can refuse. Your obligation depends on the terms of your contract and the severity of the issue.
- Material defects must be disclosed: If you’re aware of a serious defect (e.g., structural cracking, termites, illegal work), you must disclose it. Failing to do so can open you up to legal action.
- Unapproved structures can cause settlement delays: If your property includes unapproved renovations, sheds, or extensions, this can be a deal-breaker. Learn more in this article.
- Buyers can cancel a contract if major issues arise: If the building and pest clause is active and the issues are deemed significant, buyers can legally walk away.
That said, many buyers just want fair value and reassurance. If you respond appropriately, most will stay engaged.
Strategic Tips for Sellers During Repair Negotiations
1. Stay Calm. Don’t Panic or Get Defensive.
It’s natural to feel frustrated, especially if you’ve priced your home fairly. But defensiveness only heightens buyer anxiety. Stay professional and listen.
2. Request a Copy of the Report
Don’t rely on a second-hand summary. Ask to see the actual building and pest report so you can:
- Verify the claims
- Assess the language used (e.g., urgent vs. recommended)
- Consult professionals if needed (builder, electrician, etc.)
3. Get Your Own Quotes or Expert Opinions
If a buyer claims $5,000 in repairs are needed, don’t just accept it. Get your own quotes. Often, buyer estimates are inflated.
This arms you with evidence to counter unreasonable demands or propose a fair compromise.
4. Offer Solutions, Not Just Resistance
You don’t always have to say “yes” or “no.” Consider these options:
- Offering a price reduction instead of doing the repair yourself
- Agreeing to fix safety-critical issues only
- Providing evidence that repairs aren’t necessary
- Extending settlement to allow buyers time for post-purchase fixes
Flexibility goes a long way.
5. Clarify What’s Cosmetic vs. Structural
You’re not expected to deliver a perfect, new property. Minor cosmetic issues—like chipped paint, cracked tiles, or worn carpets—usually aren’t grounds for renegotiation. If buyers push for these, you can confidently decline.
What If the Buyer Is Being Unreasonable?
Buyers sometimes test the waters. If they think you’re under pressure to sell, they might try to leverage the inspection report for an unnecessary discount.
Here’s how to respond:
- Be polite but firm
- Use your own trades or professionals to challenge claims
- Rely on your agent to mediate and guide tone
- Remember: in a competitive market, you may find another buyer quickly
And if the buyer threatens to terminate the contract, review your contract clause wording with your solicitor.
Some contracts only allow termination for “significant structural defects,” not just minor concerns.
What Are the Risks If You Ignore the Report?
Avoid the temptation to ignore or hide inspection results. Doing so may:
- Lead to termination of the contract
- Expose you to legal action if issues were known and undisclosed
- Delay settlement, especially if financing depends on repairs
Transparency, combined with strategic negotiation, is the smarter path.
Can You Fix Repairs Before the Inspection?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s one of the best pre-sale strategies.
A pre-sale building inspection done on your terms helps:
- Identify and fix issues early
- Avoid surprises or re-negotiations later
- Build buyer confidence by providing the report upfront
This can lead to stronger offers and fewer headaches.
Should You Offer a Price Reduction or Do the Repairs?
It depends.
Offer a price reduction when:
- The repairs are simple but you’re time-poor
- You don’t want to delay settlement
- You want to keep things clean and hands-off
Agree to repairs when:
- The buyer’s offer is strong and worth preserving
- You can easily and affordably fix the problem
- The buyer insists on a move-in-ready home
Your agent and solicitor can help weigh the pros and cons.
Final Tips for a Smooth Post-Inspection Process
✅ Get legal advice early, especially if structural issues or contract breaches are raised.
✅ Use a good real estate agent; they’re your buffer and negotiator.
✅ Focus on the deal, not the drama; stay solution-focused.
✅ Be fair but not a pushover; balance goodwill with protecting your value.
Stay in Control and Keep the Deal Alive
Building and pest inspections can be emotional. But they don’t have to derail your sale. With the right mindset, clear facts, and professional guidance, you can manage repair negotiations confidently and walk away with a result that works for both parties.
Whether you’re selling a renovated unit in Southport or a family home in Burleigh Heads, negotiation is part of the journey. Stay informed, stay strategic, and stay in control.
Author – Craig Douglas
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
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This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
