Why You Need Your Own Building and Pest Inspection When Buying a Home on the Gold Coast
If you’re buying a property on the Gold Coast, especially through auction, you might be offered a seller-provided building and pest report. While this may seem convenient, relying solely on a report you didn’t commission could leave you exposed to serious risks.
Here’s why ordering your own independent Building and Pest Inspection Report is a crucial step in protecting your financial future.
What Is a Seller’s Pre-Inspection?
A seller’s pre-inspection report is often used to reassure buyers about a property’s condition before it’s listed on the market. These reports can highlight any issues and appear comprehensive. However, they are not a substitute for your own due diligence as a buyer.
Many sellers now commission pre-sale building and pest inspections to present their property in the best light. This trend is particularly common at auctions, where buyers are expected to do all their checks before bidding. While helpful on the surface, these reports should never replace your own.
Risks of Relying on the Seller’s Building and Pest Inspection Report
1. No Say in the Choice of Inspector
By accepting the seller’s report, you don’t get to choose who inspects the home. This can raise questions about bias or influence—was the inspector chosen for being thorough or just for being fast and friendly with the agent?
2. No Legal Protection
If something goes wrong post-purchase, and you relied on a report you didn’t pay for, you have no legal standing. Inspectors carry indemnity insurance, but this protection only applies to their client—usually the seller, not you. If the report misses a critical issue, you can’t claim compensation.
3. Lack of Accountability
When you commission your own inspection, the inspector works for you, not the seller. You can ask questions, get clarifications, and be confident the report reflects your best interests. With a seller’s report, that accountability simply isn’t there.
The Smart Buyer’s Approach: Get Your Own Report
Whether you’re buying at auction or through private treaty, organising your own building and pest inspection is the smartest way to protect yourself.
This report can:
- Uncover hidden structural issues
- Identify potential pest infestations
- Flag expensive future maintenance
- Give you confidence before signing the contract
You’ll also be covered by the inspector’s indemnity insurance, which means legal protection if anything major is missed.
Don’t Judge by Appearances
Even if the home looks immaculate or has just been renovated, don’t skip your inspection. Many serious issues lurk below the surface, from faulty wiring to termite damage. Paying for your own inspection is a small investment compared to the long-term costs of buying a problem property.
Your Inspection, Your Protection
When it comes to buying a property, especially on the Gold Coast, your peace of mind starts with getting your own building and pest inspection.
Avoid the temptation to rely on seller-supplied reports. Protect yourself, your future home, and your finances by doing it right the first time.
Looking to Buy with Confidence on the Gold Coast?
I offer personalised guidance and trusted local connections as a Buyer’s Agent, to help you make smart, stress-free property buying decisions.
Get in touch with me today to start your home buying journey the right way.
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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Some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
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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
