Buyers in Adelaide only get one chance to check a home properly before they sign. A thorough pre purchase inspection gives you a clear picture of the property: what is sound, what needs maintenance soon and what might cost you serious money later.
A pre purchase inspection is a detailed visual assessment of the accessible areas of a home before you commit to the contract. I walk through the interior, exterior and roof space, looking for structural movement, moisture issues, poor workmanship and safety concerns. The aim is simple: give you plain-English advice so you can buy with confidence, renegotiate or walk away if needed.
Your pre purchase inspection typically includes interior walls, ceilings, floors and doors; exterior walls, cladding, balconies and decks; roof exterior from accessible areas and roof space where safe to enter; visible structure including footings, subfloor (if accessible) and framing; wet areas for leaks, poor waterproofing and failed sealants; site drainage concerns, retaining walls and outbuildings; and safety issues such as trip hazards, loose balustrades and obvious electrical concerns. You also receive a written report with photos, clear defect descriptions, recommendations and suggested next steps.
You deal with one licensed inspector from start to finish. I have more than ten years of inspection and construction experience in Adelaide, so I know the local building styles, common problem areas and how South Australian builders work.
Reports are written in plain language, not legal jargon. I highlight what matters now, what to budget for and what is typical for a home of that age. You get your report within twenty-four hours in most cases, so you still meet cooling-off and finance timeframes.
Insight Property Inspections services buyers across metropolitan Adelaide within roughly forty kilometres of the CBD. Common areas include Glenelg, Henley Beach, Seaton, Woodville, Prospect, Mawson Lakes, Modbury, Port Adelaide, West Lakes, Semaphore and surrounding suburbs. If you are unsure whether your property is covered, you can contact me for a quick check.
Q: When should I book a pre purchase inspection?
A: Ideally you book as soon as your offer is accepted or a contract is prepared. This gives enough time to complete the inspection, send the report and discuss any concerns before your cooling-off or building and pest clauses expire.
Q: Do you look for termites or pests?
A: I look for evidence of timber damage and conditions that might encourage pests, such as moisture or poor subfloor ventilation. A separate timber pest inspection by a licensed pest technician is still recommended for a full termite assessment.
Q: What happens if you find major issues?
A: Your report will clearly label significant structural or safety concerns. Many buyers use this information to renegotiate price, request repairs or choose not to proceed. I am happy to talk through the findings with you or your conveyancer so you understand your options.
Internal link idea: reference your main FAQ section on the home page for general property inspection questions.
A pre purchase inspection is a small cost compared with buying a home with hidden problems. Use the form below to book an Adelaide inspection or request a quote, and I will confirm times with you and the agent.