Yes, you can use the same inspector for multiple properties. In fact, using the same inspector allows you to build a relationship with them and trust their insights. If you’re buying multiple properties or comparing different homes, the consistency of using one inspector can be beneficial. They will become familiar with what you are looking for in a property and can give you tailored advice.

Yes, the inspection report can be a valuable tool in negotiations. If the report identifies significant issues or the need for costly repairs, you may be able to: Request the seller to repair the defects before settlement. Negotiate a lower purchase price to account for the cost of repairs. Ask for credits or concessions from the seller at closing. Be sure to discuss the findings with your real estate agent or solicitor, who can advise on the best approach based on the report's findings.

A weathertightness inspection focuses specifically on identifying any moisture or water ingress issues in a home. This is particularly important in New Zealand, where “leaky homes” have been a major problem in certain construction types (particularly those built between the 1990s and mid-2000s using monolithic cladding systems). During a weathertightness inspection, the inspector will check for: Visible signs of leaks or water damage. Defects in the cladding or exterior finishes. Faulty roof designs or inadequate drainage systems. Moisture readings in walls and floors. It’s highly recommended for homes that fall into the "leaky home" risk category, especially those with plaster cladding or insufficient eaves. We are New Zealand bank approved home inspection company and provide reports that meet the banks’ requirements.

Most home buyers will have an inspection done only at the time of purchase. However, regular house inspections are a good idea for homeowners who want to ensure their home stays in good condition. It's recommended to have a house inspection: Every 5-7 years to catch any emerging issues before they become serious. Before major renovations to ensure there are no hidden problems that could complicate the work. After significant weather events (such as earthquakes or floods) to check for damage, especially in regions prone to natural disasters. Periodic inspections are a great way to protect your investment and ensure that your home remains safe and structurally sound.

Once the house inspection is completed, you can generally expect to receive the report within 24 to 48 hours. However, the delivery time might vary depending on the inspector’s schedule, the complexity of the property, and the time required to analyze any specific issues discovered during the inspection. If you need the report urgently due to contract deadlines, it’s a good idea to inform the inspector beforehand.

If issues are discovered during the inspection, the inspector will list them in the report along with photographic evidence and detailed descriptions. Each issue will typically be categorized by severity: Minor Issues: Normal wear and tear or minor defects that do not pose immediate risks, such as chipped paint or slight floor creaks. These are often easy and inexpensive to repair. Moderate Issues: Problems that may require professional repair, such as small leaks, roof wear, or signs of pest infestations. Addressing these promptly can prevent further deterioration. Major Issues: Serious defects that could affect the structural integrity or safety of the home, such as significant foundation cracks, faulty wiring, or extensive water damage. These issues may require costly repairs or further specialist investigation. After receiving the report, you may use it to negotiate with the seller for repairs, a price reduction, or request an exit from the sale agreement if the issues are severe. It’s also recommended to consult with professionals (e.g., plumbers, electricians, or builders) for a detailed quote on major repair costs.

In New Zealand, the terms "house inspection" and "building survey" are often used interchangeably, but there are differences in scope. A house inspection typically focuses on the current condition of a residential property, checking for defects and providing a general overview of the building's health. A building survey, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive examination. It includes not only the structural aspects but may also cover: The materials used in construction and their quality. Detailed analysis of any historical or long-term issues. Recommendations for future maintenance. A building survey is more thorough which may be used to investigate an specific issue further, where there could be more hidden issues that require invasive inspection.

The cost of a house inspection in New Zealand can vary depending on several factors, including: The size and type of the property. The location of the property. The age of the property The exterior cladding of the property Whether additional services, such as moisture testing or asbestos checks, are included. On average, a standard house inspection for a typical three-bedroom home can cost anywhere between $400 and $800 NZD. Larger or more complex properties may incur higher fees, while smaller properties, such as apartments, may be less expensive. It’s important to consider the potential savings and peace of mind a thorough inspection can provide when weighing the cost.

A qualified house inspector in New Zealand should have the following credentials and experience: Formal Training: Inspectors should have completed courses or certifications in property inspection recognized by New Zealand. Experience: A qualified inspector should have substantial experience in the building or construction industry, as practical knowledge is key to understanding building structures and common issues. Knowledge of NZ Building Standards: Inspectors should be familiar with New Zealand’s building standards and codes, particularly NZS 4306:2005, which sets the guidelines for residential property inspections and E2. Professional Memberships: It’s beneficial if the inspector is a member of recognized professional bodies, such as the New Zealand Institute of Building Surveyors (NZIBS) or the Building Officials Institute of New Zealand (BOINZ), as this indicates they adhere to strict standards of practice. Liability Insurance: Ensure the inspector carries professional indemnity insurance, which protects the client in case the inspector misses something significant.

Yes, you are usually welcome to attend the house inspection. In fact, many buyers find it beneficial to be present because they can ask the inspector questions and get a better understanding of any issues as they are discovered. However, it’s important to allow the inspector to work uninterrupted to ensure a thorough inspection. After the inspection, most inspectors will provide a brief overview of the major findings on-site and answer any immediate questions you may have.

A house inspection is not about passing or failing; it’s about providing an objective report on the condition of the property. Every house will have some issues, especially older homes, and the goal of the inspection is to inform the buyer about the state of the property so they can make an educated decision. However, if the report uncovers major problems, such as significant structural damage or safety hazards, the buyer might decide that these issues make the purchase too risky or too expensive to address, effectively causing the sale to "fail" in the buyer’s eyes.

Yes, even new builds can benefit from a house inspection. Although new homes are constructed according to current building codes and regulations, there can still be construction defects, workmanship issues, or material defects that are not immediately obvious. Common issues in new builds can include: Poorly installed insulation or roofing. Plumbing or electrical issues. Incorrect or incomplete finishes. Problems with the foundation or drainage. Even issues that should not have passed the CCC Having an independent inspector check the property before settlement can ensure any issues are identified early, allowing you to address them with the builder or developer before moving in.

Although property inspections can provide independent advice, they do not cover Everything. There are several areas that a standard house inspection usually does not cover, including: Inaccessible or concealed areas: Inspectors do not move furniture or access areas that are blocked or locked. Specialized systems: Like swimming pools, alarms, or solar power systems (these require specialists). Pest control: While an inspector may note signs of pests, a separate pest control expert is typically required for a full pest inspection. Soil quality: Inspectors do not test the quality of the soil or check for potential land contamination. Environmental hazards: Radon, mold, or other environmental toxins often require specialized testing services. Plumbing and electrical systems (internal): Only visible parts of these systems are checked. Inspectors do not open walls or inspect underground piping or wiring. The operation of fireplaces and chimneys Appliances including but not limited to dishwashers, waste disposal units, ovens, ducted vacuum systems Hot water cylinders. If you require any of these services, you may need to hire separate professionals for specialized inspections.

Standard house inspections typically do not include asbestos or lead-based paint testing or meth testing. However, if the home was built before the 1980s, there is a higher risk that these hazardous materials may be present. You can request specialized testing for: Asbestos: Found in older insulation, roof tiles, and some wall linings. Lead-based paint: Often found in homes built before the 1980s, which can pose health risks if the paint is deteriorating. Meth testing: Lab testing with sampling.

While a house inspector will visually inspect the plumbing and electrical systems, they may recommend a specialist if they spot any issues or if the home has outdated systems. It is advisable to hire a: Plumber: To check the condition of pipes, water pressure, drainage, and potential leaks. Electrician: To inspect wiring, fuses, electrical panels, and outlets, especially if the home has older or non-compliant systems. Specialists can conduct a deeper, more invasive inspection, which may be necessary for older homes or homes with visible issues.

A pre-purchase house inspection is a comprehensive assessment of a property carried out by a qualified house inspector before the buyer commits to purchasing. The goal of this inspection is to identify any existing or potential issues with the property, including structural defects, safety hazards, or maintenance concerns. The report typically covers areas such as the roof, foundations, exterior walls, site, subfloor, roof space, and more. This inspection helps buyers make an informed decision by understanding the condition of the property and anticipating future repair costs. In New Zealand, the inspector should follow the standards: New Zealand Property Inspection Standards (NZS 4306:2005).

The duration of a house inspection depends on several factors, including the size of the property, its age, and its overall condition. Typically, an inspection for an average-sized home in New Zealand takes around 1.5 hours. Large or complex properties (such as multi-story homes or homes with outbuildings) may take longer, while smaller properties like apartments or units could take less time.

A house inspection report provides a detailed account of the inspector's findings, highlighting both the condition of key areas of the house and any defects discovered. Typically, the report is divided into sections covering the following: Exterior: Roof, cladding, foundations, windows, and doors, including signs of wear, leaks, or damage. Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors, noting cracks, moisture issues, or other signs of deterioration. Site: Site exposure, contour and vegetation, Retaining walls, Fencing, Surface water control etc. Subfloor: Foundation, Ground vapour barrier, Pile, Insulation, etc. Roof: Assessment of roofing materials, condition of gutters, and drainage systems. Roof space: Thermal insulation, Roof frame, Obvious structural alteration etc. Services: Water services, Gas services, Electricity services etc. The report typically includes photos and notes for each issue discovered and may also include recommendations for further specialist inspections (such as electrical or plumbing experts).

A comprehensive house inspection typically covers the following areas: Roofing: Condition of roof materials, flashings, and gutters. Exterior: Cladding, windows, doors, decks, and any visible foundation issues. Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, and staircases. Structural Elements: Foundations, piles, and framing. Insulation and Ventilation: The condition of insulation in the roof and underfloor spaces, as well as the effectiveness of ventilation systems. Moisture Testing: Optional but recommended, especially in areas prone to dampness. Moisture meters can help identify hidden moisture problems. Site: Site exposure, contour and vegetation, Retaining walls, Fencing, Surface water control etc. Subfloor: Foundation, Ground vapour barrier, Pile, Insulation, etc. Roof space: Thermal insulation, Roof frame, Obvious structural alteration etc. Services: Water services, Gas services, Electricity services etc. While inspectors do a visual check of all accessible areas, they do not typically move furniture or conduct destructive testing unless agreed upon beforehand.

Moisture checks are not always included as a standard part of a house inspection, but many inspectors offer it as an additional service. Given New Zealand’s humid climate, moisture intrusion can be a significant issue, particularly in homes with poor ventilation or cladding issues. Moisture readings are taken using specialized equipment, such as a moisture meter, to detect dampness within walls, floors, or ceilings. It is highly recommended to include moisture testing in any home inspection, especially if the property is in an area known for high rainfall or if there are signs of leaks or dampness, such as mold, bubbling paint, or musty odors.