What is a Pre-Purchase Building Inspection?
A pre-purchase building inspection is a thorough visual assessment of a property carried out by a qualified and experienced building professional before you finalise your purchase. The inspector examines all accessible areas of the building and provides a written report detailing any defects, areas of concern and recommended repairs.
In New Zealand, pre-purchase inspections are not legally required, but they are strongly recommended. They give you critical information about the condition of the property and can be used to negotiate the purchase price or request repairs before settlement.
Who Should Carry Out the Inspection?
Always use a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or a suitably qualified building professional with hands-on experience in residential construction and maintenance. An LBP has formal recognition from the New Zealand Building Industry and is accountable for their work.
Selwyn Property Services inspections are carried out by a current Licensed Building Practitioner with over 30 years of building experience across Canterbury, including new builds, renovations, and extensive residential maintenance.
What Does the Inspector Check?
A thorough pre-purchase inspection covers all accessible areas of the building, including:
- Roof structure and cladding — condition of roofing material, gutters, flashings, and any signs of leaks or damage
- Exterior walls and cladding — weathertightness, cracks, paint condition, joins, and any evidence of moisture ingress
- Foundations — visible signs of movement, cracking, or subfloor moisture
- Subfloor — timber condition, ventilation, moisture levels, and signs of pest damage
- Interior — walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, and built-in joinery
- Plumbing — visible pipe condition, water pressure, drainage, and hot water
- Electrical — visible wiring, switchboard condition, and any obvious hazards
- Decks, steps and handrails — structural integrity, fixings, and compliance with safety requirements
- Drainage — stormwater and wastewater, visible drainage paths
- Garages and outbuildings — condition and any structural concerns
What is Not Included?
A visual building inspection does not include invasive testing, drainage CCTV, specialist electrical or plumbing reports, or moisture testing behind linings. If there are signs of significant weathertightness or moisture issues, we will recommend specialist follow-up inspections.
What Does the Report Include?
Following the inspection you receive a written report that includes:
- A summary of findings and overall assessment
- Itemised list of defects and areas of concern
- Clear photographs of all identified issues
- Recommended actions and estimated priority (urgent, near-term, or monitor)
- Plain English explanations — no jargon
Reports are typically delivered within 24–48 hours of the inspection.
How Long Does an Inspection Take?
Most residential property inspections take between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. We recommend being present during the inspection so we can walk you through any findings in person and answer your questions directly.
How Much Does a Pre-Purchase Inspection Cost?
The cost of a pre-purchase inspection is modest relative to the value it provides. For a property worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, a thorough inspection can identify issues that may cost tens of thousands to repair — or give you confidence that the property is in good order.
Contact us for a fixed price quote based on the size and location of the property. We cover all of Selwyn District and surrounding Canterbury areas.
When Should I Book the Inspection?
Book your inspection as early as possible in the purchase process. If you are buying at auction, arrange the inspection before auction day. For conditional purchases, your inspection should occur within the due diligence period specified in your sale and purchase agreement.
We offer flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends where required to meet your settlement timelines.
Ready to Book?
Contact Selwyn Property Services today to arrange your pre-purchase building inspection. We service Rolleston, Lincoln, Prebbleton, Leeston, Darfield, West Melton, Kirwee, Springston and all surrounding areas.