Most property buyers receive an inspection report and either skim it or don’t know how to assess what’s serious. This leads to missed warnings and costly mistakes.
Without clearly reading the report, you risk taking on major repair costs or even buying a property with hidden safety risks. These problems could affect both your budget and your safety.
This guide helps you assess a building inspection report correctly. You’ll know what matters, what needs immediate attention, and how to use the report during negotiations. We also explain how we support this process with reliable, fact-based reporting.
Why Inspection Reports Matter Before Buying
An inspection report outlines the real condition of the property beyond surface appearance. It shows issues that may not be visible during a viewing. These details help buyers factor in repair costs and assess whether the asking price is fair.
Some buyers overlook key sections of the report. Others focus only on cosmetic flaws. But the report is designed to highlight problems that could affect livability or safety, even if they don’t look urgent.
Main Sections to Focus On
Most reports are divided into these parts:
- Structural damage
- Electrical and plumbing setup
- Roof and guttering
- Signs of water damage
- Pests or infestation
- Internal and external finishes
Each section lists its findings using either visual checks or basic testing. Reading each in full is necessary to get a clear view of the building’s condition.
Major Defects and What They Mean
Major defects refer to structural or critical issues that affect the stability or safety of the property. Common examples include:
- Uneven or cracking foundations
- Sagging roofs or damaged trusses
- Termite infestations
- Water entry points with mould presence
These types of problems should be resolved before settlement or factored into price negotiations. They may also require licensed contractors for further inspection or repair.
Minor Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore
Minor defects often include items like peeling paint, cracked tiles, loose taps, or worn window seals. While they don’t affect the structure, they point to how well the property has been maintained.
If ignored, these small issues can lead to bigger concerns—such as leaks from unsealed windows or pests entering through gaps. Keep track of them and use them to plan early maintenance.
🖼️ Image cue: Report photos showing chipped fixtures or cracked walls
Spotting Immediate Hazards
Reports also flag anything that poses a direct safety risk. These are usually labelled separately for urgency. Hazards may include:
- Damaged electrical wiring
- Gas leaks
- Loose railings or staircases
- Asbestos exposure risks
Hazards must be dealt with immediately and often require a follow-up from licensed trades or environmental assessors.
What the Photos Reveal
Photos in the report offer more than just evidence. They help visualise the scale of the issue and confirm exactly where a defect is located.
Buyers should match the photo to the written issue. If a serious item has no image, ask for clarification. Photos also make it easier to get repair quotes later on.
Inspector’s Comments and Next Steps
The last section of a report usually includes comments or suggested actions. These can include:
- Review from a structural engineer
- Pest control advice
- Rewiring assessments
- Roofing or gutter repair scope
If an issue is beyond basic inspection, you’ll be advised to bring in a specialist. Acting on these steps early avoids long-term risks.
Clarifying Report Items with the Inspector
Inspectors often welcome follow-up questions. If something in the report seems unclear or understated, reach out and ask. They can explain the level of risk or whether further assessment is needed.
This step builds your confidence in how to proceed with the property decision and ensures no major findings go unchecked.
Using the Report to Make a Decision
Use the inspection report to weigh repair costs against your budget. If a few serious repairs are needed, the price offer may need to be adjusted.
If hazards or structural issues are beyond what you’re willing to manage, the report supports a decision to walk away. This is a key benefit of having an inspection done before finalising a deal.
Working with Exceptional Building Inspections
At Exceptional Building Inspections, we make sure every report is easy to read and focused on what matters. We explain issues clearly, include supporting photos, and avoid jargon so nothing is left unclear.
If you’ve received a report and need help making sense of it—or if you’re looking for a reliable second opinion—we’re ready to assist. We go over each item with you, explain the impact, and help you decide your next move with confidence.Book an inspection with us to get clear, honest reporting before you finalise your property decision.