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When you find a property that you’re interested in, make sure you inspect it thoroughly. You can check some things yourself, but others should be assessed by a professional.
Check if there are any restrictions such as easements, caveats or planning rules that could affect how the property can be used or altered.
Buyer's information notice
Make sure you read the buyer's information notice (form R3) (PDF 39.7 KBF) which the seller must provide potential buyers at inspection.
This notice draws your attention to things that may affect the safety, enjoyment and value of the property, such as:
- the possible presence of asbestos
- structural problems caused by termites or salt damp
- any illegal building work
- if there is a septic tank on the property.
The buyer’s information notice also prompts you to find out about things like energy efficiency, rainwater connections and possible illegal additions.
What to look for
When inspecting a property, look for signs of structural problems like:
- cracked walls – inside or outside
- sloping floors
- damp brick walls
- mouldy walls, lifting tiles, peeling paint or pools of water in wet areas
- blisters or bubbles on paintwork
- sagging roof framing or cracked or broken roof tiles.
Contact the local council if the property was recently renovated to check the correct planning permission given. Any illegal alterations could become your responsibility.
Building inspections
It’s a good idea to arrange a building inspection by an independent inspector with appropriate skills as they know what to look for and can see through cosmetic attempts to cover up issues.
Inspections can be arranged with a:
- surveyor, architect or building consultant for a general building inspection
- structural engineer to check that the building is structurally sound
- licensed pest inspector if you are concerned about termite activity.
Get a written quote that outlines the price and what the inspector will check, as not all inspectors will check things such as air conditioners, plumbing or electrical work.
The inspector will give you a report identifying any issues and whether they can be repaired. The report may also reveal any unsafe or unauthorised renovations and extensions. There is a cost for the report but it could save you thousands of dollars.
If you plan to buy the property by making an offer, you may be able to use the building inspection report to negotiate the price and conditions in the contract for purchasing the property. You can make the contract of sale subject to a satisfactory inspection report.
You can also make the contract subject to a pre-settlement inspection. This is normally done about a week before the settlement date.
It’s important to note that standard subject-to building inspection clauses in contracts usually only give the purchaser rights or remedies if major structural defects are found.
Also consider whether you want rights if minor defects are found, as many small issues can become costly.
Buying at auction
If buying at auction, you'll need to arrange a building and pest inspection before auction day. If you are the successful bidder at the auction, you cannot make the contract of sale subject to a satisfactory building inspection report.
Other things to check
Be proactive about asking questions and turning things on and off when inspecting a property.
Other things to check could include:
- Do the pipes rattle and is the water clear?
- Are the downpipes and gutters in good repair?
- Are trees growing too close to the building, which could cause plumbing issues?
- What is behind furniture or wall hangings, particularly if they are in an odd place?
Asbestos
Asbestos products have been banned in Australia since 2003 due to health concerns. Homes built before then may contain asbestos material, however your health will only be at risk if asbestos products are disturbed and you breathe fibres released into the air.
Activities that could produce asbestos dust, such as demolition, renovation, cutting, sanding or drilling – should only be done using the right safety procedures. Asbestos should only be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist.
More information is at asbestos.sa.gov.au.
Swimming pools
If the home has a swimming pool, there are some safety issues to keep in mind:
- The pool shell needs to be waterproof and have no cracks or other defects.
- Skimmer boxes (which are part of the filter system) for older pools have caused serious injuries. If a person can sit in the box, or there appears to be damage to it, you should replace it before using the pool.
- There must be a continuous safety barrier (for example a fence) that restricts access to the pool by young children. Gates should close properly.
If you’re considering purchasing a home with an existing swimming pool, check there is a certificate of compliance from a private certifier with appropriate qualifications, skills and insurance.
The local council is responsible for enforcing safety requirements for swimming pools.
Read more about pool and spa safety.
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Related information
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Other websites
- Identify asbestos in the home – asbestos.sa.gov.au
- Assessing suitability of a property statement – Consumer and Business Services
