Building Inspection
Who needs a Building Inspection?
A building inspection is a thorough check-up of a property’s condition. It looks at things like structural integrity, safety, and compliance with building codes. This process helps identify any issues or defects, giving valuable insights to buyers, sellers, and property owners.
A building inspection is recommended for:
- Home Buyers: Know what you’re getting into before you buy.
- Vendors: Ensure your property is up to scratch before selling.
- Property Investors: Protect your investment with a thorough inspection.
- Property Managers: Keep properties in top condition.
- Commercial Clients: Ensure your commercial property meets all necessary standards.
Why are Building Inspections Important?
Jim’s Building Inspectors are trained and experienced in the building products, systems, design methods, and industry standards used in New Zealand. They also have expertise in NZ-specific factors like earthquake risk and extreme weather.
Building inspections are non-destructive, visual inspections of the property, specifically targeting:
- Exterior and Interior Roof Spaces and Materials
- Under-Floor Areas, including foundations, framing, insulation, and ground moisture
- Interior/Exterior of the Property, covering windows, floors, ceilings, and specific services and systems
- Other Structures on the Site, like sheds and garages
- The Site Itself, including drainage, retaining walls, driveways, and fencing
Jim’s Building Inspectors use advanced tools such as moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, scopes, and sounding devices to ensure the most accurate information is provided.
Download a Sample Report
Download a copy of a Building Inspection report to get an insight into the detailed information we provide, including property conditions, identified issues, and expert recommendations.
Building Inspection Packages
Choosing the right building inspection package is essential for a conducting an appropriate property assessment.
Need advice choosing a package?
- Standard is our most popular building inspection and covers the majority of inspection requirements.
- Premium is usually selected for buildings over 40 years old that may require asbestos assessment.
*Premium Inspections – May not be available in all areas. Please discuss with the local consultant. Contact us on 0800 454 654.
Standard Inspection
This essential check ensures you have a clear understanding of your property’s condition.
Premium Inspection*
Detailed analysis of safety hazards, significant defects, minor issues, and additional insights.
Frequently asked questions
What areas do we service?
We service the majority of New Zealand with key locations in metropolitan and regional areas. See our location page for more information specific to your region.
What equipment do we use?
We conduct a visual inspection as well as use the following instruments:
- Moisture meters
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Different scopes and sounding devices
Which specific areas do we inspect?
- Exterior roof
- Interior roof
- Under the floor (if applicable),
- Interior/exterior of the property
- Other structures on the site (garages, car ports, sheds),
- The site itself including factors like drainage, retaining walls and fencing
How long does it take?
Depending on the property itself, we generally allow one to two hours for the inspection.
Some take less or more depending on the degree of accessibility and depending on the number of defects found.
We then prepare the report and liaise with the client on the findings.
The report is usually available within 24 hours of inspection.
What is excluded?
Too high – second story roofs can be inspected by arrangement
Explanation of title or ownership matters or zoning
Issues related compliance with the building regulations and acts
Anything below ground (footage, draining, soil conditions)
Anything concealed within the walls such as insulation, plumbing and electric wiring