Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• External visual inspection of roof, chimneys, gutters, walls and visible drainage

• Internal walk-through of rooms, floors, ceilings and visible timber for defects, damp and mould

• Loft and roof-space inspection where safe access exists, including insulation and timber condition

• Visual check of plumbing and heating for leaks and obvious defects and of visible electrical components (no invasive testing)

• Use of moisture meter and basic non-intrusive tools; thermal imaging or invasive tests offered as extras

• Written report with photos, key findings, urgency rating and indicative repair cost ranges

• Inspector will wear PPE and will not disturb suspected asbestos, contaminated materials or wildlife; specialist sampling recommended if found

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Most domestic inspections take 1–3 hours on site for a typical two- or three-bedroom house; larger or older properties, obstructed lofts or the need for specialist tests can extend this to 3–6 hours or require a return visit

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• Do you carry public liability and professional indemnity insurance

• What exactly is included in the written report and can I see a sample

• Will you perform any intrusive inspections and if so what permissions are required

• How long until I receive the report and are follow-up calls included

• Do you recommend any specialist tests (electrical, damp, asbestos) and cost estimates for those

• Do you have experience with this property type and can you provide references for similar inspections

How to Avoid Surprises

• ensure clear access to lofts, roof hatches and the property exterior

• make sure utilities are on (water and electricity) or tell the inspector if they are isolated

• park a vehicle nearby or check parking restrictions so arrival and equipment unloading go smoothly

• secure pets and remove fragile items from inspection areas

• tell the inspector about known issues (previous damp, woodworm, loft stored items) and any access limitations

• be prepared for additional costs or permissions if scaffolding, invasive inspection or specialist sampling is needed