Building inspections are carried out for all sorts of reasons and there are quite a few different inspections that can be conducted. The two most common building inspections in Melbourne are pre-purchase and pre-auction inspections.
So what is the difference between a pre-purchase and a pre-auction inspection? Do these inspections vary in their level? Our guide details the main differences between these two popular building inspection types.
What is a Pre-Purchase Building Inspection?
A pre-purchase building inspection is usually done before a property is purchased by a business, individual, or corporation. The buyer usually hires a professional to come and inspect the entire building from top to bottom and to give a report on any flaws or potential risks the building might have. Based on this report, the buyer can see if the property is listed at a suitable price and they can decide to negotiate the price or back out of the purchase.
What is a Pre-Auction Building Inspection?
A pre-auction inspection is usually done before a building goes on auction. For these types of inspections, the auctioneer or seller will usually get an inspector to check out the entire building and give a report on the state or condition of the building. This report is often sent out to potential buyers so they will be fully aware of the exact condition of the building.
Main Similarities Between Pre-Purchase and Pre-Auction Building Inspections
There are quite a few similarities between pre-purchase and pre-auction building inspections. Let’s take a look at these similarities.
- Examinations by Professionals
With both of these inspections, the building examination is carried out by a professional. These building inspectors are certified and undergo a lot of training.
- Top-to-Bottom Inspection
In both cases, the entire building is checked out from top to bottom. These thorough inspections include thoroughly examining the roof, roof space, driveway, building exterior, garden, floor, walls, garden fencing, plumbing, air conditioning units, carports and garages, electrical wiring, appliances that are sold with the property, cabinets, bathroom ware, plumbing, and drainage systems.
Everything about the building is properly examined. Even the condition of the paint on the walls is checked.
- Full Report on Findings
With both of these building inspections, the person requesting the inspection will receive a full report on all of the findings. These reports will detail all of the positive and negative aspects of each building.
- The Report is a Legal Document
The report of both pre-purchase and pre-auction inspections is considered a legal report and can be used to uphold your legal case should there be a problem with the purchase or sale of the building.
Main Differences Between Pre-Purchase and Pre-Auction Building Inspections
Even though there are many similarities between these types of inspections, there are also some differences. Let’s explore the main differences.
- The Person Requesting the Inspection
Pre-purchase inspections are usually requested by the buyer. Pre-auction inspections are often requested by the seller or auctioneer who might want to attract more potential buyers by providing a detailed report on the building’s condition.
- Report Detailing
The details included in the inspection report can vary a little bit. Pre-auction inspections are crafted to present the building to the masses while a pre-purchase report might focus on some of the things an individual buyer might prioritise. A pre-auction inspection might also include a lot more photographs.
Professional Pre-Purchase and Pre-Auction Inspections in Melbourne
Guardian Building Inspections is the best company to trust whether you need a professional to come and check out a property you are interested in buying or are planning to auction up your property publicly. If you need an expert to come and check the building and provide you with a legal and full report then we welcome you to give our office a call.
