How Much Does a Building Inspection Cost in Melbourne?
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and a building inspection is a crucial step to avoid costly surprises. But how much does a building inspection cost in Melbourne?
The price can vary depending on several factors, including the type of inspection, the size of the property, and the inspector’s experience. In this guide, we break down building inspection costs in Melbourne, helping you make an informed choice before signing the dotted line.
Factors Affecting Building Inspection Costs in Melbourne
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for a building inspection, including:
1. Type of Inspection
Not all building inspections are the same. The cost depends on whether you need a basic structural check or a comprehensive assessment, including pests and defects.
2. Property Size and Complexity
Larger homes and properties with unique features (such as heritage-listed buildings) take longer to inspect and may cost more.
3. Inspector’s Qualifications and Experience
Highly experienced and certified inspectors often charge more, but they provide more detailed and accurate reports.
4. Location
If the property is in a remote or high-demand area, you may need to pay extra for travel expenses or premium services.
5. Additional Services
Extras like pest inspections, swimming pool safety checks, or asbestos testing will increase the total cost.
Building Inspection Costs in Melbourne – Price Breakdown
Here’s a look at common building inspections in Melbourne and their typical price ranges.
1. Pre-Purchase Building Inspection
A pre-purchase building inspection is a thorough check of a property’s structural integrity, looking for major defects and potential future issues.
💰 Cost: $300 – $1,000, depending on the inspector’s qualifications and the property’s size.
2. Timber Pest Inspection
This inspection identifies termites, borers, and wood decay fungi that could cause costly damage to a home.
💰 Cost: $150 – $500, depending on the thoroughness of the inspection.
3. Pre-Sale (Vendor) Building Inspection
A pre-sale inspection helps sellers identify and fix issues before listing a property, making it more attractive to buyers.
💰 Cost: $300 – $800.
4. Pre-Settlement Inspection
Before finalising your purchase, this inspection ensures all fixtures, fittings, and agreed repairs are in good condition.
💰 Cost: $250 – $500.
5. Swimming Pool and Safety Inspection
A swimming pool inspection checks the pool’s structure, fencing, and safety compliance.
💰 Cost: $100 – $400, depending on the level of detail required.
6. Dilapidation Report
This is used before and after construction projects to assess potential damage to neighbouring properties.
💰 Cost: $400 – $1,200.
How to Choose a Building Inspector in Melbourne
To ensure you’re getting a quality service, consider these key factors when hiring a building inspector:
✅ Qualifications & Licensing – Choose an inspector who is a registered builder and insured.
✅ Experience – An inspector with years of experience will provide a more accurate assessment.
✅ Detailed Reporting – Look for services that provide comprehensive reports with photos and clear recommendations.
✅ Transparent Pricing – Avoid companies that offer cheap quotes but surprise you with hidden fees later.
Final Thoughts
A building inspection is a small price to pay compared to the potential costs of undiscovered structural defects or pest issues. Prices in Melbourne vary based on property size, inspection type, and the inspector’s experience, but investing in a thorough inspection can save you thousands in future repairs.
If you’re buying or selling property in Melbourne, ensure you choose a trusted and experienced inspector to get the most accurate assessment.
