Building Inspection FAQs
Buying or selling a property can feel complicated. Inspect Right’s FAQ page answers the most common questions about building inspections, giving you the confidence and clarity to make informed property decisions. Whether it’s a pre-purchase inspection, builders report or healthy homes check, we’ve got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the property inspection process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. We've compiled a list of the most common questions our clients ask to help demystify the experience. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need, backed by our commitment to quality and integrity, ensuring you feel confident every step of the way.
1. What is a property inspection and why do I need one?
A property inspection is a thorough examination of a property’s condition by an experienced qualified inspector. It helps you identify any issues or potential risks into the property, such as structural damage, electrical problems or roofing issues. A professional inspection provides peace of mind, allowing you to make informed decisions before purchasing or selling a property. It can also help with negotiations and protect your investment in the long term.
2. How long does a property inspection take?
Typically, a standard property inspection takes around 2-3 hours for a single residential property. However, the duration can vary based on the size of the property, its condition and whether there are any specific concerns like mould, asbestos or complex structural issues that need further investigation.
3. What is included in a property inspection report?
Your inspection report will cover all the key findings, such as structural integrity, foundations, roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, exterior, interior, roof and subfloor spaces, outbuildings and other critical components. Our reports are comprehensive, easy to understand and include photographic evidence along with clear recommendations for any identified issues, helping you make informed decisions.
4. What makes Inspect Right stand out?
At Inspect Right NZ, we pride ourselves on delivering thorough, reliable and professional property inspections that give our clients complete peace of mind. Here’s why we stand out from the competition:
*32 Years of Experience
With 32 years of experience in building, property assessments, project management and expert witness roles, our director brings an unparalleled level of expertise to every inspection. We have a deep understanding of construction, building codes, and potential issues that can arise in properties, which ensures that no detail goes unnoticed during our inspections.
*Independent and Unbiased
We are 100% independent, meaning we work with our clients. This ensures our reports are unbiased and focus on the actual condition of the property, without any external pressures. You can trust that the advice you receive is based on facts.
*Comprehensive Reports
Our detailed reports exceed the minimum standard set by NZS 4306:2005 (Residential Property Inspections). We offer a broader inspection scope, providing in-depth analysis and clear explanations of our findings. Each report includes high-resolution photographs, detailed descriptions of defects and practical recommendations for repairs or maintenance. Designed with the user in mind, our reports ensure you fully understand every aspect of the property’s condition, empowering you to make confident decisions.
5. What happens after the inspection is complete?
You'll receive within 24 hours an email summary after the inspection. A detailed report will follow within 48 hours. The report will provide clear recommendations and photographs to guide your next steps. We are always available to provide support for any questions or clarifications you may have. Your next steps might involve negotiating repairs, planning maintenance or proceeding confidently with your purchase or sale. At Inspect Right, we aim to provide you with a thorough inspection and all the support and information you need to make an informed, confident decision about the property.
6. Can I attend the property inspection?
While we appreciate your interest in attending the property inspection, we kindly ask that you allow us to carry out the inspection independently. Rest assured, we provide a detailed email summary of our findings within 24 hours, often on the same day. After you’ve had a chance to review the summary brief or report, we’re more than happy to take a call or email to discuss any specific findings in detail and answer any questions you may have.
7. Are your inspectors qualified and licensed?
All Inspect Right inspectors and Engineers are fully qualified and experienced, with extensive knowledge of New Zealand Building Codes, construction standards and property issues. Our team’s expertise ensures you receive accurate, professional advice that you can trust.
8. What types of properties do you inspect?
We inspect a wide range of properties, including residential homes, townhouses, apartments and commercial buildings. From older homes to new builds, our inspections cover all structural and safety aspects, giving you peace of mind no matter the property type.
9. How do you identify hidden issues like mould or moisture?
Our inspectors use specialised tools and techniques to detect problems that aren’t immediately visible, such as moisture intrusion, hidden mould or dampness. Early detection helps prevent costly repairs and keeps you informed, so you can protect your investment and health.
10. Can a property fail an inspection?
A property inspection is not a “pass or fail” test. Instead, it identifies existing issues, potential risks and maintenance needs. This information helps you make informed decisions about negotiations, repairs or ongoing maintenance, ensuring you’re never caught off guard.
11. How long will I wait for the full inspection report?
After a pre purchase inspection, you’ll receive a summary brief within 24 hours, often the same day. The full detailed report is delivered within 48 hours, including photos, explanations of the issues and recommended actions. Our fast turnaround ensures you have all the information you need to act quickly and confidently.
12. Do you provide building inspections across Christchurch and Selwyn?
Yes! Inspect Right covers Christchurch, Selwyn, Rolleston and surrounding Canterbury areas, even as far as Nelson, Timaru and Invercargill. We provide professional building inspections for every type of property. Whether it’s a pre-purchase inspection, pre-sale check, builders report, healthy homes assessment or material testing, we can handle it all. Our team is equipped to adapt to any property type or client need, ensuring you get thorough, reliable and local expertise every time. Whatever property questions or concerns you have, we’re here to guide you with clarity, confidence and peace of mind.
Your home inspection questions, answered.
At Inspect Right, we believe in clear communication and complete transparency.
This section is designed to answer your most pressing questions about property inspections, our process, and what makes us Christchurch's trusted choice for home assessments. Dive in and get the clarity you need for your property journey.
Still have questions?
Contact Inspect Right today and speak with one of our expert building inspectors.
We make the inspection process simple, clear and ideally stress-free, so you can make property decisions with confidence.