Inspection Services
Essential Building Reports has years of experience in home construction and renovations. We now use this expertise with our pre-purchase building and pest inspections.
We want to make sure that you are buying a quality home without hidden structural issues and costly repairs.
Our key services include:
Why Choose Us?
Exterior Inspection
We check the outside surfaces of the building for moisture problems, ant nests, and areas that may attract termites.
We flag vegetation touching external walls as a termite risk.
Roof Inspections
We inspect the gutters and roof cladding for structural defects, safety hazards, damaged tiles, rusted metal sheeting, water pooling and other issues affecting the roof integrity. We also look for anything that could attract timber pests, such as tree branches overhanging the roofline.
Interior Building Inspection
We inspect the internal walls, floors, and ceilings for structural issues, cracks, and pest evidence. We pay close attention to termite damage, moisture in the walls, holes, and other building defects. Major and minor defects are then recorded in the inspection report.
Roof Space
We can examine the roof cavity or loft to ensure the support beams are structurally sound, the area is water proof, and the ceiling insulation is installed to code. We also look for insect infestation, rodents, and signs of previous damage.
Subfloor Check
We inspect the subfloor for cracked brickwork, rotting timber in the joists and beams, water damage, leaking water pipes, and other structural problems. We also look for proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can attract termites and other pests.
Plumbing Systems Check
We check the hot water system for visible leaks and the water and sewerage pipes for issues that could cause water damage or attract timber pests. We also check the taps and toilets, plus other wet area for signs of damage and decay.
Electrical Safety Check
We do a visible check on the electrical switchboard, power outlets, light switches, and other fittings. We then recommend further investigation if unsafe wiring or hazards are found.
Additional Inspection Areas
Our building and pest inspection services can also cover other structures on the property including water tanks, gazebos, garden sheds, standalone garages, and boat decks.
What Our Customers Say
Building Stage Inspections You Can Trust
New Home Stage Inspections Brisbane
Essential Building also offers in building inspections at key stages of a new home build. We spot mistakes during the construction phase to help prevent costly repairs later on.
Our visual inspections assess the quality of the house. We compare the completed build against the approved plans, the engineering drawings, and the agreed specifications.
Stages of Review
The most important times for new home building inspections:
- Pre-slab or footing stage
- Frame stage
- Lock-up
- Final handover
Building Inspections Brisbane
Essential Building Reports save you time and money by inspecting a property before you buy. Our team looks for visible problems, safety hazards, and issues that could be expensive to fix later after purchase.
Our reports help you to:
- Identify major structural defects
- Identify cosmetic and minor defects
- Find pest infestations
- Detect visible safety concerns
- Make informed choices about the property
Pre-Sale Building Inspections
Pre-sale building inspections are done before listing a property for sale. Our reports help sellers address issues so they can avoid price reductions or failed sales.
Our inspections
- Evaluate the structural integrity and overall building condition
- Check plumbing, electrical, roofing, and pest issues
- Check for water damage and rot
- Identify general maintenance issues
- Include a detailed written report
Drone Property Inspections
Traditional property inspectors are not allowed to stand higher than 2.1m from the ground. This means they can miss hard-to-reach areas on the roof that require a safety harness or special scaffolding. These misses could cost you thousands in repairs later on.
Essential Building’s drone inspections provide you with peace of mind. When inspecting the house exterior we use our drone to look for potential roof damage. We also check the gutters, solar panels, and other external fixtures on the upper floors that are hard to see from the ground.
Our drone has a high-resolution camera that records any issues so they can be included in our inspection report. Our drone inspections deliver a thorough review of the property, so you to make an informed decision.
Pest Inspections Brisbane
Essential Building’s pre-purchase pest inspections target timber found in Brisbane including termites, wood borers, and beetles. Our inspectors use non-invasive tools to detect pest activity and conditions that might attract pests.
In Queenslanders and older homes we pay special attention to termites. These insects can eat away at wooden beams, joists, and frames causing major structural issues. Our reports document existing damage, areas at high risk, and recommended actions. In some cases we recommend that a property is not purchased because of the substantial repair costs.
Need a Building and Pest Expert?
About Essential Building Reports
With Essential Building you are in safe hands. Our property inspection reports are clear, easy-to-read, and draw on our experience in home construction.
Essential Building Reports specialises in pre-purchase building and pest inspections for residential homes and apartments. We help customers in greater Brisbane and across SE Queensland.
Chris Hoy - Director
Chris Hoy leads the Essential Building team. Chris has over 35 years of experience in building homes and he wants to ensure you are buying a quality home without hidden defects.
Chris provides expert advice and technical expertise on completed homes, and on building projects, from initial planning and design to inspections and dispute resolution.
Personally managed from start to finish
Respect and care for your property
Highest standard of workmanship
Professional Memberships
Building Qualifications
Chris holds a Low Rise Builders Licence and a Completed Residential Inspectors License issued by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). The Essential Building Team also hold pest control licences issued by the Queensland Government.
QBCC licences: 15307641 and 700833
Master Builders Queensland
Chris is a member of Master Builders Queensland. MBQ sets and maintains construction industry standards to ensure its members deliver superior quality outcomes for their customers.
MBQ Member Number: 088935
Contact Us
Location
Essential Building Reports is based in North Brisbane.
We work with clients from Inner Brisbane North to Moreton Bay, North Lakes, Redcliffe, Caboolture, and Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast.
Phone
0484 624 857
Opening Hours
Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Buying a
New Home?
Frequently Asked Questions
Homeowners often have questions about shower leak detection, repair processes, and costs.
Is a pre-purchase building and pest assessment worthwhile?
Pre-purchase building and pest checks are useful. These inspections help buyers identify hidden problems like termite damage, or structural issues like cracks and settling, roof damage, water leaks, and timber damage.
Are you a licenced Queensland building and pest inspector?
Essential Building Reports is a member of Master Builders Queensland. We are fully licenced to perform building and pest inspections in Queensland.
Can I Attend the Building and Pest Inspection?
You are welcome to join us during the inspection. This lets you ask questions and see any issues first-hand.
Do you check the roof, roof void, and subfloor?
Yes, we inspect the main areas of the house, including the exterior roof, roof space, and the subfloor if they are safe to access.
Our building and pest inspections also include the fences, garden areas, garden structures, sheds, paths, and driveways. This gives us a full picture of the property’s condition.
What inspection tools do you use?
Our inspectors use moisture meters, thermal cameras, and tapping sticks. These tools help us find hidden problems such as dampness, termite activity, and structural damage.
Is a pre purchase apartment inspection worthwhile?
Yes, inspections are important for both apartments and houses. We check your dwelling for problems, even though outside areas are usually managed by the strata or body corporate. Where possible, these checks include false ceilings, roof cavities, and the unit’s intercom.
On request, we can also inspect body corporate common areas such as the main entry doors, structural beams, and the allocated car parking space.
Is a building and pest inspection the same as a strata report?
No, these are different reports. Apartment based building and pest inspections focus on the inside of the unit. Strata reports focus on the building exteriors, common property areas such as a pool and gym, and external structures such as a garbage shed or barbecue area.
A good quality pre-purchase strata report should include information on the:
- Building exterior
- Common property / shared zones
- Body corporate committee’s recent activities
- Sinking fund for maintenance and repairs
- Major expenses – current and future
- Insurance costs
Can apartment blocks have hidden costs?
Older apartment blocks located in coastal areas can have structural issues like salt corrosion and concrete cancer. If a structural issue is identified and the sinking fund is underfunded, a special body corporate levy can be charged against each apartment owner. In some instances, this levy can cost thousands of dollars.
Can I claim a building and pest inspection on tax?
Usually, you cannot claim these costs on tax for your main home. If you buy an investment property, some inspection costs may be tax-deductible. Ask your accountant for detailed advice.
Can a buyer cancel their contract because of the inspection results?
If our report finds serious issues, you could end the contract offer, or negotiate a lower buy price. This depends on the terms listed in your contract. Ask your lawyer for detailed advice.
Should buyers look over the property again before final settlement?
We recommend a final inspection before settlement. This helps you confirm the property is in the same condition as when you first signed the contract. You can also check that the seller completed any agreed repairs.