Next Steps After Receiving Your Building and Pest Report: A Comprehensive Guide

Receiving your building and pest report is a crucial moment in the property buying process. This document reveals the condition of the property and highlights any issues that could affect your decision to proceed. Knowing what to do after you get this report can save you from costly surprises and help you negotiate better terms. This guide walks you through the essential steps to take once you have your building and pest report in hand.

Reviewing a building and pest report carefully

Read the Report Thoroughly

Start by reading the report carefully from start to finish. Don’t skim or skip sections, even if some parts seem technical or overwhelming. The report will list major defects, minor defects, and general maintenance suggestions.

• Major defects might include structural damage, termite infestations, or significant water damage. These are issues that could affect the safety or value of the property.

• Minor defects could be things like small cracks, loose fittings, or minor wear and tear.

• Maintenance suggestions often cover things that aren’t urgent but could prevent problems if addressed early, such as clearing gutters or fixing small leaks.

  
  

Take notes as you go. Highlight or write down any concerns that stand out. This will help you organize your thoughts and prepare for the next steps.

Decide What You Can Accept and What Needs Fixing

Once you understand the issues, decide which ones you can live with and which require urgent attention before buying. This decision depends on your tolerance for repairs, your budget, and the property’s overall value.

• If the report shows serious structural problems or active pest infestations, these usually need to be fixed before you proceed.

• Some minor defects might be manageable after you move in, especially if they don’t affect safety or major systems.

• Consider the cost of repairs and whether you can negotiate a price reduction or ask the seller to fix the problems.

  
  

For example, if the report reveals termite damage in a non-structural area, you might decide to treat the problem after purchase but insist on a professional pest treatment before settlement.

Contact the Building and Pest Inspector

After reviewing the report, call the inspector who conducted it. This conversation is vital for clarifying any confusing points and understanding the risks involved.

• Ask for explanations about any technical terms or unclear findings.

• Request advice on the urgency of repairs or treatments.

• Discuss how the issues might affect the property’s value or your insurance options.

  
  

Inspectors can provide insights that the written report alone cannot. For instance, they might explain that some cracks are common in older homes and not a sign of structural failure, or that certain pest risks are seasonal.

Talk to Your Conveyancer

Your conveyancer plays a key role in the property transaction. Share the report and your concerns with them to understand your legal options.

• They can advise if you can request the seller to fix certain defects before settlement.

• They will help you draft conditions in the contract related to repairs or pest treatments.

• Your conveyancer can also explain the implications of accepting the property “as is” and what warranties or guarantees might apply.

  
  

For example, if the report shows a leaking roof, your conveyancer might suggest including a clause that requires the seller to repair it before you take ownership.

Negotiate with the Seller

Use the information from the report and your discussions to negotiate with the seller. This step can save you money or ensure the property is safe and sound when you move in.

• You might ask the seller to repair major defects.

• Alternatively, negotiate a price reduction to cover the cost of repairs you will handle.

• Sometimes, sellers agree to provide a pest treatment certificate or warranty.

  
  

Be clear and reasonable in your requests. Present the report findings as evidence to support your position.

Plan for Repairs and Maintenance

If you decide to proceed with the purchase despite some defects, plan how you will address them.

• Get quotes from qualified tradespeople for repairs.

• Schedule urgent fixes soon after moving in.

• Set reminders for ongoing maintenance tasks suggested in the report.

  
  

For example, if the report recommends clearing gutters to prevent water damage, add this to your home maintenance calendar.

Monitor the Property Over Time

Even after repairs, keep an eye on areas flagged in the report. Some issues may develop slowly or reoccur.

• Regularly inspect for signs of pests or water damage.

• Maintain a record of repairs and inspections.

• Stay in touch with professionals for periodic checks.

  
  

This proactive approach helps protect your investment and avoid costly problems later.