Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a building inspection in Hobart and Tasmania?
A building inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s condition. It can be arranged before buying or selling, during construction, or as part of regular maintenance.
What’s assessed
Your inspector will examine the structure, safety, and overall integrity of the building, looking for issues such as:
Structural defects
Water ingress or dampness
Pest activity
Faulty plumbing or electrical systems
An inspection helps you identify problems early, address repairs before they worsen, and negotiate with accurate information.


2. Why do I need a building inspection?
Building inspections uncover costly issues before they become major problems. They also give sellers a clear understanding of their property’s condition, speeding up negotiations and preventing disputes.

Common issues found include:
Cracks in walls or foundations
Leaks or poor drainage
Pest infestations
Electrical safety concerns
Acting early can prevent minor defects from turning into expensive repairs.

3. Are building inspections mandatory in Tasmania?
No — for most residential purchases, inspections are not legally required. However, they are strongly recommended.
For new builds or renovations, councils often require staged inspections — for example, frame, lock-up, and completion stages — to ensure defects are addressed before final handover.


4. Who can perform building inspections in Tasmania?
Currently, there’s no licensing requirement to offer building inspections in Tasmania. However, to produce a report that can be used to terminate or renegotiate a contract, the inspector must hold Professional Indemnity insurance.
Your safest choice is an experienced, insured inspector who is also a Licensed Builder.


5. What does a standard building inspection include?
Areas inspected:
Roof and gutters
Insulation, walls, ceilings, and floors
Subfloor and foundations
Plumbing and drainage
Visual electrical assessment
Evidence of pest activity (if included)
Report format:
Your report will explain findings in plain language, with photographs so you can clearly see any issues.

6. How long does a building inspection take?
Most inspections take 1–2 hours, depending on the property’s size and condition. Reports are usually delivered within 24–48 hours so you can act quickly.

Many of the questions in this Building Inspection Hobart FAQ come from first-home buyers, interstate investors and people unfamiliar with Tasmanian contracts and defect rules.

7. How much does a building inspection cost in Hobart?
Prices vary based on property size, location, and the type of inspection. Larger homes or properties needing additional services — such as pest inspections — cost more. Request a tailored quote for an accurate figure.

8. Do I need a pest inspection in Tasmania?
Termite risk:
Termites are not a significant problem in Tasmania. While species such as Porotermes adamsoni exist, they typically inhabit dampwood and decaying timber rather than attacking sound building materials. Unlike aggressive mainland termites, they are not considered a major structural threat to homes.
Other pests:
Wood borers are common in older homes built with green timber. Rats and mice are also frequently found.
Inspection process:
Your inspector will note any signs of pests and recommend appropriate treatment or prevention measures so you can address issues early.

9. When should I book a building inspection?
Many buyers arrange inspections after signing a contract, while others book beforehand.
We recommend:
Keeping the defect clause low (around 1%)
Using the three-day cooling-off period where possible
This approach allows you to act quickly without unnecessary delays.

10. Can I attend the inspection?
Yes — and it’s a great idea. Attending allows you to ask questions and see issues in person. For best results, arrive toward the end so the inspector can complete their work before walking you through the findings.

11. What happens if issues are found?
If major defects exceed the contract threshold, you may:
Negotiate a lower price
Request repairs before settlement
Exit the contract under certain conditions
For new builds, defects are typically covered under the builder’s warranty, so early documentation is essential.

12. Are building inspections covered by insurance?
No, inspections are not part of standard home insurance. However, reputable inspectors carry Professional Indemnity insurance to protect you against incorrect or negligent advice.

If you still have questions after reading this Building Inspection Hobart FAQ, call Chris Westcott directly and get personalised advice before committing to a property.