Buying a property in Melbourne is an exciting step, whether you are upsizing for a growing family, downsizing after many years, or investing in a rental. But excitement should never overshadow caution. A home may look perfect at first glance, yet behind fresh paint or new carpet there can be hidden problems. The best safeguard is a professional property inspection carried out by an experienced and independent inspector.
The challenge is that inspection services can vary in quality. Some inspectors deliver detailed, useful reports while others provide vague notes that leave buyers more confused than reassured. The key to making the right choice is asking the right questions before you book.
This guide outlines ten essential questions to help you evaluate services for property inspections in Melbourne. The answers will give you confidence that your inspector is thorough, qualified and working in your best interest.
Why Asking Questions Matters
When the Melbourne property market moves quickly, buyers often have very little time to make decisions. Cooling-off periods can be short and auction purchases usually leave no room for second thoughts. A rushed or inadequate inspection puts you at risk of discovering costly problems after the contract is signed.
Asking these questions in advance ensures you know exactly what you are paying for, how comprehensive the inspection will be, and whether the inspector has the right experience.
1. Are You Registered and Insured?
Always confirm that the inspector is registered with the Victorian Building Authority and carries professional indemnity and public liability insurance. These credentials mean they are qualified to assess residential structures and accountable for the accuracy of their reports.
At Inspect East Building Inspections, every inspector is VBA registered, insured and brings years of hands-on building experience.
2. Can I Review a Sample Report?
A report is the product you are buying, so it makes sense to check its quality. A reliable inspector should be willing to share a recent sample.
Look for reports that are clear, easy to navigate and supported by photographs. Each defect should be explained in plain language with an indication of whether it is a minor maintenance item or a significant issue. Reports that are filled with jargon or lack detail will not help you make confident decisions.
3. What Areas of the Property Do You Inspect?
Comprehensive property inspections in Melbourne should cover all accessible areas. This includes interior walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows, along with exterior cladding, brickwork, gutters, eaves and balconies. Roof spaces, subfloors, drainage, ventilation and safety features should also be assessed.
Moisture testing, observations of plumbing and electrical fittings, and identification of trip hazards or non-compliant stairs are important elements of a thorough inspection.
You can read more about the scope of our home and house inspections in Melbourne, which provide a detailed overview of what buyers should expect.
4. What Is Excluded from the Inspection?
Just as important as what is covered is what is not. Standard inspections generally exclude areas that are locked or inaccessible, hidden plumbing and wiring, appliances, and tests for asbestos or hazardous materials. Pool safety checks and pest inspections are also separate services.
If you are concerned about termites or timber pests, it is best to combine services. A building and pest inspection in Melbourne provides a more complete picture of potential risks.
5. How Will Access Be Managed?
Organising access to the property can be stressful, particularly if you do not yet have the keys. A professional inspector should coordinate directly with the selling agent or vendor to arrange access. They should also make sure that areas like the roof cavity or subfloor are available for inspection.
If access is denied to any section of the property, it is important that this is recorded clearly in the report.
6. How Long Will the Inspection and Reporting Take?
Most inspections take between one and a half to three hours depending on the property’s size and condition. Reports should be delivered within 24 hours, especially in Melbourne where time is often limited by auction dates or short settlement deadlines.
At Inspect East, we provide prompt and detailed reports so buyers can make decisions without unnecessary delays.
7. Can I Speak With You About the Findings?
Even the clearest report may raise questions. A professional inspector should be willing to discuss the findings, either on the phone or in person, and explain which issues require urgent attention and which are routine maintenance.
Inspectors who are unwilling to provide this support may not be the right choice. At Inspect East, every client has the opportunity to talk through their report in detail.
8. Are You Independent?
Independence is one of the most important qualities in an inspector. Inspectors who are closely tied to real estate agents, developers or builders may be pressured to soften their findings.
Ask directly if the inspector works solely for the client. At Inspect East, we are fully independent. Our role is to provide unbiased advice that protects the buyer, not the seller.
9. Do You Provide Different Types of Inspections?
Not every property inspection serves the same purpose. Buyers need different insights compared to homeowners preparing to renovate or investors planning long-term maintenance.
Look for services that include pre-purchase inspections, pre-auction assessments, new build handover checks, structural inspections before renovations, and annual maintenance reports. Inspect East offers a full range of tailored inspection options so clients receive information suited to their stage in the property journey.
10. How Should I Prepare for the Inspection?
Most of the preparation will be handled by the inspector, but there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother. Notify the inspector about any specific concerns you have noticed, ensure keys or codes are available for locked areas, and let the selling agent know to provide access to roof spaces or subfloors. If pets are on the property, secure them before the inspection.
Simple preparation ensures the inspector can complete a full assessment without interruptions.
The Ten Questions Checklist
Here is a quick reference list of the ten questions every buyer should ask:
- Are you registered and insured?
- Can I see a sample report?
- What areas of the property will you inspect?
- What is excluded from the inspection?
- How will access be managed?
- How long will the inspection and reporting take?
- Can I speak with you about the findings?
- Are you independent?
- Do you provide different types of inspections?
- How should I prepare for the inspection?
Final Thoughts
Choosing a provider for property inspections in Melbourne is not just about ticking a box in the buying process. It is about protecting your financial future and ensuring your home is safe and structurally sound. Asking the right questions helps you avoid vague promises and ensures your inspector is working only in your best interests.
Inspect East Building Inspections is committed to delivering independent, thorough and clear inspections across Melbourne. If you would like to discuss your property or have questions of your own, you can get in touch with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I ask before booking a property inspection?
Ask about the inspector’s registration and insurance, the scope of the inspection, what is excluded, turnaround times, and whether they are independent.
How detailed is a property inspection report?
A good report outlines major and minor defects, includes photographs, and provides practical recommendations for repair or monitoring.
Are property inspections only for older homes?
No. New homes often have defects too, including poor workmanship, incomplete finishes or non-compliance with standards.
Why is independence important?
An independent inspector provides an unbiased assessment without influence from sellers, agents or developers.
Where can I book a trusted property inspection in Melbourne?
You can arrange an inspection with Inspect East Building Inspections to receive an independent and comprehensive assessment.