What Is Inspected During a Building and Pest Inspection and What’s Not
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, a building and pest inspection is a crucial part of the process, learn What Is Inspected During a Building and Pest Inspection and What’s Not. It helps uncover potential issues that may not be visible during a standard property viewing. At Certified Home Inspections, we offer comprehensive inspections with same-day reports, giving you the knowledge you need to make confident decisions.
But what exactly is included in our inspections—and what isn’t? Let’s break it down.
✅ What Areas We Inspect
Our licensed inspectors perform a non-invasive, visual assessment of all accessible areas, following Australian Standards (AS4349.1 and AS4349.3). We also use advanced tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging and the I Tracker Pro to detect hidden concerns.
Structural Elements
- Foundations and footings
- Roof framing and ceiling structure
- Internal/external walls and subfloors
- Flooring and structural supports
Internal and External Areas
- Walls, ceilings, windows, doors
- Decks, balconies, stairs, handrails
- External cladding and fascias
- Surface drainage and retaining walls (where accessible)
- Fencing
Roof Exterior & Roof Void
- Broken tiles, rusted sheeting, roof leaks
- Pest activity or insulation issues in the roof cavity
- Damaged gutters, downpipes, and flashings
Subfloor Area
- Timber rot, dampness, drainage
- Pest activity or termite damage
- Borer damage and activity
- Termite Protection
Timber Pest Inspection
- Active termites
- Termite damage (past or present)
- Wood borers and fungal decay
- Conditions conducive to pest infestations
- Termite protection if any
❌ What’s Not Inspected
Despite being thorough, some items are outside the scope of a standard building and pest inspection:
Electrical Systems
We don’t inspect wiring, power points, switchboards, or smoke alarms. If visible faults (e.g. exposed wires) are found, they’ll be noted, but a licensed electrician is required for full testing.
Plumbing and Drainage
We don’t test water pressure, hot water systems, or underground drainage. Visible leaks or water stains will be included in your report, with a recommendation to consult a licensed plumber to investigate further.
Areas That Are Inaccessible
Locked or obstructed areas, concealed spaces, and unsafe roofs are excluded.
Cosmetic Issues
We focus on major structural defects, not minor wear and tear like paint chips or scratched flooring but they are noted if excessive.
Pools and Spas
Swimming pools, spas, and safety barriers are not included unless a separate pool safety inspection is requested. The building inspection does note if the pool is not compliant.
Council Approvals and Compliance
We do not check for council approvals or zoning compliance. Contact your local council or private certifier or conveyancer for this information. We however comment on outbuildings if they seem not to be compliant which may indicate they might not be council approved.
Environmental Hazards
Additionally the inspection does not include asbestos, mould (unless visible), lead paint, or soil contamination. These require specialist testing. We however we comment on materials believed to be asbestos and recommend they be tested.
What Is Inspected During a Building and Pest Inspection – And What’s Not
✅ Why Choose Certified Home Inspections?
With over [ 20 years] of experience, Certified Home Inspections offers:
- Licensed and insured inspectors
- Same-day digital reports
- Advanced tools including thermal imaging and I Tracker Pro
- Service across Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, and the Gold Coast
📅 Book Your Building and Pest Inspection Today
Buy or sell with confidence. Get a clear, detailed inspection from a team you can trust.
📞 Call us today on tel:1800 862 683
🖱️ Or book your inspection online in minutes.
Certified Home Inspections – Your peace of mind, delivered fast.