How Much Does a Building Inspection Cost?

We spoke to over 500 local service providers in Australia to give you an insight into how much building inspections cost.

The national averages range between $352 and $590.

Read on below to get specific prices for your city, building type and inspection type.

Average Costs

These are the average building inspection costs around Australia:

• Unit: $352
• Town House: $410
• Small House: $425
• Medium House: $505
• Large House: $590

Click on the cities in the tables below to get a full breakdown of costs by type/size of building, and costs of Building Inspections vs Pest Inspections vs Combined Building & Pest Inspections.

Costs in Queensland

City	Unit	Town House	Small House	Medium House	Large House
Brisbane	$425	$550	$650	$750	$850
Ipswich	$313	$327	$300	$390	$480
Gold Coast	$320	$353	$325	$375	$440
Sunshine Coast	$320	$370	$320	$355	$425
Townsville	$275	$350	$375	$425	$475
Cairns	$320	$370	$300	$365	$435
Mackay	$275	$375	$375	$425	$475
Toowoomba	$317	$353	$285	$355	$430

Costs in New South Wales

City	Unit	Town House	Small House	Medium House	Large House
Sydney	$320	$360	$400	$440	$500
Newcastle	$280	$310	$350	$390	$450
Wollongong	$260	$300	$340	$380	$430

Costs in Victoria

City	Unit	Town House	Small House	Medium House	Large House
Melbourne	$250	$300	$350	$400	$450
Geelong	$220	$270	$320	$370	$420
Bendigo	$200	$250	$300	$350	$400
Ballarat	$210	$260	$310	$360	$410

Saving on Inspection Costs

See our article on how you can save hundreds on your next building inspection.

Factors Influencing Cost

Location of the Property

The cost of a building inspection is heavily influenced by its location. For instance, inspections in metropolitan areas are generally more expensive than those in regional or rural areas. This variation is due to the higher operational costs and demand for services in urban locations. For example, in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, a standard building inspection can range from $400 to $1,500, reflecting the broad spectrum of property types and inspection complexities in these areas. Conversely, in more regional areas, such as smaller towns or rural settings, the cost may be lower due to reduced demand and operational expenses.

Size and Type of the Property

Another significant factor affecting the cost of a building inspection is the size and type of the property. Different types of properties, such as apartments, townhouses, and houses, require varying levels of inspection detail. For instance, a small apartment or unit may cost less to inspect than a large house due to the differences in size and complexity. In Perth, for example, the inspection cost for a single-story home ranges from about $250 to $990, with larger homes potentially incurring additional charges. The property type also plays a role; inspecting a townhouse might cost more than an apartment but less than a standalone house.

Scope and Depth of the Inspection

The scope of the building inspection is another crucial factor. Standard inspections typically cover structural elements like walls, roofs, and foundations. However, more comprehensive inspections that include pest control, electrical systems, plumbing, or even asbestos checks can increase the cost. For instance, adding a termite inspection in Perth can cost an additional $130 to $445, depending on the inspector’s qualifications and the size of the home. The more detailed and extensive the inspection, the higher the cost is likely to be.

Qualifications and Experience of the Inspector

The qualifications and experience of the building inspector also play a crucial role in determining the cost. Licensed and experienced inspectors may charge more for their services due to their expertise and reliability. Choosing a qualified inspector is essential for a thorough and accurate assessment of the property’s condition. For example, in Adelaide, the cost of a building inspection can vary greatly depending on the inspector’s qualifications and experience. What qualifications should your inspector have?

Additional Services and Reports

Finally, additional services and reports can also affect the overall cost of a building inspection. Services such as asbestos inspections, swimming pool inspections, or specialised reports like structural engineering reports can add to the total cost. For instance, in Perth, a comprehensive pool inspection can cost around $295. These additional services are often necessary for a complete understanding of the property’s condition but do come at an extra cost.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a building inspection is influenced by various factors including location, property size and type, the inspection’s scope and depth, the inspector’s qualifications, and any additional services required. Prospective property buyers and sellers must consider these factors when budgeting for a building inspection. Remember, investing in a thorough and professional building inspection can save you from future costs associated with undetected property issues.

For those looking to get a building inspection, it’s recommended to obtain quotes from several reputable inspectors and compare their services and prices. This will ensure you receive a high-quality inspection at a fair price, tailored to your specific needs.