Skip to main content
Thank you for submitting the form. Your reference number is
Inspections

What to do after getting a building and pest inspection

Two men shaking hands and smiling.
RBI team

December 11, 2025

Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. That’s why many Australians rely on a building and pest inspection clause when signing on the dotted line. This inspection provides the buyer with a detailed building inspection report highlighting potential issues such as structural defects, pest activity and safety issues.

Once you’ve received your report, the real question is: what happens next? Here’s a guide to fixing issues from your building and pest report and how to move forward with confidence.


Understanding your building and pest inspection report

Your building and pest inspection report will list any visible defects, safety hazards or timber pest concerns that were identified during the inspection. Some of the most common issues found in Australian homes can include:

Moisture in bathrooms and kitchens

Moisture is one of the most frequently reported issues in building and pest inspections. In wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, leaking pipes, poor ventilation, or failed waterproofing can lead to mould growth, swollen cabinetry and hidden structural damage. Left unchecked, water damage can not only impact the appearance of your home but can also compromise the integrity of walls and floors.

Timber pest activity or damage

Across Australia, termites are a major concern. These pests can remain hidden for years, quietly eating away at timber structures. A building and pest inspection report will highlight signs of activity such as hollow sounding timber, mudding or visible damage to timber such as skirting boards and door frames. If termite damage is found, a professional pest treatment and timber replacement are both critical steps in protecting your investment.

Roof and gutter issues

Your roof and gutters are your home’s first line of defence against the weather. A building inspection can often uncover issues such as cracked roof tiles, rusted metal sheeting, blocked gutters or inadequate drainage. These issues may seem minor but small leaks over time can lead to water damage to your home if not addressed. Regular maintenance, roof restoration or gutter replacement help ensure that your home remains weatherproof and secure.

Cracks in walls or foundations

Cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations are another common finding in building inspection reports. While hairline cracks can often be due to natural settling, larger cracks could indicate structural movement, subsidence or drainage problems. Professional assessment by a structural engineer is vital to determine if cosmetic patching or major repairs are required. Addressing these defects early safeguards your home’s stability.

Vegetation or drainage around the home

Overgrown or dense vegetation close to the property and poor drainage can create a range of defects. Trees planted too close to a home may cause root damage to foundations or block drains. Inadequate stormwater runoff can lead to pooling water around the slab or subfloor, increasing the risk of rising damp, possible pest infestations or structural issues. A building and pest inspection report will typically recommend pruning, improving drainage to the site or installing stormwater solutions to ensure your property is protected.

Prioritising repairs after your building and pest inspection

The first step in fixing defects that are found on your building and pest inspection report is to separate urgent repairs from general maintenance.

  • High priority repairs: can include items such as timber pest infestations, issues with structural instability or electrical hazards at the property. These repairs need immediate attention to ensure you, and your investment are safe.
  • Medium priority repairs: such as minor roof leaks and minor cracking. Whilst these issues might not be immediately dangerous, they can worsen over time and shouldn’t be left unresolved. 
  • Low priority repairs: could look like peeling paint or loose fittings. These repairs can be managed once you have moved into the property and have time to resolve them.

By categorising the defects, you’ll have a clearer plan of attack and can tackle the issues effectively. 

RACV Plumber fixing hotwater system.

Who fixes the defects?

If you’re purchasing a property, you might be able to use your building and pest report to negotiate with the seller to fix major issues before settlement or adjust the purchase price of the property. Once settlement of the property occurs, the responsibility to fix any defects is the responsibility of the buyer. 

DIY fixes may be tempting, but many defects found in a building and pest inspection report require professional attention. Poor-quality repairs could mask defects rather than resolve them, leading to costly surprises down the track.

Professional trades such as builders, electricians, plumbers and pest control experts can help you to repair specific problems. Organisations such as RACV Trades make home repairs and improvements even easier by having a wide range of tradies available to help. Always ensure the contractor is licensed in your state.

Move forward with confidence

A building and pest inspection report isn’t just a list of problems, it’s a road map for protecting your property. By addressing issues early, you can:

  • avoid expensive repairs down the track
  • ensure your new home is safe
  • gain peace of mind before settlement
  • maximise your property’s long-term value.

With the right advice and professional repairs, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your new home is safe for you and your family to move into it.

Ready to book your building and pest inspection?

Call our team today or email us at info@rapidbuildinginspections.com.au for a free, no obligation quote.

Call us today