Building Inspections: How to Spot Red Flags

Congratulations on deciding to get a new space! Getting a new space is such a big deal and deserves some celebration! 

Imagine you step into what looks like the perfect house. The kitchen is sleek, the floors are spotless, and the backyard? Absolute perfection. You’re already planning housewarming parties in your head.

But hold up, before you get too attached, have you checked all that there is to the house? Note that a fresh coat of paint could have covered a lot, but it won’t fix a sinking foundation or a faulty electrical system. That’s where a thorough building inspection comes in. 

So, before you say “sold!” Let’s talk about the warning signs that could turn your dream home into a financial headache.

1. Faulty Building Structures

Did you know that according to housing research done in September 2024, about 70% of buildings in Australia have quality problems? 

A house is like the human body, and the structure of the building is like the human skeleton. If the skeleton (structure) of a building is faulty, it can put a lot of financial strain and physical damage on you. So how do you know if the structure of a house is in good condition?

The foundation of a building may be shifting if you notice cracks in the walls or floors, doors that don’t close properly, or floors that feel uneven. Roof damage is another dealbreaker! If you see missing shingles, sagging rooflines, or water stains on the ceiling, then the house may have leaks or insulation problems.

There’s also the issue of walls and ceilings. Although tiny hairline cracks on the wall and tiles may be normal, large cracks or bulging drywall could mean hidden water damage. Then if the house feels like it’s falling apart at the seams, it might be a sign to walk away. 

2. Bad Wiring

You sure don’t want to live in a house that would throw you in utter darkness, blow up your appliances or even lead to a fire outbreak! If the lights flicker or dim when you plug in an appliance, that’s a sign of an overloaded or faulty electrical system. Constantly tripping breakers is another warning sign. If the electrical panel struggles to keep up with normal usage, it might need a full upgrade, which can be costly.

Pay close attention to the wiring itself. If you spot exposed wires, messy electrical panels, or outlets that don’t work, there’s a good chance the house has some DIY electrical work that could be unsafe. Faulty wiring isn’t always obvious; this is why you need professional building inspection services before choosing a new space.

3. Plumbing Issues

You can’t break into the walls to check every pipe in the building, so how do you check if a building has plumbing issues? One of the biggest indicators of plumbing trouble is low water pressure. If faucets barely trickle, the pipes might be clogged or corroded beyond repair.

Another warning sign is water stains on ceilings and walls. Brownish marks mean there’s a history of leaks, and if those stains have a musty smell, mould is likely growing there. Finally, check under the sinks and around the toilets. If you spot puddles or dampness, it could indicate hidden water damage or that the pipes are leaking.

4. Pest Infestation

Nobody wants to share their home with creepy creatures. Termites, rodents and other pests can cause serious structural damage and create a health hazard. If you see tiny wood shavings near baseboards, small holes in walls, or mud tubes along the foundation, termites might already be feasting in that building.

Rodents leave behind a lot of evidence. If you notice cabinet shavings, chewed-up wires and scratching sounds inside the walls, they are all signs of an infestation. Even if you don’t see any pests, an unusual smell, like urine or a musky odour, could mean they’re hiding somewhere. Hiring a leading building inspection company near you can save you from potential pest problems and extermination costs. 

5. Faulty HVAC Systems

HVAC repairs aren’t cheap, so ensure that the house is in good shape before you sign anything. If the house feels stuffy or has little or no airflow, that’s an indicator that the system might not be circulating air properly. Uneven temperatures from room to room are also another red flag.

If you hear strange noises like banging, rattling, or constant clicking, it could mean that something is wrong with the cooling or heating system. Finally, there might be mould or electrical issues in the house if you sense a strange smell when the heat or AC is on.

6. Environmental Factors

This red flag is common in old buildings. Old homes might contain asbestos, lead paint, or even dangerous levels of radon gas. These materials can cause serious health risks and should be avoided at all costs. If the house was built before the late 1970s, ensure you ask about lead-based paint, especially if you have kids.

Mould is another hidden environmental hazard that can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. The home may be a breeding ground for mould if it has a damp basement, peeling paint, or a lingering musty smell. 

A building may look perfect on the surface but may end up costing you health and financial damage eventually. So what do you do? Never skip the building inspection stage; pictures don’t ever do justice! Keep your eyes open and note every minute detail of the building. 

Try to go through the inspection phase with a professional inspector, who can uncover hidden problems and help you make an informed decision. At the end of the day, you can either decide to leave or negotiate repairs. Either way, you are well-informed about what you’re going into. 

Also Read: Comprehensive Building Inspection Services: What to Expect