Buyer GuidesBy PrimeCheck · 2 min read
A Melbourne buyer’s timeline for organising access, choosing an inspection scope and reviewing the report before auction day.
If you plan to bid at a Melbourne property auction, arrange the building inspection while there is still time to read the report and ask questions. Consumer Affairs Victoria says that purchases at auction have no cooling-off period. Use the time before the auction to confirm the inspection scope, review the findings and speak with your adviser about the contract. Consumer Affairs Victoria’s auction guidance
Work backwards from auction day
As soon as you are serious about a property, tell the inspector the address, auction date, type of property and any defects you noticed at the open home. Ask the agent when the inspector can access the property and whether the relevant roof space, subfloor, garage or other areas will be accessible. Give the inspector the access contact and confirm when the written report can be delivered. If the timing is tight, ask what can realistically be inspected before you commit to a booking.
Choose the scope for the property
Ask what the proposed inspection covers and whether a timber pest inspection is included or needs to be arranged separately. Share concerns such as cracking, water stains or a recently renovated bathroom. For a unit or townhouse, ask which areas the inspector can assess and which documents or common property concerns need a separate check. Compare the scope and access requirements with PrimeCheck’s building and pest inspection service.
Use the report to make a list of follow-up questions
Read the summary, the defect photos and the sections that record access limitations. Ask the inspector which findings need prompt specialist advice and which are routine maintenance. For an area the inspector could not access, ask what information would help close that gap. If the report recommends further assessment, try to arrange it before deciding how much you are prepared to bid. The sample inspection report shows how findings can be presented.
Keep the building review and the contract review moving
Give your conveyancer or solicitor time to review the contract while the inspection is being organised. Send any issues that need a contract or disclosure question to the adviser handling the purchase. If you are inspecting a property in Rowville, Dandenong or elsewhere in metropolitan Melbourne, share the address and auction deadline when you request an inspection. PrimeCheck pre-purchase inspections in Melbourne
- Melbourne
- pre-purchase inspection
- property auction
