Prior to purchasing a property it is advisable to conduct a range of searches to place the buyer in an informed position. Our conveyancing solicitor can assist with the arrangement of these searches.

Some of the searches that can be obtained are as follows:

Building inspection

The buyer is not provided with any guarantees about the structural soundness of the dwelling.
Therefore it is advisable that a building inspection be undertaken before the exchange of
contracts. A building inspection checks structural soundness, indicating visible quality defects and
necessary repairs.

Pest inspection

It is recommended that you have any building inspected for pests before buying it. This may be a
requirement of the lending authority. Check that the company carrying out the inspection carries
professional indemnity insurance. This will cover the company, and therefore your costs, should
the company make a mistake.

Strata inspection

The seller’s solicitor will supply the prospective buyer with a certificate under Section 109 which
should show relevant information about the management committee, insurances, cost of levies,
deeds, books etc. The prospective buyer can also arrange for a pre-purchase strata inspection
covering other written records. This inspection, although optional, is recommended as there can
be problems that might otherwise go undetected. It would need to be carried out before the
exchange of contracts.