Buying guide
The 5 best building inspectors in Christchurch
Need to check something out? These are your best options.
Last updated: 10 October 2024
Choosing a building inspector in Christchurch can be tricky. There are dozens of options and most of them offer a fairly similar service, at a comparable price.
That said, buying property is a huge decision, not to be taken lightly, and a good building inspector can make all the difference.To make your search a little easier, we’ve rounded up five of the best reviewed building inspectors in Christchurch.
1. Savvy Houz inspections
- 211 five star reviews on Google.
Building reports from $590 incl GST*
Additional services: Building inspections, moisture screening, subfloor inspections via robot, thermal imaging, floor level reports and EQC claims.
Savvy Houz Inspections have the best reviews of any building inspector in Christchurch. Customers praise their easy to follow, colour coded reports, thorough inspections, fast turn around times and reasonable prices. Many reviewers mentioned Dean’s over-and-above service and 24 hour turnaround.
2. New Zealand Building Inspections (CheckHome)
139 five star reviews on Google.
Building reports from $546.25 incl GST* (One bedroom)
Additional services: Building inspections, high precision level assessment, infrared imaging, sub floor robot inspection, drone inspections, meth testing and EQC sign off.
New Zealand Building Inspections (NZBI) customers mention that company director Ben is a great communicator and that the reports were provided quickly, with plenty of detail. Many reviewers share that they have used Ben for multiple purchases and that he helped them make an informed decision.
3. Inspected Residential
- 91 five star reviews on Google.
Building reports from $458.85 incl GST
Services: Building inspections, healthy Homes inspection, EQC scope of works review, floor level survey, invasive/non-invasive moisture test, aerial roof inspection.
Inspected Residential’s reviews praise the service provided by Brandon and Adam, as well as same day turn around, and their detailed, easy to understand reports. Customers also mention that both inspectors were very helpful answering questions and making recommendations after the report was delivered.
Most building inspections will not include invasive testing.
4. Jim’s Building Inspections
- 70 five star reviews on Google.
Building report price not disclosed.
Services: Building reports, asbestos testing, toxicology report (meth testing), handover inspection, pre purchase inspections.
Jim’s is a franchise business with branches all over the country. Their Christchurch office is run by two locals, Cameron and Don, who’ve received perfect feedback in reviews. Customers say the photographs were clear, and the comprehensive reports featured both descriptions of issues along with recommended solutions. Customers also mention quick turnaround times and great customer service.
5. Christchurch Property Inspections
- 31 five star reviews on Google.
Buildings reports from $517.5 incl GST.
Services: Pre-purchase and pre-sale inspections, thermal imaging inspections.
Christchurch Property Inspections only has 31 reviews on Google but they’re absolutely glowing. Customers praised their prompt, thorough inspections and many reviewers described service that was consistently above and beyond expectations, making the buying and selling process easier and less stressful.
What should a building inspector look at?
When your building inspector visits the property they’ll look out for all visible issues, defects and possible maintenance requirements in the property. That could include signs of weathertightness problems, structural problems and much more.
Once they’ve visited. they’ll provide a report, which will usually go room to room and comment on the condition of each space. Photos are usually provided with descriptions of any issues spotted and (sometimes) recommendations on how to fix the problems. Your report should cover:
Inside the property: the floors, walls, ceilings, kitchen cabinetry, fixtures and fittings (most inspections do not test appliances).
The condition of the roof guttering, and chimneys.
Any visible signs that indicate the condition of plumbing or drainage systems.
Any visible signs that indicate the condition of electrical systems.
Exterior structures, any sheds, garages, sleepouts. Fences, paths, paved areas, decks and the property grounds.
Underfloor spaces: the foundations, timber framing, piles and ground moisture.
Ceiling space, insulation and timber framing.
Every inspection is different, but some won’t cover outbuildings like sheds, fences around the property, or spaces such as the underfloor or ceiling if access is limited. Make sure you ask your inspector if you’d like them to look at any areas separate to the main property.
If you need more detail it's worth asking the building inspector.
What to expect
When you get in touch with your building inspector, they’ll indicate when they’re free and arrange for access. If you’re selling your home they’ll arrange a time with you, if you’re buying a home they’ll contact the real estate agent or vendor. If the property is tenanted they’ll organise with the property manager. They’ll perform the inspection on the arranged date, then soon after, they’ll provide a detailed report including photos and room-by-room descriptions of the property’s condition.
After you’ve received the report it’s a great idea to call your inspector and have a chat about what they found. They may be able to provide very rough cost estimates to fix problems, explain parts of the report you don’t understand or give more information on any serious problems.
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