Last Updated: October 26, 2026
Quick Summary
A pest inspection before buying gives you a clear picture of what you’re purchasing and provides leverage in negotiations to protect your investment. This independent assessment identifies termite damage, wood rot, infestations and other issues that could cost thousands to fix.
- A pest inspection includes checking timber, subfloors, roof spaces, walls, bathrooms, kitchens and external areas for pest activity and damage
- You can receive your detailed written report within 24 hours of inspection
- If termites are found, you can renegotiate the price, ask the seller to treat, or withdraw from the purchase before settlement
- An independent inspection gives you a fresh assessment rather than relying on the seller’s report
Table of Contents
- Why a Pest Inspection Before Buying Matters
- What Does a Pest Inspection Include
- Pre-Purchase Pest Inspection: What You Need to Know
- How Long Does a Pest Inspection Take
- What to Do if Termites Are Found Before Settlement
- Independent Inspections vs. Seller’s Reports
- Booking Your Pest Inspection Today
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why a Pest Inspection Before Buying Matters
Buying a house is likely the biggest financial decision you’ll make. A pest inspection before buying gives you a clear picture of what you’re actually purchasing.
A fresh, independent assessment gives you leverage in negotiations and protects your investment. At Resicert, we’ve completed over 150,000 inspections since 2009.
What Does a Pest Inspection Include
- Timber and framing: checking for termite damage, wood rot, and moisture problems
- Subfloor areas: looking for active infestations and conducive conditions
- Roof spaces: inspecting for pest activity and water damage
- Walls and cavities: identifying entry points and nesting areas
- Bathrooms and kitchens: checking for moisture, leaks, and pest access
- External areas: examining the perimeter for termite galleries, rodent burrows, and conducive conditions
A report includes 50-100 photos.
The report should be clear and jargon-free.
Pre-Purchase Pest Inspection: What You Need to Know
Building and pest inspection requirements
You’ll receive a detailed written report. Read it carefully. Don’t skim it.
How Long Does a Pest Inspection Take
You can have your report within 24 hours.
What to Do if Termites Are Found Before Settlement
First, get a specialist termite inspection. A general pest inspection identifies that termites are present. A dedicated termite inspection determines how extensive the damage is and what treatment options exist. Termite control standards in Australia guide how these inspections are conducted and what treatments are approved.
- Renegotiate the price: Ask the seller to reduce the purchase price to cover termite treatment and any timber repairs. Get quotes from treatment specialists so you know the actual cost.
- Ask the seller to treat: Request that the seller arrange and pay for professional termite treatment before settlement. Ensure the treatment includes a warranty.
- Withdraw from the purchase: If the damage is extensive and treatment is expensive, you may choose to walk away. Your pest inspection before buying gives you that right.
If termites are discovered, you have three main options to consider before settlement.
| Option | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Renegotiate price | Ask seller to reduce purchase price to cover treatment and repairs | Reduces your financial burden |
| Seller treats | Request seller arranges and pays for professional treatment before settlement | Seller bears the cost |
| Withdraw | Walk away from the purchase if damage is extensive | Protects you from major expense |
Independent Inspections vs. Seller’s Reports
An independent inspection gives you a fresh assessment.
At Resicert, we provide independent assessments. We use moisture testing and thermal imaging where appropriate. Our reports are designed to give you confidence in your purchase decision.
Booking Your Pest Inspection Today
- The property address
- The settlement date (so you know your deadline)
- Any specific concerns you have (previous pest activity, visible damage, moisture issues)
Consumer protection guidance for property inspections
Get a local, thorough building and pest inspection in Canberra. We match any comparable competitor’s price and deliver reports within 24 hours. Book your inspection today and buy with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pest inspection legally required when buying a holeverage?
Pest inspections are not legally mandatory in all circumstances, but they are strongly recommended. Some lenders require a pest inspection before approving a mortgage. Contract conditions may also stipulate one. Even where not required, a pest inspection before buying protects you from expensive infestations like termites, which can caleverage structural damage costing tens of thousands of dollars to repair.
What does a pre-purchase pest inspection check?
Resicert leverages moisture testing and thermal imaging where appropriate.
How long does a pest inspection take?
You can expect a report within 24 hours, with 50-100 photos.
What should I do if termites are found before settlement?
If termites are discovered before settlement, you have several options: negotiate a price reduction to cover treatment costs, request the seller arrange and pay for professional treatment before settlement, or withdraw from the purchase if the infestation is severe. Document all findings with your inspector’s report and seek legal advice from your conveyancer. Acting quickly is essential, as termite damage can worsen rapidly and affect your mortgage approval.
A pest inspection before buying isn’t optional, it’s essential due diligence. It protects your investment, gives you negotiating power, and prevents expensive surprises after settlement. The inspection costs a modest amount and takes a few hours. The protection it provides is worth far more. Schedule yours before you exchange contracts, and make your property purchase decision from a position of knowledge, not hope.
