YES!  ACT legislation prohibits a person advertising a property for sale without a comprehensive package of information about your property including reports on building, pests (termites), compliance (planning permissions for all structures) and energy rating.

How do I provide these reports to my Solicitor prior to advertising my property?

Don’t worry!  It might sound like a lot of administration but at Lawrie Paul Building Services we manage the whole thing for you.  We will take your solicitors contact details and liaise directly with them on all aspects of your inspections if you prefer. Once you book Lawrie Paul Building Services you can choose to have as much or as little involvement with your inspections as you like.

Do the inspections add extra expense to the sale of my house?

No. Once the house is sold the seller is actually reimbursed 100% of the cost of the building and pest inspection reports by the buyer. 

What happens if I have a structure on my property that does not have planning permission?

Current legislation only requires that an unapproved structure is disclosed, which is fully covered within the compliance report, however if you wish to have the struture approved so as not to impact on your sale, we at Lawrie Paul Building Services are only too happy to give advise and recommendations to ahieve approval.

Does the seller have to provide inspection reports for an apartment or Unit?
 
No.  In the ACT if you are purchasing a unit or apartment the seller doesn’t have to provide an inspection package unlike when they are selling a house.  So if you are buying an apartment or unit it is in your best interests to obtain your own building compliance and pest report from the most reputable in the business.  With a Lawrie Paul Building services report you have the peace of mind that the huge purchase you are making does not have any unforseen problems in the future.

Are all Building Inspections equal?

No.  As reported in a recent article in the Canberra Times there are unqualified inspectors in the ACT.  A trend is emerging in which home sellers are engaging inspectors who issue favourable reports in preference to qualified inspectors who may issue a more thorough and detailed report. Unfortunately such practice is causing very costly mistakes to buyers and in some instances sellers are even being sued.

How do I know Lawrie Paul Building Services is my best choice?

At Lawrie Paul Building Services we believe it is important to protect both parties, a thorough and detailed report provides the "Seller" not just with the unbiased report but a full consultation on how best to repair damage before sale.  Lawrie Paul’s reputation is so solid in the ACT region that the Seller also has the confidence that the "Buyer" will not hold up settlement because the "Buyer" is not satisfied with the reports that have been provided by the Seller.And of course at Lawrie Paul Building Services we provide the Buyer with the confidence that their new home has been thoroughly inspected by an unbiased, inspector with over 40 years experience and a whole lot of integrity.

How long does it take to get my inspection report to my solicitor?

At Lawrie Paul Building Services we have an office of trained professionals who create our comprehensive reports from Lawrie’s unbiased assessment.  We are therefore able to provide the report to you and your solicitor within just 24 hours of completion of your inspection. 

If I am the buyer can I get inspection reports done in addition to the one provided by the seller?

YES!  And unless your seller has used Lawrie Paul Building Services  to do the inspection this is certainly something you should consider when buying your most valuable asset.  Sadly there are inspectors out there who are poorly qualified, uninsured or are purposely acting in the bias of the seller.  Here at Lawrie Paul Buildiing Services we are often asked by Buyers to reinspect properties that already have a report provided by the Seller. This is an indication of the trust clients place in Lawrie Paul Building Services due to our thoroughness, professionalism & independence.

If I am buying a New Construction is an Inspection necessary?

Absolutely! ‘New’ is no guarantee against problems. While many new homes are well built, we regularly find defects. To this end we recommend a Lawrie Paul Building Services report to be carried out prior to completion of the ninty day maintenance period.

Can a Property "FAIL" an Inspection?

No. A professional inspection is an examination of the property's current condition. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, nor a council inspection, which verifies compliance to local government legislation. Lawrie Paul Building Services will not pass or fail a property, but will describe in a comprehensive report its physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

Do I Need Separate Firms for Building and Termite Inspections?

No.  Lawrie Paul Building Services provide individual highly qualified inspectors for each report.  And both Lawrie and our Pest Control technician Michael know how to spot for both building and termite damage so you can be doubly sure that nothing is missed.

What If My Report Reveals Problems?

No property is perfect. If your inspector identifies defects, it doesn't usually mean the property is not fit only that you will know in advance what to expect and can solve any minor problems before they become a real hazard.

Can You Quote My Renovation Costs?

Lawrie Paul  has years of building and renovation experience behind him. However, he endeavours to remain completely independent and not quote on renovation work. His focus is solely your inspection.

How Do Lawrie Paul Building Services Fees Compare?

Fees should not be the major consideration.  You could save many times the cost of your inspection by avoiding costs of rectifying significant problems revealed by your inspector.  However that said.  Fees for all of Lawrie Paul Building  services are very competitive, especially when you consider you're getting the most qualified inspectors available plus free ongoing support throughout the sale or purchase process.