Are builders reports worth it?

When you’re buying a property, you might be wondering, are builders reports worth it? To some, they feel like just another item on the checklist before going unconditional. But when done properly, a building report can do much more than tick a box, it can become a powerful tool for protecting your money, helping you negotiate, walk away, or plan ahead with confidence.

At InQuest, we believe your building report should count, not just technically, but strategically and legally too.

It’s Not Just About Defects – It’s About What You Can Do With Them

A well-prepared building report doesn’t just describe moisture readings, wall cracks, or cladding types. Done properly, it becomes a tool for negotiation, and in some cases, a basis for legal remedies under your Sale and Purchase Agreement.

But here’s the key: not every inspector is willing, or able to support you through that process.

Our Role: Independent, Supportive, Legally Aware

We’re not lawyers, and we’re not your agent. But we are independent professionals who understand how building reports can support equitable set-off or price adjustment. We know how to structure our findings so they stand up to scrutiny.

• We clearly define what was inspected and what wasn’t
• We provide risk-informed context around the issues, without exaggeration
• We retain our independence, so if the matter goes legal, our findings remain credible and impartial

This is a fine line, it’s important we support you, without becoming your advocate, and that’s exactly where our value lies.

What Is Equitable Set-Off, and Why Does It Matter?

Clause 10 of the standard ADLS Sale and Purchase Agreement allows a purchaser to retain part of the purchase price where a valid claim exists. This might apply where:

• The vendor failed to disclose a material defect
• A known issue creates immediate financial liability
• Urgent repairs are required for compliance, safety, or habitability

We don’t tell you how to negotiate. What we do is document the issues, their likely cause and consequence, and their relevance under the Building Code or consent conditions – so you or your legal team have the foundation to act with confidence, giving you building report buyer protection.

Let InQuest Be Your Safety Net

Your pre-purchase building report shouldn’t be just a snapshot; it should be a legal and financial safeguard when done properly. At InQuest, we deliver reports designed to protect you.

📞 Book your inspection today
Call 021 855 161 or visit www.inquest.co.nz

Registered Building Inspector, Certified Building Surveyor
Specialists in NZS 4306 and building legislation alignment
Wellington-based and soon to be operating in your area.
License opportunities are available; building inspectors apply within.