A verbal building inspection is a simple way to get expert eyes on a property. One of our qualified and experienced building inspectors will walk through the property with you, looking at the whole building or focusing on the areas you’re most concerned about. At the end, we’ll share what we’ve found in a clear, face-to-face conversation.
This gives you immediate, practical feedback on how the building is performing, so you can decide what to do next with confidence.
All of our verbal inspections are carried out by qualified building inspectors with hands-on trade experience, and where compliance advice is needed, by our building surveyor. We bring the same level of care and investigation as we would for a full written report, but share the findings with you directly, on the spot. The feedback you receive is practical, independent, and focused on giving you the knowledge to make informed property decisions.
Because this service does not include a written report, it:
If you’re buying, we strongly recommend following up with a full written pre-purchase building report before completing a purchase.
If you’re a homeowner, seller, or builder using this service for general advice, we can also provide a short written summary of our findings on request.
Some common situations where a verbal inspection is a good choice
Verbal inspections are available for both full-property checks and single-area reviews. Pricing depends on the property size, location, and scope of the inspection.
👉 Contact us today for a quick quote and to book your verbal building inspection.
Can I use a verbal building inspection when buying a house?
Yes, but only as an early step. A verbal inspection can highlight potential issues and help you decide whether to pursue a property. However, banks, insurers, and solicitors will usually require a full written building report before you complete a purchase (bonus with a written report is that it also gives you a written document to refer to as you decide to tackle maintenance in your ownship)
What’s the difference between a verbal building inspection and a written report?
The inspection process is the same; the difference is in how the findings are delivered. With a verbal inspection, you get feedback face-to-face, on the spot, but no written record. A full report provides detailed written documentation you can use for due diligence, negotiations, or legal purposes.
Who is a verbal building inspection best suited for?
Homeowners wanting property maintenance advice, sellers preparing to list, buyers wanting early insights, or renovators checking feasibility before seeking quotes. Builders can also use it as a second opinion before making subcontractor payments or passing a council inspection.
Can I get a written summary of a verbal inspection?
Yes, but only in non-purchase situations (such as maintenance advice, renovation planning, or pre-sale checks). Buyers should always obtain a full written building report before completing a purchase.
Can you help me further if issues are identified during the inspection?
Yes. If we find issues, we’ll talk through what they mean and whether they need further investigation, maintenance or remediation, and can provide advice on the options best suited to the particular house.
Can you provide cost estimates during a verbal inspection?
We can give you a sense of the likely scale of repairs or maintenance if issues are identified. Where appropriate, we’ll explain whether the work is typically minor, moderate, or significant, and suggest the type of tradesperson you should approach for quotes and what to consider in that scope. For buyers needing documented costs, this can be included in our full written reports.
Inquest Property Inspections provides Certified Property Inspection services to the Wellington Region.
Our services include Pre-Purchase and Pre-sale Inspections, Weathertightness Inspections, Maintenance Reports, and Building Consultancy.
