Investors lose big by cutting building inspection corners
Cheap building checks leave investors blind to fatal property flaws.
PRPTY360 founder and property strategist Julian Fadini said while investors want a good deal, they often make a $100 mistake in choosing a cheaper pest and building inspector that could cost them thousands down the line.
“People are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on an investment property and then turning around to save $100 by choosing the cheapest inspector they can find,” Fadini said.
“It’s madness. These inspectors often miss the big stuff and by the time you realise it, it’s too late.”
Fadini said that investors who spend millions of dollars on investment properties in a bid to accrue capital should not try to save on reports.
“They’re cheap for a reason, they’re not doing the job properly.”
Fadini said choosing the right building inspector can be the difference between a smart investment and a costly mistake.
He said cheap inspections often miss serious issues, such as structural damage, faulty wiring, or termites, often due to rushed walkthroughs, outdated tools, and inexperienced inspectors.
“These inspectors are often in and out in under an hour. Some don’t even inspect the roof cavity or the subfloor.”
“Others use vague checklists and produce one-size-fits-all reports that barely scratch the surface,” Fadini said.
According to Fadini, cutting corners on inspections may save money upfront but can derail an investor’s strategy with costly, unforeseen complications down the track.
He said investors can then face financial disaster when a property that appears rent-ready turns out uninhabitable or non-compliant, draining cash flow and turning potential assets into liabilities.
“Saving money is smart, but cutting corners on something as critical as a building inspection is reckless,” he said.
“A cheap inspection might cost $300. A missed structural issue could cost you $80,000. Which one sounds more expensive now,” he said.
Fadini said serious investors view quality building inspections as vital safeguards that uncover hidden issues and protect long-term wealth, urging them to prioritise inspector qualifications, experience, insurance, and clear communication over cost.
“A great inspector will take the time, use the right tools, and deliver a comprehensive report that tells you exactly what you’re buying,” he said.
“If you don’t invest in a proper inspection, you’re not buying a property; you’re buying a gamble, and most people can’t afford to lose,” he concluded.