Disputing a building inspection report can be challenging. Start by fully understanding the report. Gather evidence to support your view. Try to work with the inspector to fix any mistakes.
Understanding the report
- Before you dispute anything, read the report carefully.
- Building inspectors look at many parts of a house.
- They check the roof, walls, floors, and more. They note any problems they find. Some issues may be minor, while others could be serious.
- If something needs to be clarified, ask the inspector to explain it.
Gather evidence
- If you think the report is wrong, you’ll need proof.
- Take photos of the areas in question.
- If you can, get a second opinion from another expert.
- This could be another inspector or a specialist in the area of concern.
- Keep records of any repairs or upgrades done to the house.
- These can show that a problem has already been fixed. If you have old inspection reports, they can be helpful, too.
- They might show that a problem is new or has been there long.
Talk to the inspector
- The first step in disputing a report is to talk to the inspector.
- Call them and explain your concerns. Be polite and calm.
- Ask the inspector to clarify any points you disagree with.
- They might have more information that was outside the report.
- They might agree to take another look at the issue.
- If the inspector agrees there’s a mistake, they can change the report.
Get a second inspection
- If talking to the inspector doesn’t help, consider getting a second inspection.
- Choose a different inspector or company.
- Make sure they are licensed and experienced.
- Tell the new inspector about your concerns.
- But don’t influence their inspection. Let them form their own opinion.
- If the second report differs from the first, you have a stronger case for dispute.
Write a formal dispute
Write a formal dispute if you still think the first report is wrong. This is a letter or email to the inspection company.
- State which parts of the report you disagree with
- Explain why you think they are wrong
- Include your evidence (photos, expert opinions, etc.)
- Ask for the report to be changed
Know your rights
- In some places, there are laws about building inspections.
- These laws might give you rights if a report is wrong.
- Check the rules in your area.
- Government agencies can be contacted if you wish to file a complaint.
- Some inspection companies have insurance for mistakes.
- If a wrong report causes you problems, you can claim compensation.
Learn from the experience
- You can learn from this even if you can’t change the report.
- Use what you’ve learned to choose inspectors more carefully in the future.
- Ask about their experience and qualifications. Please find out how they handle disputes before you hire them.
Click to read more about building inspections in Sydney. Know your rights and the rules in your area. With patience and reasonable evidence, you can often resolve these disputes. The goal of a building inspection is to protect you as a buyer. Use it to make the best decision about your potential new home.
