Building, Pest and Strata Reports — What NSW Buyers Should Check

Inspect beyond what you can see

A standard open-home inspection is not the same as a professional pre-purchase inspection.

NSW Government buyer guidance recommends organising property and pest inspections, and for strata property, obtaining a strata search report before buying.

What a strata report can reveal

A strata search can provide information about scheme finances and levies, insurance, building defects and planned works, safety matters, legal issues, meeting records and disputes.

You should also read the by-laws and understand what is common property versus your lot.

Building and pest

A building inspection gives information about the physical condition of the property. A pest inspection may identify timber-pest risks.

Existing reports can sometimes be available, but NSW Government guidance notes that buyers may prefer their own report so it addresses the detail they need.

Put the reports beside the contract

The contract and title documents may reveal easements, zoning, drainage and other legal/property information that an inspection alone will not.

Australia Buyer Roadmap: https://www.eltnetwork.com/post/buy-property-australia-2026-buyer-roadmap

Message CHECK with the property link if you want a simple due-diligence list before you commit.

Thao Pham | Sydney | 0452 526 888 | info@eltnetwork.com | Class 1 Licensed Real Estate Agent — Licence No. 20375265

General information only; engage appropriately qualified inspectors and a solicitor/conveyancer.

Sources

NSW Government — Buying a strata property; Pre-purchase inspection reports; Preparing to purchase.