Welcome to Property 101 and today we’ll discuss – Why you should obtain a Building Approval Search prior to buying a property in Brisbane.
Building Approval Search and Final Inspection
As an experienced Brisbane Buyer’s Agent and Registered Valuer, I highly recommend obtaining a copy of the Building Approval Search and Final Inspection from council prior to buying any house in Brisbane. This search is very important because it provides essential information about the property you are considering purchasing, which can help you make an informed decision.
What we want to confirm is that the original house and any additional structures or additions proposed had their plans approved by Brisbane City Council and also, that the Final Certificate (Form 21) was obtained. The cost of the search as at March 2023 is $128.31 and it usually takes 5-10 days to receive the search results. This search is typically conducted by your conveyancing solicitor.
Now, let’s dive into the reasons why you should obtain a building inspection search from council prior to going unconditional on a property.
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Ensures compliance with council regulations
One of the primary reasons to obtain a building inspection search from council is to ensure that the property you are considering buying complies with all council regulations. This includes checking whether the property has any outstanding council notices, such as building or planning approvals, or if there are any current or past building or planning applications for the property.
If the property does not comply with council regulations, it may affect your ability to obtain insurance for the property, or even impact your ability to obtain finance for the purchase. In some cases, you may also be required to undertake additional work to bring the property up to council standards, which can be an unexpected and costly expense.
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Identifies any unapproved structures or alterations
Another important reason to obtain a building inspection search from council is to identify any unapproved structures or alterations on the property. This could include additions or renovations that were made without the appropriate council approvals or permits.
Unapproved structures or alterations can be a serious issue as they may not comply with council regulations or building codes, and could pose a safety risk to you, your family, guests and tenants. Additionally, they may affect the property’s value and your ability to obtain finance or insurance.
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Provides information about the property’s history
A building inspection search from council can also provide valuable information about the property’s history, including any previous building or planning applications, compliance or enforcement notices, or inspections that have been carried out on the property.
This information can help you to better understand the property’s past and identify any potential issues or risks that may affect your decision to purchase the property.
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Helps to avoid costly surprises
By obtaining a building inspection search from council prior to buying a property, you can avoid costly surprises that may arise after settlement. This could include unexpected expenses related to bringing the property up to council standards or resolving issues with unapproved structures or alterations.
By having all the relevant information upfront, you can make an informed decision about whether the property is the right fit for you and whether any potential issues or expenses are acceptable.
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Provides peace of mind
Finally, obtaining a building inspection search from council can provide peace of mind when purchasing a property. Knowing that the property complies with council regulations, has no outstanding issues or notices, and has a clean history can help to reduce any anxiety or stress associated with the property purchase process.
Obtaining a building approval search from council prior to buying a house is a crucial step in the property purchase process. The information provided in the search can help you to make an informed decision about whether the property is the right fit for you and can help to avoid any costly surprises after settlement.
As a experienced Brisbane Buyer’s Agent and Valuer, I highly recommend that all buyers consider obtaining a building inspection search from council prior to going unconditional on a property. The small cost and time investment can save you a significant amount of stress and expense in the long run and provide you with peace of mind knowing that you have made an informed decision about your property purchase. All the best!
If you are considering purchasing a home or investment property in Brisbane and would like the assistance of an experienced Brisbane Buyer’s Agent that can help you find the perfect property that meets all your requirements, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Feel free to contact us via email admin@templetonproperty.com.au or call 0418 159 993
We look forward to hearing from you.
Sam Price, Buyer’s Agent and Director – Templeton Property.
