When it comes to homeownership in Perth, most people think about increasing property value through renovations or landscaping. But what many don’t realise is that the most valuable investment is often one you can’t see — a structural inspection. Whether you’re buying, selling, renovating, or just want peace of mind, regular inspections play a massive role in preserving property value and preventing long-term damage.
Why a Structural Inspection Matters for Perth Properties
Here in WA, we see everything from coastal corrosion in places like Fremantle to clay soil movement out in the hills. Perth’s climate, with its mix of dry summers and winter rains, can wreak havoc on a building’s structure. That’s why a structural inspection isn’t just a tick-box exercise — it’s essential maintenance.
Structural issues aren’t always obvious. Cracks in walls, doors that don’t close properly, dampness problems — but they can signal deeper problems. Left unchecked, minor issues can evolve into major (and expensive) defects.
Understanding What’s Involved in a Structural Inspection
A thorough structural inspection goes well beyond a quick walk-around. It’s visual assessment of accessible areas to identify major defects to the building structure, including:
- Ceilings for signs of sagging, cracking, nails popping, dampness and damp damage
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Walls for signs of bulging, distortion, cracking, dampness and damage
- Floors (Timber/Concrete) for surface damage, unevenness and dampness
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Doors and door frames for damage and poor fit
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Taps and Showers for signs of leakage
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Dampness Problems
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Roof Exterior for cracking, decay and broken or loose tiles
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Guttering and downpipes for signs of rust
See AS 4349.1 for a detailed list of what should be covered in pre-purchase structural inspections.
Items which are generally not included in a pre purchase structural inspection include any component of the property that cannot be seen. Other elements not included in a structural inspection include roof plumbing and roof covering, general gas, water and sanitary plumbing, electrical wiring, partition walls, cabinetry, windows, doors, trims, fencing, minor structures, non-structural damp issues, ceiling linings, floor coverings and decorative finishes such as plastering, painting, tiling.
You can read more about which types of Pre Purchase Building Inspections include assessment of structural elements at Broad Building Inspections.
Signs You Might Need a Structural Damage Assessment
Not sure whether your property needs attention? Keep an eye out for:
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Cracks that run diagonally from windows or doors
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Uneven or sloping floors
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Gaps forming between walls and ceilings
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Moisture damage or mould along cornices and skirting
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Doors and windows that stick or won’t latch
If you’re near ongoing construction, it’s also wise to book a dilapidation report — these inspections help document your property’s current condition before any external works potentially cause damage. Learn more about our Dilapidation Reports if you’re in that situation.
How Structural Inspections Protect Your Property Value
The resale value of your home depends heavily on its structural integrity. Hidden damage can scare off buyers or cause deals to fall through after a pre-purchase inspection. But regular structural inspections can:
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Identify issues early, before they require costly repairs
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Provide evidence of maintenance and care to future buyers
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Help you negotiate confidently when buying or selling
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Reduce risks of building disputes with insurers or builders
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Extend the lifespan of your property’s core structure
Insurance and Disputes: Why Structural Reports Matter
Structural reports aren’t just useful for peace of mind — they’re often critical when it comes to insurance or building disputes. Without a documented structural damage assessment, it can be near impossible to prove that a defect did not exist prior to a nearby development or renovation.
This is especially important in growing suburbs like Piara Waters or Treeby, where new builds are popping up left and right. If your home starts to shift, you’ll need solid evidence to hold the right party accountable. An independent, dated inspection report gives you exactly that.
How Often Should You Book a Structural Inspection?
There’s no fixed rule, but here are some helpful guidelines:
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Before buying or selling – Essential to know what you’re getting into (or what you’re selling)
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After major weather events – Perth’s winter storms can damage roofs and contribute to dampness,
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Before and after nearby construction – To protect your legal rights
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Every 3–5 years – As preventative maintenance for ageing properties
If your home is more than 30 years old, or you’re concerned about material defects or damage, an inspection is overdue.
Choose Independent, Experienced Inspectors
When selecting an inspector in Perth, look for someone with extensive building experience — not just a certificate. While WA law does not require that all inspectors be registered builders, building inspectors who are registered builders like those at Broad Building Inspections understand construction inside and out. As a result of the construction boom there are many cases where inexperienced inspectors miss critical defects because they simply haven’t spent time on a job site. Check that your inspector is a registered builder at on the WA Government register.
Structural Inspections Aren’t a Luxury — They’re Essential
It’s tempting to avoid inspections when everything “seems fine”, but in our experience, that’s exactly when things are going wrong behind the scenes. A preventative structural inspection can save tens of thousands of dollars — and years of stress — down the track.
If you’re not sure whether your property needs a check-up or you’ve noticed something that’s just not quite right, it’s probably worth getting it looked at. Broad Building Inspections offer independent, honest advice with reports delivered in 24 hours. Our inspections are based on decades of experience in the building industry — no scare tactics, no fluff, just facts.
Book your structural inspection today and stay in control of your biggest investment.