How do Gold Coast Pre-Sale Building & Pest Inspections work?
A pre-sale building and pest inspection on the Gold Coast can boost buyer confidence and help you avoid surprises during negotiations. While not mandatory, it allows you to fix issues early or disclose them upfront, making your property more appealing and the sale process smoother.
Should I get a pre-sale building and pest inspection done to avoid surprises later?
When you’re preparing to sell your property on the Gold Coast, you’re probably thinking about presentation, price, and promotion. But what about potential problems hiding beneath the surface—the kind that can derail a sale at the worst possible moment?
That’s where a pre-sale building and pest inspection comes in. It’s not legally required, but it can be a game-changer in getting your home sold smoothly and for top dollar.
What Is a Pre-Sale Building and Pest Inspection?
A pre-sale building and pest inspection is an assessment you organise before listing your home for sale. It covers:
- Structural condition of the property
- Presence of termites or other pests
- Signs of water damage, rot, or mould
- Issues with the roof, plumbing, or electrical systems
- Any defects, safety concerns, or future maintenance red flags
This is the same type of report buyers often request during their due diligence, but you’re getting ahead of the game by doing it upfront.
Benefits of a Pre-Sale Inspection for Gold Coast Sellers
1. Avoid Last-Minute Deal Breakers – Buyers often make their offers subject to a satisfactory inspection. If hidden issues pop up, they may:
- Renegotiate the price
- Delay settlement
- Pull out of the contract entirely (if within their cooling-off period)
Having the report upfront helps you avoid these nasty surprises.
2. Build Trust with Buyers – A seller-supplied report can boost buyer confidence. You’re showing transparency and honesty—qualities that can tip the scales in your favour, especially in a competitive market.
3. Fix Issues Before Listing – If the report reveals something concerning, you can choose to:
- Fix it (and mention the repair in your listing)
- Adjust your price expectations accordingly
- Prepare answers for buyer objections
No scrambling, no surprises.
4. Speed Up the Sales Process – Buyers who see a recent building and pest report may feel confident enough to make a faster offer, especially interstate buyers or investors who can’t attend inspections.
5. Reduce Negotiation Leverage – If a buyer’s inspector finds something post-contract, they may try to chip away at your price. With your own report, you control the narrative and stay one step ahead.
Things to Consider Before Getting One
– The Report Could Reveal Deal-Breakers
Be prepared: if the report turns up serious problems (e.g., active termites, structural movement), you’ll need to address them—or disclose them—before selling.
– You Still Need to Disclose Known Issues
Under Queensland law, once you’re aware of a problem, you’re obligated to disclose it to buyers. Therefore, receiving a report creates a duty to be transparent about any issues it uncovers.
– Buyers May Still Get Their Own Inspection
Even with your report in hand, many buyers will still commission an independent one. That’s okay, it still shows you’ve got nothing to hide.
How Much Does a Pre-Sale Inspection Cost on the Gold Coast?
Expect to pay around $300 to $600+, depending on the size and location of your property. Some companies offer combined building and pest inspections, which are most useful for sales purposes.
Think of it as a small investment that could:
- Protect your sale price
- Speed up the process
- Prevent bigger costs down the track
Is It Worth It?
If your property is:
- Older or hasn’t had recent inspections
- In a termite-prone area (common on the Gold Coast)
- In a suburb with buyer competition (e.g., Burleigh, Broadbeach, Southport)
- At a price point where buyers will expect complete transparency
Then, yes, getting a pre-sale inspection is well worth it.
Should You Share the Report with Buyers?
Yes, in most cases. Sharing the report:
- Speeds up buyer decision-making
- Positions you as a proactive, trustworthy seller
- Creates a smoother negotiation process
Just make sure it’s from a licensed and insured inspector, and recent (within 3–6 months).
Final Thoughts
A pre-sale building and pest inspection is one of the smartest moves you can make as a seller. It shows you’re serious, reduces the chance of nasty surprises, and gives you leverage in negotiations.
It doesn’t just protect your deal—it protects your peace of mind.
FAQs – Pre-Sale Building and Pest Inspections on the Gold Coast
1. Is a pre-sale inspection required by law in Queensland?
No, it’s not mandatory—but it’s highly recommended for sellers who want a smoother, more transparent sale process.
2. Can I hide the results of a pre-sale report?
If the report reveals significant issues, you’re legally obligated to disclose them. Transparency is crucial in avoiding legal and contractual problems later.
3. Will buyers still do their own inspection?
Often, yes—but having your report can give them more confidence and reduce the risk of renegotiation.
4. What happens if I find termites or damage?
You can address the issue and provide evidence of rectification, or disclose it and adjust your price expectations accordingly. It’s better than being blindsided mid-sale.
5. Can I advertise the inspection in my property listing?
Yes! Mentioning a clean inspection report can be a strong selling point, especially in buyer-heavy areas of the Gold Coast.
Know before they do.
Get ahead of the curve with a pre-sale building and pest inspection. It’s one of the easiest ways to protect your sale, your price, and your peace of mind.
NOW HERE’S THE FLIP SIDE OF THE SAME QUESTION:
As a BUYER, Should you Rely on a Seller’s Pre-Inspection Building and Pest Report?
The answer is a resounding 100% NO.
As a buyer, this Building and Pest Inspection report wasn’t written for you; it was written to protect the seller. The aim? To spot any problems before they occur, so that the seller can address any issues found.
No matter how detailed the report appears or how trustworthy the seller seems, never rely solely on a seller’s building and pest report.
The inspector’s indemnity insurance does not cover you unless you commissioned the report, and that means no legal protection for you if something goes wrong.
As a buyer, it is imperative that you get your own independent Building and Pest Inspection Report. It’s the smartest move you’ll make as a buyer before signing anything.
✅ Protect your investment
✅ Avoid nasty surprises
✅ Make your own informed decisions
I have a detailed page on this very question, “Should you Rely on a Seller’s Pre-Inspection Building and Pest Report?” specifically for Buyers.
More Smart Seller Questions Answered
Need to Sell Your House Fast on the Gold Coast? Here’s What Actually Works
Selling your home quickly on the Gold Coast isn’t about luck—it’s about making the right moves from day one. The key? Smart strategy. Partner with a local agent who knows the Gold Coast market inside out, price your property competitively, and create a campaign that grabs attention instantly.
Think: powerful marketing, standout street appeal, professional staging, and striking photography. The goal is to stop buyers from scrolling and get them through the door. Consider auctions to create urgency and set a clear timeline. Be flexible with open homes and ready to negotiate—buyers move fast, and so should you.
Want a fast sale without compromising on price? It’s possible when you sell with focus, local knowledge, and the right plan.
THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY TO A SUCCESSFUL GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE STARTS
My simplified guide below will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast;
I proudly sell homes across the entire coast.
1. PREPARING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY FOR SALE + SOME OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tidying gardens and decluttering everything inside and out.
- All homes for sale, are legally required to have hardwired photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms.
Non-removable 10-year battery smoke alarms can be installed as an alternative.
- By law, you are required to complete a pre-contractual seller’s disclosure statement: generally related to limitations, restraints, or defects in the property title, such as easements, covenants, leasing, zoning, etc.
- A pool safety certificate is also required if you have a swimming pool or if the property has a shared swimming pool (Body Corporate).
2. COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
After showing me around your property, I will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. This is a detailed, legally required analysis of your home’s market value.
The CMA is based on recently sold and for-sale properties similar to yours in the immediate area. I will need to view your home to prepare this report.
3. SETTING A MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST HOME
The third step in selling your home is to create a marketing budget.
By law, this must be based on actual costs.
There are various marketing options to consider, such as:
– Internal, External and Drone Photography.
– Property and House Plans show potential buyers the exact layout of your home and property.
– Internet Advertising on platforms such as RealEstate.com.au, Domain.com.au, Facebook.com, Instagram.com, etc.
– For Sale Sign on the street is still essential to attracting potential buyers. Even though many buyers start their search online, they often drive around neighbourhoods to see what’s available.
A simple fact: Not having a For Sale sign can significantly reduce the number of people who see your property and may be interested in buying it.
4. PREPARING AND APPROVING THE FORM 6 AGREEMENT WHEN SELLING A GOLD COAST PROPERTY
A Form 6 Agreement is a document provided by the Queensland State Government. It outlines all relevant details of the property sale, including the marketing budget.
Our administration team will prepare this form for you and send it for your review and approval.
5. PAYING THE MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
Once you have approved the Form 6 Agreement, the next step is to pay for the marketing budget that you have chosen.
6. STARTING THE ADVERTISING PROCESS
Once your payment is received, the advertising campaign will commence.
Advertising strategies will align with the choices you made within your marketing budget.
7. MONITORING MARKET RESPONSE
If your property hasn’t received offers within 30 days, don’t assume there’s no interest.
It often means the price isn’t aligned with what buyers are willing to pay at this time.
This is your signal to review and adjust your pricing strategy so your home remains competitive and receives the attention it deserves.
8. ARRANGING BUYER VIEWINGS
When buyers express interest in your property, viewings will be arranged to allow them to see your home in person; you need to be away from the property during these viewings.
This helps potential buyers feel relaxed and visualise themselves as the new owners, thereby forming a deeper connection with your property.
9. CONSIDERING A BUYER’S OFFER
When you receive an offer on your home, it means a buyer is serious and ready to move forward at a certain price.
This is a key moment in your selling journey. Take the time to go over the offer carefully.
Look beyond the price; check the terms, conditions, and settlement timeframes. Make sure it works for you before accepting, countering, or declining.
10. ACCEPT, COUNTER, REJECT
When an offer is presented, you will need to respond by accepting, countering, or rejecting it.
Accepting locks in the agreed-upon price and terms.
Countering proposes changes and initiates further negotiations. If countering, present revised terms clearly; open, respectful communication is key for a smooth sale.
Rejecting means the offer is unacceptable; in this case, respond promptly and professionally, explaining your reasoning for the decision.
11. YOUR LEGALITIES
When you finally accept an offer, you will engage your conveyancer or solicitor to facilitate the legal requirements to complete the sale.
If you are part of a Body Corporate, you will need to provide a Disclosure Statement from them.
Your solicitor will use PEXA to settle your property. Part of the process requires Verification of Identity. Also, anyone selling a property must complete an ATO Clearance Certificate.
12. BUYER’S DEPOSIT
The buyer’s deposit is a crucial step in the property purchase process; it will be held in the agency’s Trust account.
This is a tangible expression of the buyer’s commitment to purchase your property.
13. BUILDING AND PEST INSPECTIONS
Typically, a buyer will arrange for a building and pest inspection report to be completed, usually within 14 days of the contract date.
Additionally, they may have the contract subject to finance, which is generally applicable for 21 days from the contract date.
14. COMPLETING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE
Based on the outcome of the building and pest inspection report, as well as any finance being sought, the buyer will proceed with their offer or withdraw it.
At this point, the sale either falls through or becomes unconditional.
15. LOOKING FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY
If the sale becomes unconditional, it is time to start looking for a new property. Remember, there is no need to rush.
It is essential that you take your time, as this needs to be a very considered purchase.
Your new home is of substantial value and can be costly if you change your mind. Something you may want to investigate is Short-Term Bridging Loans.
16. ALTERNATIVES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER
An alternative to seriously consider when deciding where to live between selling and buying is renting while you look for a new property.
Renting for a short period gives you breathing room; it allows you time to clear your head, make a confident, considered decision, and ultimately buy where you truly want to live, with no pressure or panic.
17. TIME FOR YOU TO MOVE
Leaving your home opens doors to a new chapter full of new beginnings. Embrace the excitement of a fresh start and cherish the memories you’ve made.
Every box you pack brings you one step closer to a new adventure full of possibilities that lie ahead.
18. YOUR SALE CONCLUDES
The culmination of the property sale is settlement; it marks the transfer of the property to the new buyer.
As the final chapter concludes, this marks a sense of achievement: your property has now SOLD.
19. YOUR FUTURE OPTIONS
If you have chosen to rent, you will continue to look for and eventually purchase a property, apartment, or perhaps even buy land and build; now there’s something to consider.
20. TIME TO UNWIND AND MAKE YOUR NEW HOME YOUR OWN
As you unpack and furnish your new home, embrace the gradual process of creating your haven.
Enjoy the transformation, one room at a time.
Relax in the tranquillity of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of your new neighbourhood.
Explore the nearby parks and cafes; enjoy the unique charm of your new community.
Remember, settling in is a journey in itself; it’s not a race. Embrace the process of creating a home that reflects your unique style and personality.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or just ready to move on, I’ll guide you through every step of selling your Gold Coast home with confidence and ease.
Navigating the intricacies of selling your property can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; as you would naturally expect, your steps may vary.
Author – Craig Douglas
Are you ready for a conversation about selling your Gold Coast home?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD
Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
You can find me working at a Boutique Real Estate Agency
These are just some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Varsity Lakes
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
