Buyer guide
What a building and pest inspection costs in Brisbane, and why prices differ
Most Brisbane buyers pay a few hundred dollars for a combined building and pest inspection. Where your quote lands depends on the size and type of the home, how hard it is to access, and whether the price includes GST.
The short answer
For a typical Brisbane house, published prices for a combined building and timber pest inspection sit in the mid hundreds of dollars, and units are usually a little cheaper. Our own prices are on the pricing page. When you compare quotes, compare the same thing: the same report types, the same property, and prices that either all include GST or all leave it out.
What pushes the price up or down
- Size. A five bedroom home with two living areas simply takes longer than a two bedroom cottage.
- Type. Apartments take less time on site, but there is more to say about wet areas and common property.
- Height and access. High set Queenslanders, steep blocks, big enclosed spaces underneath and large roof voids add time.
- Extra buildings. Granny flats, studios and big sheds are often priced separately.
- Timing. Some inspectors charge more for urgent bookings inside 24 hours.
Compare reports, not just prices
A cheap report that is vague, light on photos, or slow to arrive can cost you far more than it saved. Before booking anyone, ask to see a sample report. You want clear photos, plain English, defects grouped by how serious they are, and a summary you can understand in five minutes. See what our report covers.
Is it worth paying for both building and pest?
In Brisbane, yes, almost always. Termites are common across South East Queensland, and a combined booking is normally cheaper than two separate inspections. The exception can be a high rise apartment, where a building only report may be enough. Ask us if you are unsure.
Questions people ask
Does the price include GST?
Our prices on the pricing page include GST. Some competitors quote prices plus GST, so check before comparing.
Who pays for the inspection?
Usually the buyer, because the report is for the buyer's protection under the building and pest condition.