A buyer's guide to pre-purchase pest inspections
When to book, what the report covers, and how to read the limitations section most buyers skip.
5 min read · Updated 22 Aug 2026
A timber pest inspection before you buy is one of the few chances you get to look behind the styling. Here is how to make the most of it.
Book early
Inspections need access arranged through the agent and reports can take a day or two. Book as soon as your offer is accepted, or before auction if you are bidding.
What the report covers
A timber pest report typically covers active termites, evidence of past termite damage or treatment, other timber pests such as borers and wood decay, and conditions that make termite activity more likely.
Read the limitations
The most important section is often the one listing areas the inspector could not access — a roof void with no safe entry, a subfloor too low to crawl, furniture against walls. An inaccessible area is unknown, not clear. You can ask the vendor for access and a follow-up inspection.
Use the findings
Evidence of past termite treatment is not necessarily a reason to walk away, but you should ask for treatment records and warranty details. Active termites or structural damage are worth a builder's opinion and may be grounds to renegotiate.