Top 5 Building & Pest Report Checks | Byron Bay Buyers Agent

Top 5 Things You Must Check on a Building & Pest Report

(Especially When Buying in Byron Bay, Mullumbimby or Ocean Shores)

“A Building & Pest Report Might Cost a Few Hundred—But It Could Save You Hundreds of Thousands.”

Due diligence isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity when buying property.

A building and pest inspection is one of the most important parts of the property buying process—particularly here in the Northern Rivers. Whether you’re purchasing real estate in Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores or anywhere nearby, the inspection report provides essential insights into a property’s condition and what it might cost you later on.

But all too often, buyers skim these reports or don’t know what to look for—and that can lead to some very costly mistakes.

Here are the top 5 things you absolutely must check on a building and pest report before you commit to purchasing and an insight into how to approach reading your report.

1. Start With the Summary – Head Straight to the Conclusion Page

Before diving into every detail, go directly to the conclusion or summary page. This section should lists all major issues and gives you a high-level snapshot of what’s really going on.

📝 Why it matters:

• Helps you identify red flags quickly

• Prioritises significant issues over minor cosmetic ones

• Saves time when assessing multiple properties in a fast-moving market like Byron Bay or Mullumbimby

Minor issues are very common—especially in older homes. These might include a loose cupboard hinge, a missing doorstop, or a water stain on a floorboard. Most of these are easily resolved by a handyman.

But major defects—like a leaking roof, significant termite damage, or signs of structural movement such as subsidence—can come with hefty repair bills. These issues should always be clearly understood upfront and, where appropriate, negotiated before proceeding.

💡 If you’re buying a home that clearly needs renovating, factor those costs in from the outset. Trying to renegotiate later based on disclosed issues can waste time—or even cost you the property.

Older homes have charm—but they can also hide costly surprises. Building & Pest inspections are essential, especially when warranties are long gone.

2. Don’t Just Skim the Report – Read It Properly

Some building and pest reports can run over 150 pages. Most are at least 60. It’s essential to allow yourself enough time to go through the entire report carefully.

📖 Why it matters:

• Skimming through can lead you to miss serious issues

• You may find yourself facing a costly problem that you were actually warned about upfront

• A full read gives you the context behind the issues and helps you prepare for ownership

🧭 My process as your Buyers Agent:

• I personally attend building and pest inspections

• I go through every report thoroughly and meet with you to discuss the findings

• I often obtain quotes for repair works or necessary services if required, so we can make informed decisions quickly

• I break down what needs urgent attention, what’s routine, and what can be handled in the first 3–6 months

• This ensures you understand both the true condition of the property and the costs you’ll need to plan for

💡 Whilst I’m not a licensed building inspector, I make sure the inspectors I work with are skilled at translating technical findings into real-world context for my clients. If needed, I’ll also seek a second opinion to make sure we don’t miss anything critical.

Factor in costs of replacing flooring into your budget

3. Check for Structural Issues (Cracks, Movement, Uneven Floors)

Homes in Byron Bay, Mullumbimby and surrounding areas include many older weatherboard cottages and timber homes—properties that may show signs of movement or wear over time.

Look for:

• Cracks in walls or ceilings

• Sloping or uneven floors

• Misaligned doorframes or windows that won’t close properly

🏚 Why it matters:

These could be signs of serious structural issues, which are often expensive to fix and may affect resale value or even safety. If anything here raises a red flag, get a second opinion from a builder or structural engineer before proceeding.

Termites can wreak havoc- quickly. A pest inspection is essential.

4. Termite Activity – Check the Meter Box

The Northern Rivers region is a termite-prone area due to our climate and vegetation. This makes it essential to understand both past termite damage and whether active protection systems are in place.

Look for:

• Live termites or signs of active infestation

• Mud tubes or hollow/damaged timber

• Evidence of past treatment or repairs

• A sticker near the meter box showing a termite protection system has been installed

🐜 Why it matters:

Even historical termite activity can be problematic if not treated properly. A termite management sticker isn’t a green light on its own and could be a result of an infestation—ask questions like:

👉 “Has there been termite activity in the past?”

👉 “What kind of system is in place, and when was it last serviced?”

5. Moisture and Drainage – The Hidden Enemy

Moisture problems are common in coastal and hinterland areas like Ocean Shores and Mullumbimby, especially after periods of heavy rain.

Look for:

• Water staining or rising damp

• Signs of poor drainage or pooling around the foundations

• Leaking or damaged gutters and downpipes

• Mould or musty smells, particularly under the house or in roof voids

💧 Why it matters:

Moisture is not only a structural concern—it also creates an ideal environment for termites. While some guttering issues are expected in older homes, serious drainage problems should be budgeted for and fixed early to prevent larger issues.

💡 I always identify what’s urgent vs. manageable and help my clients prepare a plan of action, including getting quotes for works if needed before proceedings are finalised.

Final Word from your Local Buyers Agent

A building and pest inspection is more than a formality—it’s your best protection as a buyer.

As a Buyers Agent working across Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores and the broader Northern Rivers, I don’t just glance over these reports—I work with you to understand them. I attend the inspection, review every detail, and get the right people involved when needed so that you know exactly what you’re buying—and what it will take to maintain or improve it.

👉 Get in touch https://www.mackenzie-george.com.au/contact if you’d like help reviewing a building and pest report or need support navigating the Byron and surrounds real estate market.