How New Building & Pest Legislation Affects Purchasers in NSW & QLD
- Tanya Spencer
- May 13
- 1 min read
Building and pest inspections are not just recommended they are essential.
Changes in consumer protection and building regulation mean buyers must be more proactive than ever.
NSW Building Oversight
In NSW, oversight sits with NSW Fair Trading.
Stronger defect reporting and developer accountability measures have increased transparency, particularly in strata buildings.
However, responsibility for inspection still rests with the buyer.
Queensland Building Regulation
In QLD, building regulation operates under the Building Act 1975, overseen by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.
Buyers should verify:
Proper approvals for renovations
Final inspection certificates
Pool compliance (if applicable)
Termite history in high-risk zones
What Inspections Should Cover
A thorough building and pest inspection should assess:
Structural integrity
Roofing condition
Plumbing & drainage
Electrical safety
Termite activity
Moisture damage
Compliance with approved plans
Skipping this step to “win the deal” can cost far more later.
Negotiation Power
Inspection results may allow:
Price renegotiation
Repairs before settlement
Contract termination (if clauses allow)
Understanding how to rely on inspection clauses is critical.
Don’t Rush This Stage
Even in competitive markets, taking time for proper due diligence protects your financial future.
📞 Buying Soon?
At SL Conveyancing, we coordinate your building and pest conditions carefully to protect your rights. Contact us before signing so we can ensure your contract gives you proper inspection protection.
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