How much does a building consultant cost?
A standard pre-purchase building inspection costs $350–$700 in most of Australia, while detailed defect or dilapidation reports run $800–$3,500.
Typical price band
$600typical
standard job $450–$900
$350 low$3,500 high
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Real-world examples
Pre-purchase building inspection$350 – $700
Combined building & pest inspection$450 – $900
Detailed defect or dilapidation report$800 – $3,500
What affects the price
— Report type & depth. A visual pre-purchase check costs far less than a forensic defect report prepared for a dispute.
— Property size. Larger homes, multiple storeys and granny flats add inspection time.
— Access. Restricted roof voids and subfloors limit what can be inspected or take longer to reach.
— Turnaround. Same-day or pre-auction reports usually attract a premium.
— Expert witness work. Reports for tribunals or court are charged at professional hourly rates and cost significantly more.
Tips before you post
— Check the consultant carries professional indemnity insurance and ask what the report does and doesn't cover.
— Bundling building and pest inspections is almost always cheaper than booking them separately.
— For new builds, a handover inspection before final payment gives you leverage to get defects fixed.
Beyond the price: Hiring a building consultant: inspections, reports and when you need one
Read the guide →Other costs in this category
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Indicative range only, not a quote. Get quotes from local tradies for an exact price. Last updated 13 July 2026.
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