A great-looking property can still come with issues that only surface once you dig a little — due diligence is how you find out before you're contractually committed, not after.
Building and pest inspections are the starting point, not the whole picture
A building and pest inspection covers structural issues and pest activity, but doesn't typically cover things like council records, zoning restrictions, or plans for the surrounding area — all worth checking separately.
Title and council searches reveal what a walk-through can't
A title search can reveal easements, caveats or restrictions on the property, while council records can show unapproved renovations, zoning changes, or planned developments nearby that could affect future value or use.
Strata reports matter for units and townhouses
If you're buying into a strata scheme, the strata report can reveal upcoming special levies, disputes, building defects, or a poorly funded sinking fund — details that don't show up in a standard building inspection at all.
Chris Brown
Managing Director & Finance Broker at New Vision Financial Services, a credit representative under Australian Credit Licence 384704 and a member of the FBAA and AFCA. More about Chris →
Frequently asked
Who typically organises these checks?
Your conveyancer or solicitor usually organises title and strata searches, while you or your buyer's agent typically arrange the building and pest inspection directly.
Is due diligence different for an off-the-plan purchase?
Yes — for off-the-plan, due diligence tends to focus more on the developer's track record, the contract terms and sunset clauses, since there's no existing building to inspect yet.
How much should I budget for due diligence?
Costs vary by property type and location, but building and pest inspections, and conveyancing searches, are worth budgeting for as a standard part of the purchase process, not an optional extra.