Buying away from where you live

Hi nangunia,
you can start with the local yellow pages for the area. Ask several of the agents in the area for a list of pest and building inspectors. Don’t necessarily go with the one that the selling agent recommends!!! (said a little tongue in cheek, but I aim to keep everything separate!) Once you have a list, contact them and get quotes. I ask them to provide me with a sample report so I can evaluate them for the depth of information they cover (this doens’t necessarily mean you will get a good inspector, but its a start). I also check that they have insurance (eg I had a place inspected, and the inspector didn’t notice that a heap of the garage had been eaten by termites!!! I noticed it later – it was that obvious – the inspectors insurance should provide cover for examples such as this, so that you can seek remedy for missed issues – like half a missing garage!!)

I deal on my own behalf. Use email, fax, phone. Always try to talk with the inspector directly after the report is done, receive copy in full by email or fax/post. I am also going to ask inspector to take lots of photos in support of report and email/CDcopy them to me.

Yes, if you buy and then visit the property once a year for inspection, you should be able to claim reasonable cost/expenses for the portion of your trip that was business – not for your skiing holiday in Queenstown!!!! (obviously your accountant will best advise on this – check with them before you go!)
Cheers
CD

CastleDreamer