Frequently Asked Questions

If there is something you don’t think we’ve covered in our FAQs, you can contact me with any questions you might have.

What do you check and look for during an inspection?

We follow the New Zealand standard NZS 4306:2005 with our inspections. We're expected to highlight significant defects that may be dangerous or unsanitary inside and outside the property.
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What do you check and look for during an inspection?

We follow the New Zealand standard NZS 4306:2005 with our inspections. We’re expected to highlight significant defects that may be dangerous or unsanitary inside and outside the property. We are looking for leaking, deteriorating framing, and moisture issues with cladding, which are causing rot. We then put those standards into our report with a simple table to show what has been inspected and what wasn’t. We then go into detail using photographic evidence with descriptions on what state each aspect of the property is currently in. Some things may not be applicable (the concrete pad wasn’t checked as the house has piles), or there may be cases where we couldn’t gain access, and further investigation may be required.

Outside, we visibly inspect things like: plumbing, drainage, and concrete areas around the house to make sure it’s been laid correctly for drainage, ensure downpipes are plumbed in the property, the foundations are sound, access the roof to assess any potential leaks, and any cladding that may be suffering from leaky homes syndrome.

Inside, we visibly inspect things like: electrical services, plumbing services, the use of the windows, ventilation, heat pumps and moisture readings.

What kind of inspections do you do?

Kiwi House Inspections Hawke’s Bay perform building inspections, meth testing, and healthy homes assessments, all of which are non-invasive inspections.
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What kind of inspections do you do?

Kiwi House Inspections Hawke’s Bay perform building inspections, meth testing, and healthy homes assessments, all of which are non-invasive inspections. We report back on what we can see. Depending on the defect, we will report back and advise if you need to engage with a specialised expert who may need to investigate further.

What's the timeframe for receiving my report?

You will typically receive the report 24 hours after the inspection.

Should any additional time be required, you will be well informed at any point before or after the inspection.

Are you insured?

Kiwi House Inspections Hawke's Bay have general and statutory liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance, and weather-tightness coverage.

What certifications do you have?


- Level 6 Diploma in Building Surveying.
- Certificate in Residential Property Inspection.
- Certificate in Forensic Building Surveying.
- Certificate in Commercial & Asset Management.
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What certifications do you have?

  • NZIBS Level 6 Diploma in Building Surveying.
  • NZIBS Certificate in Residential Property Inspection.
  • NZIBS Certificate in Forensic Building Surveying. 
  • NZIBS Certificate in Commercial & Asset Management. 
  • BOINZ Level 1 Accreditation to carry out Residential Property Inspections in accordance with NZS 4306 Residential Property Inspections
  • NZQA – Approved Micro-Credential in Methamphetamine Sampling and Screening.
  • NZGBC HomeFit Assessor.

Can you give me a price to fix any issues?

Generally no, we believe price is subjective and will always depend on whom you speak with and the professional you engage.

To avoid misleading, we prefer to connect you with the correct trades who can give you a more accurate estimate to fix any potential issues.

What's the process of working with you?

I’m on the case as soon as you contact me and will work my hardest to give you a quick turnaround and provide all the answers you need to make an informed property decision.
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What's the process of working with you?

I’m on the case as soon as you contact me and will work my hardest to give you a quick turnaround and provide all the answers you need to make an informed property decision.

The process of working with me:

  • You can contact me via email or phone.
  • I’ll ask for three details: first and last names, your email, and the property address.
  • I’ll also ask about any concerns you might have about the property so I can pay particular attention to that potential issue.
  • I’ll then look up the property and price up the inspection.
  • Put together a letter of engagement with your name and our terms and forward it to your email address.
  • We will give you our next availability (anything from one day to a week, depending on the current workload). You agree and confirm additional details, including the agent’s name and contact details, and we book it in.
  • I organize access to the property through the agent and book the inspection with them.
  • Once I have inspected the property and documented all defects and details, I call you to tell you the inspection has been completed and return the report to you within 24-36 hours of the inspection. I will generally follow up after a few days of you receiving the report to check in on your progress and see if you require any more of my assistance.

Can I use the report to negotiate with a vendor?

The report, alongside any trade quotes, can provide you with negotiating power to either have the vendor drop their asking price or add conditions to the sale stating any significant defects are to be addressed before you exchange contracts.

What if my house has lots of issues?

Our reports are extremely detailed; we don’t miss anything of importance. While it could seem like your house is riddled with issues, we will always ensure you know the difference between major and minor.
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What if my house has lots of issues?

Our reports are extremely detailed; we don’t miss anything of importance. While it could seem like your house is riddled with issues, we will always ensure you know the difference between major and minor.

We clearly document what is minor and what is major using a colour-coded system with a written description of what is recommended or required.

We break everything down to give you a better understanding, providing further discussion over the phone and connecting you with expert trades in case there is any need to investigate anything further.

Does any house come back with fewer issues?

As one may expect; a brand-new build will generally have much fewer findings than an older property, but most properties have a bit of wear and tear and require some form of maintenance. Some homes have much more serious issues.
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Does any house come back with fewer issues?

As one may expect; a brand-new build will generally have much fewer findings than an older property, but most properties have a bit of wear and tear and require some form of maintenance. Some homes have much more serious issues.

Our detailed reports will provide you with all the necessary information on a defect, whether small or large, so you can make an informed decision if this is the right house for you.

What Property Inspections Standards do you follow?

Our inspections encompass the following standards:

- NZS4306:2005: Residential Property Inspection.
- NZS8510:2017: Testing and Decontamination of Methamphetamine-Contaminated Properties.
- Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations 2019.

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