Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most of us will ever make. That’s why pre-purchase building inspections are so important — they give buyers clear, independent information about the true condition of a property.
Unfortunately, we’re seeing a troubling trend: some real estate agents actively blocking inspectors from doing their work. The line we often hear is, “the homeowner doesn’t want that inspector here.”
This raises serious concerns — both for buyers trying to make informed decisions and for the integrity of the real estate industry itself.
The Duty of a Building Inspector
A building inspector’s role is simple:
- To provide a clear, independent, and professional assessment of a property.
- To act only in the interests of the purchaser who has engaged them.
- To follow New Zealand Standard NZS 4306:2005 – Residential Property Inspections.
At The Little Pig Building Company, we take this responsibility seriously. We are BOINZ (Building Officials Institute of New Zealand) accredited inspectors, equipped with specialist tools such as drones, moisture meters, thermal cameras, and sub-floor robots to ensure the inspection is thorough, unbiased, and accurate.
Most importantly — the purchaser has the right to choose their own inspector. It is not the role of the real estate agent or vendor to dictate who carries out the inspection, unless there is a lawful and fully disclosed reason for objection.
Why Would an Agent Block an Inspector?
When access is denied based solely on the identity of the inspector, it begs the question: what are they trying to hide?
- Are there known issues with the property they fear will be uncovered?
- Are they hoping a less thorough inspection will gloss over defects?
- Or is it simply about trying to control the narrative and rush the sale through?
Whatever the reason, it is not fair to the buyer. Blocking a chosen inspector places the purchaser at a disadvantage and undermines their ability to carry out proper due diligence.
What Buyers and Homeowners Need to Know
If you’re purchasing a home:
- You have the right to choose your inspector.
- Don’t be pressured into using someone suggested by the agent.
- Ask directly for access to your chosen professional.
If you’re selling your home:
- Remember that a thorough, independent inspection is in your best interest too.
- It protects you from accusations of withholding information later.
- A transparent process builds trust and often leads to smoother sales.
Our Commitment
At The Little Pig Building Company, our mission is to ensure buyers and homeowners alike have the best possible advice available.
We will always act with integrity, independence, and professionalism — even if it means standing firm when others try to get in the way.
Your home purchase is too important to leave to chance. Don’t let anyone dictate who inspects your future home.
