A realistic, cost-effective property inspection service
Independent building and property inspections across metropolitan Melbourne. Clear, photo-rich reports from Registered Building Practitioners, within 24 hours.
- Registered Building Practitioners
- Fully insured
- Independent of agents
Specialists in property inspections
We inspect homes and commercial buildings across metropolitan Melbourne: pre-purchase checks, construction-stage inspections, and mould, asbestos, dilapidation and rental reports. Buyers, owners, agents and builders use our reports to make decisions with the full picture in front of them.
View all servicesTypes of inspections
Every service is delivered to Australian Standards and reported in plain English.
Pre-Purchase Building Inspections
Know exactly what you're buying before you sign or bid.
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Construction Stage Inspections
Catch defects at each build stage, before they're covered up.
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Standard Property Inspections
A comprehensive health-check of any home or building.
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Dilapidation Inspections
Document a property's condition before and after nearby works.
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Tax Depreciation Schedules
Maximise the deductions on your investment property.
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Rental Property Inspections
Protect your investment with documented condition reports.
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Mould, Moisture & Dampness Inspections
Find the source of damp before it damages health and structure.
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Asbestos Inspection & Testing
Identify and assess asbestos-containing materials safely.
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Vendor Inspections
Find out what the buyer's inspector will find, before you list.
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Environmental Hazard Testing
Check a property is safe from hidden environmental risks.
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Drone Inspections
Assess roofs and exteriors from the air, without working at height.
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Water Testing
Check tank, bore or tap water for bacteria, metals and plumbing issues.
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Reasons buyers and owners choose us
Reports you can actually read
Written in plain English with a photo of every issue. If anything in the report is unclear, ring us and we'll talk you through it.
Your report within 24 hours
In Victoria a cooling-off period gives you three business days. We don't sit on reports; most are emailed the day after the inspection.
Nobody pays us but you
We have no ties to agents, brokers or builders. The report is yours alone, and it says what we found, good or bad.
35+ years on the tools
Registered Building Practitioners who spent decades building and renovating homes before inspecting them. Fully insured, registered with the VBA.
A simple three-step process
- 01
Book & inspect
Book a time and we attend the property. You're welcome to walk through with us and ask questions while we work.
- 02
Receive your report
We compile a clear, photo-rich report and send it to you (and your agent, if you'd like) within 24 hours of the inspection.
- 03
Follow-up support
Then we ring you to talk through the findings and answer whatever questions the report raises.
Some of the things we find
A few examples from recent jobs around Melbourne. Every property is different; this is the kind of thing an inspection turns up.
Ceiling: Mould & Suspected Asbestos
Water staining and visible mould growth were identified on a ceiling affected by suspected roof leakage. The ceiling lining was also suspected of containing asbestos, presenting additional risks if disturbed. Investigation of the roof leak and asbestos testing were recommended before any disturbance, followed by appropriate mould remediation and ceiling repairs.
Failing subfloor stumps
Deteriorated timber stumps and inadequate supports were identified beneath the floor, raising concerns about the stability of the supporting structure. These conditions may contribute to uneven flooring, settlement and structural movement. Assessment by a registered builder experienced in restumping was recommended to determine the extent of deterioration and necessary repairs.
Read more on the blog: How to Tell If a House Needs to Be Re-Stumped
Shower: Elevated Moisture Readings
Elevated moisture readings were detected around the shower enclosure, indicating possible water penetration into adjoining building materials. Defective waterproofing, deteriorated seals or plumbing leakage may be contributing factors.
Read more on the blog: The Hidden Danger of Shower Leaks: What You Need to Know
Toilet Cistern: Insecure Fixing
During a new construction inspection, movement was identified in a toilet cistern that had not been adequately secured. Although the fixture appeared correctly installed, the loose fixing could place stress on plumbing connections, potentially resulting in leaks and water damage over time. The builder was recommended to arrange secure fixing in accordance with AS/NZS 3500.2:2021 and the manufacturer's installation requirements.
Read more on the blog: Why New Homes Still Have Defects
Ceiling: Roof Leak
Moisture-related deterioration was identified on a ceiling, with elevated moisture readings and thermal imaging indicating possible water ingress. A joint in the box gutter directly above was identified as a potential source of the leak. Continued moisture exposure could damage ceiling linings and concealed timbers and encourage mould growth.
Unenclosed Shower: Suspected Non-Compliance
During a property inspection, an unenclosed double shower was identified with a potentially non-compliant waterproofing arrangement. AS 3740:2021 – Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas specifies waterstop requirements for unenclosed showers, including minimum distances from shower roses. Inadequate water containment may allow moisture to migrate beyond the shower area, potentially damaging adjoining building materials.
Window Jamb: Water Damage
Water damage and elevated moisture readings were identified at the bottom of a window jamb. Continued moisture exposure may cause further deterioration of the surrounding timber and concealed building materials.
Internal Walls: Rising Damp
Elevated moisture readings were identified near skirting boards in several areas. Rising damp occurs when ground moisture travels upwards through porous masonry by capillary action, often due to a missing, damaged or ineffective damp-proof course. Persistent moisture can damage plaster, paintwork and timber skirtings.
Rated 5.0on Google
Real reviews from Melbourne home buyers and owners.
“Huge thank you to Adam for coming to our rescue. We had an inspection at short notice and he was thorough, professional and incredibly helpful throughout.”
“Adam provided a clear, detailed and well set out report, with many photos to support the findings. I felt completely informed before making my decision.”
“A great experience with Adam as my pre-purchase building inspector. He was patient, knowledgeable and happy to explain everything in plain English.”
“I can't speak highly enough of Adam from Red Dog. He truly went above and beyond — genuinely wanted us to understand the property we were buying.”
“Adam was incredibly communicative throughout the process and gave us a super thorough report. Highly recommend to anyone buying a home.”
“Recommended by a friend and so happy I chose Red Dog. Prompt, professional and reassuring from start to finish.”
Questions we hear most
The things buyers and owners usually ask before booking an inspection.
What can I expect from a Red Dog inspection?
We check for safety hazards, major defects, minor defects and maintenance items across the interior, exterior, roof exterior, roof space, subfloor and site. Depending on size and type, an inspection typically takes 1–3 hours.
Why should I get a property inspection?
It puts you in a far stronger position to set your offer or negotiate the price, and it surfaces urgent repairs that could otherwise blow out your budget after you move in.
Are you Registered Building Practitioners and independent from agents?
Yes. We are Registered Building Practitioners (Domestic Builder – Unlimited) and completely independent of real estate agents, mortgage brokers and financial institutions.
Is there a pass or fail?
No. A property doesn't pass or fail an inspection. The report is an audit of the property's condition, so you can weigh up what's there and decide for yourself. Most reports list at least a few concerns, even on well-kept homes.
Do I need a report for every property I'm interested in?
There's usually no legal requirement, but skipping one risks buying a property with major defects. We recommend narrowing your search first, then booking an inspection (and a conveyancer) once you're serious about a particular property.
Ready to book your inspection?
Get a fast, clear report from Registered Building Practitioners with 35+ years' experience.