How Long Does a Building Inspection Take—and What Slows It Down?
- Shane Browne
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
If you’re buying or selling a property in Christchurch or Canterbury, time is usually of the essence. One common question we get at Manetain is: how long does a building inspection actually take?
The short answer? Most inspections take between 1.5 and 3 hours. But a few key factors can influence how long it takes—and how soon you’ll get your report.
Let’s break it down.
How Long Does the On-Site Inspection Take?
The time we spend on site depends on several things:
Size of the property – A two-bedroom home is quicker to assess than a five-bedroom one with multiple bathrooms and a large subfloor.
Accessibility – If it’s easy to access the roof space, subfloor, and exterior areas, things move faster. If access is limited or unsafe, it may take longer.
Property condition – Homes in good shape are usually quicker to assess. Properties with visible issues (e.g. cracking, leaks, or poor drainage) may require a more detailed look.
Additional structures – Sleepouts, garages, sheds, or other buildings will add time to the inspection.
On average, expect your inspection to take around two hours, but we’ll let you know beforehand if we expect it to be longer.
When Will I Get My Report?
At Manetain, we typically deliver your full report within 24 hours of completing the inspection. It’ll be detailed, easy to read, and include photos and recommendations.
Need it urgently? Just let us know—we’ll do everything we can to meet your deadline.
What Can Delay the Process?
While we aim to be quick and efficient, a few things can slow things down:
Poor access to the roof space or subfloor
Unsafe conditions (e.g. wet or damaged flooring)
Last-minute bookings where time slots are limited
Extreme weather during external inspections
Complex issues requiring further review or photos
We’ll always communicate clearly and keep you in the loop.
Why a Thorough Inspection Is Worth the Time
Rushing a building inspection risks missing something important. We take the time to do things properly—so when you receive your report, you can act on it with confidence.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or checking on your current property, that peace of mind is worth a few hours of your day.
Book an Inspection with Manetain
We’ve been inspecting homes across Christchurch and Canterbury for over 25 years. We’re known for being professional, prompt, and easy to work with—so you’ll get the detail you need, without the delay.
📞 027 345 3138
