Pre-purchase building inspector

Home buyers and investors, plus buyers' agents and conveyancers who refer clients.

A fixed fee per inspection and report, usually higher for larger homes. Extras include re-inspections, thermal imaging and pest add-ons.

• Knowledge of building construction and common defects
• Clear, careful report writing
• Good people skills with nervous buyers
• Comfortable in roof spaces and under floors

• Licensing or registration rules for building inspectors differ by state and territory, so check with your state's licensing body before taking any work
• Professional indemnity insurance is a key protection, as missed defects can lead to claims
• Reports usually need to follow the relevant Australian Standard, so check what applies where you work
• Roof and underfloor work can be hazardous, so plan safe access and PPE
• Work is busy around weekends and can dip when the property market is slow

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $4,000 to $15,000, depending on your equipment, insurance, software and how you set up. Treat this as an estimate and get your own quotes before committing.

Licensing or registration rules for building inspectors differ by state and territory, so check with your state's licensing body before taking any work. Also check professional indemnity insurance and which Australian Standard your reports need to follow.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many inspections you book and how busy the property market is. Work is often busy around weekends and can dip when the market is slow.