When you order a building inspection report in New Zealand, it’s often the small issues that end up costing the most. During property inspections across New Zealand, our team regularly sees the same problems appear. Here are five common house issues to watch for — and why a professional inspection matters.

1. Leaky Showers & Poor Waterproofing

Bathrooms are high-risk areas. Cracked linings, gaps in sealant, or poor installation let water seep into walls and floors, leading to mould, rot, and major repairs. The NZ Building Code treats moisture defects as serious.

2. Roof Damage & Blocked Gutters

From rusted metal sheets to loose tiles, roof damage is a common find. Blocked gutters and downpipes can cause water overflow, leading to ceiling leaks and timber decay if left unchecked.

3. Poor Drainage & Foundation Issues

Pooling water around the base of a home can create rising damp, erosion, or damage to cladding. Often this stems from poor slope, blocked vents, or soil levels set too high against the house.

4. Insulation Gaps & Ventilation Problems

Missing insulation, inadequate airflow in the roof or underfloor, and joinery gaps cause heat loss, condensation, and mould. Even newer homes can suffer if ventilation isn’t up to standard.

5. Borer (Wood-Boring Insects)

Borer infest untreated or damp timber, weakening floors, weatherboards, or framing. Left untreated, they can compromise the structural safety of a home.

How Inspect House NZ Can Help

At Inspect House NZ, we make property inspections easy, thorough, and hassle-free. Book today and get the peace of mind you deserve!

Why Choose Inspect House NZ?

We specialise in:

  • Annual Property Health Checks
  • Pre-Settlement Inspections
  • Healthy Homes
  • Moisture Testing
  • Written Building Inspection Reports
  • Meth Testing

Our same-day reports give you the key details fast, helping you make confident decisions.

For expert property inspections in New Zealand, visit Inspect House NZ today.

References

  • Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE). E2 External Moisture – Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods. Building Performance, NZ Government. https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-compliance/e-moisture/e2-external-moisture/ 
  • BRANZ (Building Research Association of New Zealand). Common Maintenance Issues in New Zealand Homes. Build Magazine. https://www.buildmagazine.org.nz
  • Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE). Building Code Handbook – Moisture and Ventilation Guidance. Building Performance, NZ Government. https://www.building.govt.nz
  • NZ House Surveys. Borer and Your Home – Common Signs and Risks. https://www.nzhousesurveys.co.nz