A Building or Prepurchase Inspection follows the guidelines laid down by NZS 4306 2015, the New Zealand Standard for such inspections.

For example, It will cover, but is not limited to, the condition of fencing, surface water, waste water drainage, paving, decks, exterior cladding, joinery roof Including guttering and roof wall junctions, the interior including detail of each room, Plumbing type and services provided.

A Weathetightness Survey is usually for banks, or those with a vested interest in the property. It departs from NZS4306. It Looks at the building only. It comments in more detail on the subfloor area, cladding, ground-wall clearances, deck-wall junctions, joinery installation, roof-wall junctions , roof, and guttering. etc.

It will complete a risk matric assessment. This will grade the building in terms of its risk by structure to the elements.

It will record noninvasive moisture readings both internally and externally (External readings are restricted to fibre cement and polystyrene claddings only)

It will carry out invasive testing where required. An example of invasive testing.

It will comment on any future issues that may occur if the building is not maintained.

It will conclude on the building weathertightness status on the day of the survey and whether or not it will comply with the original consent going forward.