Buyer guide · Updated
Buying a Queenslander: what a building inspection should check
When buying a Queenslander, the inspection should focus on stumps and subfloor timbers, termites, the roof and gutters, floor and wall movement, the quality of past renovations and any rooms built in underneath. These timber homes can be wonderful to own, but most of their expensive problems are structural and hidden from the open home.
Stumps and subfloor
Queenslanders sit on stumps, originally hardwood, often replaced with concrete or steel. Look for leaning, rotting or termite damaged stumps, poor packing, sagging bearers and uneven floors. Restumping is a significant cost, so the condition underneath matters a lot.
Roof and gutters
Corrugated iron roofs can last a long time, but rust, loose screws, failed flashings and blocked or rusted box gutters lead to leaks. Look for water stains on ceilings and in the roof space if it can be accessed.
Walls, floors and movement
Timber homes move with the seasons. Some unevenness is normal in an older home. Larger gaps in VJ walls, doors that will not close, and sloping floors can point to stump or framing problems that need attention.
Built under, raised and extended
Many Queenslanders have been raised and had rooms built underneath, often decades ago. Check for damp, ventilation, ceiling height, waterproofing in downstairs bathrooms and how the new structure connects to the old. Ask your conveyancer to check approvals with council, because unapproved work can be costly to fix.
Termites
Old hardwood, lattice, timber stairs and leafy gardens make termites a major risk. A combined building and pest inspection is essential. See termites in Brisbane.
Asbestos and older materials
Queenslanders and post war homes renovated before 1990 may contain asbestos in fibro sheeting, eaves, wet area linings and old floor coverings. A building inspector can note suspected materials. Testing needs a licensed asbestos assessor, and any removal must follow Queensland rules.
Character overlays
Many inner Brisbane Queenslanders are covered by the Traditional building character overlay in the Brisbane City Plan, which affects demolition and changes to the front of the house. Check with council or a town planner if you plan major works.
Suburbs full of Queenslanders
We regularly see these homes in Paddington, Wilston, Ashgrove, Annerley and Graceville and Chelmer.
General information for Queensland buyers, current at the date above. It is not legal or financial advice. Your conveyancer or solicitor can advise on your contract.