Queenslander Pre-Purchase Checklist
Buying a Queenslander is different from buying a modern house. Here is a practical checklist of what to check and confirm before exchanging contracts.
Structural condition
- When were the stumps last replaced? What material are the existing stumps? (Timber, concrete, adjustable steel)
- Is the subfloor showing signs of rot, moisture damage or termite activity?
- Are bearers and joists in sound condition?
- Is the floor noticeably unlevel? In which direction and how much?
- What is the current clearance height under the floor?
- Are there any visible signs of structural distress in the main frame (cracks in linings, racked doorways)?
Recommended: Engage a structural engineer for a pre-purchase feasibility assessment, particularly if you are planning a raise or major renovation.
Pest history
- Is there evidence of active or past termite activity?
- What is the current termite protection (barrier type, last inspection date)?
- Is there evidence of borer in the subfloor timbers?
Asbestos
- Does the property have an asbestos register or prior assessment?
- What are the likely asbestos locations? (Eaves, fascias, floor sheeting, cladding, ceilings)
- Has any asbestos been disturbed or damaged?
Services and utilities
- When was the electrical wiring last assessed or upgraded?
- Does the property have an RCD (safety switch) and are circuit breakers current?
- What is the pipe material for water supply? (Copper, galvanised, PVC)
- Is there a gas connection?
- What NBN connection type serves the property?
Planning and overlay
- Is the property in a character or pre-1947 overlay? (Check Brisbane City Plan 2014)
- Is the property in a flood overlay or near a waterway?
- Has the property been assessed for its heritage significance?
- What is the current zoning and what uses/densities are permitted?
- What development approvals exist on the property? (Request a Search Results Certificate)
Raise and build-under feasibility (if planning to raise)
- What is the fall across the block? (A significant slope can complicate the build-under)
- Are there any structures (garages, sheds) that would need to be relocated?
- Is there adequate side access for raising equipment?
- What is the approximate footprint of the house? (~150 m² and above supports a worthwhile build-under)
- What raise height is achievable given the slope and council requirements?
Ask the agent or vendor
- Has the house been relocated? (Relocated Queenslanders have complex histories)
- Has any work been done without council approval?
- Are there any known structural issues or previous repairs?
- What is the reason for sale?
Get professional advice
- Standard building and pest inspection (minimum)
- Structural engineer pre-purchase assessment (recommended for raise/build-under)
- Asbestos assessment (recommended for pre-1990 property)
- Town planner review of overlay implications (recommended if in character overlay)
- Conveyancer or solicitor review of title and contract
Pre-purchase Queenslander checklist: FAQ
Do I need a building inspection when buying a Queenslander?
Yes. A standard building and pest inspection should be the minimum for any Queenslander purchase. For a property you intend to raise or significantly renovate, a structural engineer's assessment adds significant value at relatively low cost.
What should I look for in a Queenslander's subfloor?
Signs of termite damage or activity, rot in timber stumps and bearers, moisture staining, inadequate ventilation (blocked vents or low clearance), borer damage in timbers and inadequate bracing between stumps. A building inspector can assess all of these.
How much does a pre-purchase structural assessment cost?
On our project, a structural engineer's pre-purchase feasibility assessment cost in the order of $500-$2,000 depending on engineer and scope. Current Brisbane rates will be higher. Whatever the current cost, the assessment is small relative to the total project cost and represents significant risk mitigation: confirm current rates with engineers directly.
Practical tool
Get the Build-Under Budget Toolkit: $79
The Coorparoo build-under line items in a working planning workbook: quote entry, contingency, payment schedule and a glossary. Use it through your own project, not just as a reference.
One-time purchase. Instant download. 30-day refund.