What is proposed
Seller-arranged building and pest reports available to prospective buyers, with safeguards intended to protect buyers.
Victoria property seller guide · Updated 19 August 2026
Victoria pre-sale building and pest inspection changes: what sellers need to know
The Victorian Government has put pre-sale building and pest reports firmly on the agenda. See why sellers are getting organised early, and how a clear report can support a more prepared sale process.
ProposedPolicy announced March 2026
2027Legislation stated as intended
Plan aheadPrepare your sale with clear information
The official announcement, in plain English
A proposed seller-arranged report model.
The Government says it will develop a scheme in which sellers would organise and pay for building and pest inspections, then make reports available to prospective buyers before the sale.
Why sellers are acting early
Getting a report before listing gives you time to understand accessible findings and decide your next step with the right professionals.
Prepare for buyer questions
Clear condition information helps you begin conversations with your agent, conveyancer and prospective buyers from an informed position.
A practical reason to prepare
Put clear information in place before you list.
The Government's announcement puts seller-arranged building and pest reports at the centre of the conversation. For sellers, that makes early preparation a practical advantage—not a last-minute response to a buyer's inspection.
A pre-sale inspection gives you time to understand accessible findings, discuss them with your agent and conveyancer, and make considered decisions before the property is on the market.
For obligations in an active sale, speak with your conveyancer or legal practitioner. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Practical preparationClear condition information before listing
What sellers can do now
Prepare with information, not speculation.
A pre-sale report can give you a clear view of visible building conditions before buyer questions arise.
Useful next steps
- Arrange an independent pre-sale building inspection and a separate specialist pest inspection if required.
- Discuss findings with your agent, conveyancer and relevant trades.
- Keep buyer communications accurate and do not describe proposed policy as a current obligation.
Questions from sellers and buyers
Victoria pre-sale inspection questions.
Answers based on the official announcement and current Consumer Affairs Victoria guidance.
Are pre-sale reports currently mandatory in Victoria?
No general mandatory vendor scheme is currently in force. The Victorian Government announced a proposed scheme in March 2026 and said legislation to implement it would be introduced in 2027.
Can a buyer still arrange their own inspection?
Yes. The Government announcement says buyers could still arrange a separate inspection. Consumer Affairs Victoria currently advises buyers to consider their own independent building and pest report before signing a contract.
Should a seller wait for the legislation before arranging an inspection?
No current legal requirement is created by the announcement. A seller may choose to arrange a pre-sale inspection now to understand accessible conditions and prepare for buyer questions; obtain legal and conveyancing advice for your particular sale.
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