Cornerstone Property Inspection Services Ltd

17/05/2026

I do love the advertising of many homes that fall into the 'rare' fad seemingly adorning many listings... If they are all 'rare' surely that is normal...?

17/05/2026

Well as we roll through 2026 at a rate of knots, the new build issues appear to be persisting. One issues raised 100% is the use unsecured illuminated bathroom mirrors where the mains connections are inferior to the point where twisted wires have been sighted wrapped in second hand insulating tape!! The use of a PCU (Permanent Connection Unit) should be the only answer to resolving these high risk installs.
The usual 'tell us what needs fixing' is a greeting I frown upon every-single-time... The project manager should have 'managed' the completion stages to have the dwelling fit for market, not hidden behind doorstep statements and poor finishing...

03/08/2025

We were involved with a journalist to construct an article on new builds a few months ago. The herald has followed up with some further articles.

This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

19/12/2023

After a lengthy rehabilitation as a result of a nasty hamstring tear injury in June...I am now back into all things inspection.
Note: Don't do the splits on a wet deck and test your hamstrings. In fact, this may be the very time to consider paying some attention to your decking systems whilst the weather is pleasant (and long may it last..!) 😀😀😀😀😀

21/03/2023

Recently the work flow has trended toward a reasonable number of 'as new' homes. The opportunity to review new builds around Auckland can be a pleasure with many well finished and well presented homes encompassing new fashionable fittings and design layouts the former norm. Some of these would have some minor and some reasonable issues to attend to prior to handover. mostly nothing significant. However, I feel the need to comment on the noticeable low quantity of 'as new' homes reviewed with significant issues and poor finishing to many areas. I am now of the opinion that some / all new homes should be treated with care and should be assessed and reviewed accordingly.
We have always recommended a professional property inspection prior to handover, if nothing else just to verify that any minor defects can be highlighted and addressed accordingly.
Be mindful, new is 'new' don't be caught up with the sale antics of some.

20/08/2022

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/weather-more-heavy-rain-flood-fears-in-nelson-marlborough-kaitaia-cut-off-by-slips/DCT5R37ENS3YPTEI5VXKM7RZU4/ #

Hundreds of people have been displaced from their homes due to slips and flooding.

20/08/2022

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/duped-first-home-buyers-awarded-900000-in-damages-over-leaky-south-auckland-home/37EJCG5W7QK3PRTE67P2374NU4/ #

A judge found the vendor and building inspector deliberately deceived the buyers.

21/06/2022

It would so seem the property market is taking a slower pace (and a somewhat welcome one).
This is a potential marker for property price reductions and a 'buyers market' attitude allowing parties to take advantage. However, industries associated with the sale and purchase process can become cut throat with discounts and special offers shaving costs and likely quality is something that clients should be aware of.
Quality and professionalism should still be front and foremost on peoples minds when needing the correct information on their most expensive investment purchases.
I am not in a habit of allowing issues to slip through the net and as such have built a strong reputation for providing the right documentation at the right price, however, if you think i am too expensive let me know and I will see what i can do, no promises. I am in the market to present the information at a fair price. I don't allow my clients to pay good money for complacency.

24/01/2022

Back to it for the new year with Omicron chasing us seems a little daunting, but i am up for the task. Operating with all appropriate health and hygiene protocols, double vaxed plus Booster, bring it on.
With all the usual professionalism we offer, we will make your journey in or out of your home a smooth transition.

02/11/2021

As we inevitably roll toward the festive season, things get busy with slice of frantic... We are all a little on edge for one reason or another, lets keep it together and be mindful of others (and our own health best interests).
We are open for business during level 3 and stage 2 of the same complying with on-site hygiene requirements and of course safety best practice protocols.
Email me early to promote your presence, putting yourself on our radar will give us some ability to act faster and more efficiently, I like that...
Stay safe and don't forget keep left unless overtaking...

05/11/2020

After many years of serving the industry in residential and light commercial building inspection, I tire of hearing from clients how some real estate agents are intent on deferring my services on the basis that I am a 'deal breaker'. Some even go to the lengths of directly stating I should not be engaged as I am too thorough...!
Although it is kind of comical because most potential purchasers are engaging the services of property inspector to be thorough. I do find the whole notion that apparent 'respected' sales personnel would delve into the underhanded methods of defamation seriously overstepping their obligations to provide 'sales' services.
The more honourable real estate agents are, in fact, far more inclined to recommend my services (although currently not capable of directly recommending us).
This is not a whinge or complaint, just a point of interest. However, the actions of agents who actively attempt to discredit us may just be allowing you as the paying customer / potential purchaser to see their unethical approach.😉