Independent Building Inspections & Renovation Oversight in Porto
I’m an Australian builder with 25 years of experience delivering high-quality construction, renovation, and property consulting projects. Over the past three years, we’ve worked on dozens of renovations and historic building restorations here in Porto, supporting over 40 expat clients — buyers, investors, and homeowners — through every stage of their property journey.
What’s become clear is this: most properties here hide far more than agents or sellers will ever admit. Structural failures, poor renovations, concealed damp — problems that cost serious money once discovered too late.
That’s exactly why we founded Antipodean Building Services — to provide expats with a truly independent, builder-led service designed to protect their investment from day one.
We deliver detailed building inspections, accurate renovation budgets, and expert advice grounded in decades of hands-on construction experience — not agent sales talk or vague reports. Every inspection combines practical building knowledge with specialist technology, including drone roof surveys, thermal imaging, and moisture detection — exposing risks others overlook.
With a trusted network of engineers, architects, legal experts, and premium trades, we provide end-to-end support — from initial due diligence to managing full-scale renovations. Whether you’re buying, renovating, or safeguarding your investment, we protect you every step of the way.
We’re a husband and wife team, with Mafalda — a Porto local — leading site and project management. Together, we bring international experience, deep local knowledge, and a hands-on approach designed to protect what matters most — your investment, your time, and your peace of mind.
"25+ years of hands-on building experience protecting your investment. We find the risks others miss."
Building inspections & Premium Renovation Services
"We’re builders, not salesmen. Our experience, and local knowledge sets us apart. We know where the real risks and costs are — long before you sign."
Our Services & Packages
These packages cover the essentials — but every property’s different.
Need a specific defect inspection, targeted reporting, or tailored advice? No problem.
We’re happy to discuss what your project needs and build the right service around it.
Additional services can be arranged and quoted to suit your situation.
"We work for you - Not the agents"
Buying & renovating property in Portugal can be risky — especially if you don’t know what’s hiding behind the walls. We’re here to protect you. As experienced builders, we understand the local construction quirks and the shortcuts often missed in glossy real estate listings.
We work independently — no agents, no commissions — just straight advice in plain English. Our job is simple: protect your investment, spot costly mistakes before you sign, and help you buy with confidence.
REVIEWS
Tim M.
“Brad and Mafalda are top-class professionals — skilled, reliable, and trustworthy. A rare combination these days. They delivered on time, on budget, and the quality was second to none. I’d highly recommend their services.”
Facebook review
Eugene Evgen
“I highly recommend Bradley Cahill if you’re looking for a building inspector in Porto or Matosinhos. I found him through the Porto Expats group, and I’m so glad I did.
Brad did a thorough inspection for me on very short notice, and honestly, it gave me huge peace of mind. He flagged potential problem areas, explained everything clearly, and was incredibly professional and friendly throughout the process.
He delivered a detailed report with recommendations and follow-up questions — which helped me handle a very stressful situation. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about buying a property here, I couldn’t recommend Bradley more.”
Porto Expat Group ( Facebook )
Shirley & Paul
“Shoutout to Bradley Cahill for his professional service as a property inspector during our recent real estate inquiry in Porto.
He’s not just a building inspector — he’s a builder himself and an expat, which made a huge difference. His pricing was fair, and the feedback he provided on our potential purchase was exceptionally detailed and clear.
Hopefully, you won’t get too busy for future collaborations — we’d absolutely work with you again!”
Porto Expat group ( Facebook )
Katie Emma
"Highly recommend Brad and his team. We needed a last-minute building inspection before committing to a property in Porto, and Brad made time for us — even after hours. He was thorough, incredibly helpful, and patient with all our questions as nervous first-home buyers. His advice and insights gave us real confidence. Brad’s hard to book for good reason — his work speaks for itself. Thanks, mate — looking forward to working with you again on the deck!"
Facebook review
Report & Inspection Disclaimer
Antipodean Building Services LDA provides pre-purchase building inspections, reports, and consulting based on a thorough visual assessment of the accessible areas at the time of inspection. Our reports reflect professional opinions designed to help you make informed decisions, but they are not guarantees or warranties of the property’s condition.
While every care is taken during our inspection, some hidden issues or future problems may not be visible or detectable at the time. If further investigation is needed, we’re happy to assist or recommend specialist assessments.
Reports are prepared for the named client and intended for their use. If you’d like to share the report, just let us know and we can authorise it in writing.
For any structural, legal, or technical concerns beyond the general inspection, our team can organise further specialist input if required.
By using our services, you agree to these terms.