Premium Renovation & Property Inspection services in Porto & Northern Portugal
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Worried about hidden problems, renovation costs, or finding a trustworthy contractor?
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We offer independent building inspections, expert renovation advice, and full construction management—with a reputation built on over 25 years of experience across Australia, the UK, and Portugal. Known for our honesty, technical insight, and high-end results, we help clients avoid costly mistakes and achieve the premium finish they’re aiming for.
At Antipodean Building Services, we combine practical building knowledge with design-led renovation planning to ensure you make confident, informed decisions—whether you're buying, restoring, or undertaking a full renovation in Portugal.
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Pre-Purchase Building Inspections
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Get a detailed, independent report from a seasoned builder—not a checklist-style surveyor. We identify hidden defects, structural risks, moisture issues, and poor-quality renovations that typical agents miss.
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Renovation & Construction Services
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From full gut renovations to heritage upgrades, we manage every detail—planning, budgeting, and overseeing works—with a network of top-tier trades and suppliers. You’ll get honest guidance, realistic timelines, and European-standard execution.
Architect & Designer Collaboration
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We work closely with Portuguese architects, interior designers, and engineers to turn your ideas into a functional, beautiful living space—blending form, function, and local style.
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Project Management
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Living abroad or managing remotely? We specialise in turnkey renovations for international clients—providing updates, documentation, and peace of mind at every stage.
The Team Behind the Build
Husband and wife team Mafalda and Bradley lead every project personally.
Bradley brings over 25 years of hands-on building experience across Australia, the UK, and Portugal. Mafalda, a Porto local runs sites alongside him and handles design and finishing details with precision and care.
Together, they blend technical expertise with aesthetic vision ensuring every job is done right and finished beautifully.
"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 contracts."
Our Services
Tailored Expertise for Every Property.
No two properties are the same and neither is our approach. Whether you need a full inspection, focused defect analysis, or expert guidance during a complex renovation, we’ll shape our service to fit. Additional work can be arranged and quoted to suit your needs.
"We Spot the Problems Before You Sign."
Buying and renovating in Portugal can be risky — especially when you don’t know what’s behind the walls.
We work independently to protect your interests, offering honest, expert advice in plain English. As experienced builders, we spot costly issues early, so you can buy with confidence and avoid expensive mistakes.
Not just Porto.
Based in Porto, but available across Portugal — including Lisbon, the Algarve, and more. Travel fees apply outside the Porto region.
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.”
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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.”
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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!”
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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!"
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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.