New Build Stage Inspections
New build stage inspections are an important part of the building process. They ensure that each ‘stage’ of the build has been properly and correctly completed.
Obviously, if one part of the build is not correctly completed it can have significant flow-on effects on the rest of the build. In some cases, it can impact the building for years to come. Likewise, it becomes more difficult to rectify issues as more stages are finished.
Hence, the importance of making sure each stage of the build is correctly completed. There are 5 essential stage inspections that need to be completed during the building process.
1. Foundation Slab Stage
The foundation stage is conducted after the foundation has been installed but before the concreate slab is poured. The inspection checks the boxing, trenches, steel reinforcement and other items. It is no exaggeration to say that the foundation inspection is one of the most important new build stage inspections. If there are issues with the foundation, it will likely impact the structural integrity of the home. Foundation slab issues can lead to cracking in walls, floors and ceiling. If the slab is uneven, it can even mean that windows and doors won’t open properly when installed.
2. Frame Stage
This stage inspection is completed after the wall and roof frame is complete but before installation of wall linings begin. Typically, the builder will engage a building surveyor to check that the frame is built to code and regulations. However, a building surveyor doesn’t check the quality of workmanship. Unfortunately, this means that major frame defects are missed. A thorough inspection by a building inspector will check that the walls are straight, bracing is correct, that the frame is correctly placed on the slab and more.
3. Lock-Up Stage
As the name suggests, this stage inspection is checking whether the house is water-tight and safe. This inspection is conducted once the roof covering, external wall cladding/brickwork and flashings have been installed. Both the interior and exterior is checked to make sure all building elements are correctly secured, straight and installed. This can include checking the gutters, roofing, external doors and windows, locks on windows, insulation wrap, eaves and weepholes.
4. Pre-Painting Stage
A pre-painting stage inspection is completed after the plaster has been installed and the internal fix is finished. The internal fix refers to doors, architraves, skirting boards, built-in wardobes, baths, sinks, cabinets and cupboards have been ‘fixed’ into place. This inspection is important because many defects can be hidden with paint, flooring and tiles. You don’t want to get caught out having to rectify these issues after you move in.
5. Handover Inspection
This inspection is probably the most exciting stage inspection and the most important. It is the final inspection of the property before you make the final payment and take possession. By this stage, there should be no outstanding major defects as these should have been picked up in the previous stage inspections.
However, a handover inspection (also known as a practical completion inspection) checks the quality of workmanship and identifies any minor defects that require rectification. Such as paint touch-ups, missing door handles, incomplete caulking, broken tiles, damaged render and much more.
Although these issues won’t compromise the livability of the property, they can be unsightly and are certainly not what you’re expecting from a new build. It is important to have these issues rectified by the builder before you make the final payment.
What should I do if I have issues with my builder?
Unfortunately, it isn't unheard of for people to have issues with their builders. Queensland Building and Construction Commission is your best point of contact should you have any issues with the builder. They are Queensland's official regulation body and will be able to provide accurate advice and recommendations on how to proceed.
Have peace of mind with stage inspections from Local Inspections
Regardless of which stage your build is up to, we can help! We provide quality new build stage inspections (Greater Brisbane, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast area only) and handover inspections across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Maryborough, Ipswich and Gold Coast.
All our inspectors have over 30 years of experience within the building industry. They are highly experienced at finding major and minor defects. If you would like to book or find out more, contact us via the buttons below!