Build with Confidence – New Home Building Inspections (Stage by Stage)

The Pre-Slab or Base Stage Inspection is conducted before the concrete slab is poured. This inspection focuses on ensuring that the site is correctly prepared for the foundation, which is crucial for the stability and longevity of the building.

Inspection Checklist:

• Site Preparation:
  • Check that the site is level and appropriately excavated.
  • Confirm that all vegetation, topsoil, and debris have been removed.
• Footings and Formwork:
  • Verify that footings are correctly excavated and reinforced.
  • Inspect formwork to ensure it is stable and correctly positioned.
• Steel Reinforcement:
  • Check that steel reinforcement (rebars) is properly installed and adequately supported.
  • Ensure that the reinforcement is free from rust and positioned according to the engineering plans.
• Moisture Barrier (Membrane):
  • Inspect the installation of the moisture barrier (plastic membrane) to ensure it covers the entire area and is properly taped at the seams.
  • Ensure the membrane is correctly positioned to prevent moisture ingress.
• Termite Protection:
  • Verify that termite protection measures, such as chemical barriers or physical barriers, are in place where required.

The Frame Stage Inspection is conducted after the wall and roof framing is completed. This inspection ensures that the structural framework of the building is constructed correctly and in compliance with the relevant standards.

Inspection Checklist:

• Wall and Roof Frames:
  • Check the quality and alignment of wall and roof framing, ensuring that all load-bearing elements are correctly installed.
  • Inspect the installation of bracing, noggins, and lintels for proper support.
• Windows and Door Openings:
  • Verify that window and door openings are correctly sized and positioned according to the plans.
  • Check that lintels and headers above openings are adequately supported.
• Roof Trusses and Rafters:
  • Ensure that roof trusses and rafters are installed as per engineering specifications.
  • Check for proper fixing of trusses to wall frames and ensure adequate bracing.
• Tie-Downs and Connections:
  • Inspect tie-downs and connections to confirm they meet structural requirements and are properly secured.
• Nail Plates and Fasteners:
  • Verify that nail plates, fasteners, and other metal connectors are correctly installed and comply with the design requirements.

The Lock-Up/Pre-Plaster Stage Inspection occurs when the building is fully enclosed, with the roof, external doors, and windows installed. This stage ensures that the framing is correctly completed and that services are properly installed before plastering begins.

Inspection Checklist:

• External Cladding:
  • Check the installation of external cladding, ensuring it is secure and weatherproof.
  • Inspect flashing and sealing around windows and doors for water tightness.
• Roof Covering and Guttering:
  • Verify that the roof covering is properly installed, with no gaps or potential leaks.
  • Inspect the guttering and downpipes for correct installation and adequate drainage.
• Plumbing and Electrical Rough-Ins:
  • Ensure that plumbing and electrical rough-ins are correctly positioned and comply with the relevant codes.
  • Check for proper insulation around plumbing and electrical conduits where required.
• Wall and Ceiling Insulation:
  • Inspect the installation of insulation in walls and ceilings, ensuring it meets energy efficiency standards.
  • Verify that insulation is evenly distributed and correctly installed without gaps or compression.
• Internal Framing:
  • Check internal framing for straightness and stability before plastering begins.
  • Inspect the fixing of internal walls, including any partitions, ensuring they are properly supported.

The Waterproofing Stage Inspection is carried out before tiling or other finishes are applied in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. This inspection ensures that waterproofing is properly installed to prevent future water damage.

Inspection Checklist:

• Waterproofing Membrane:
  • Inspect the waterproofing membrane for coverage, ensuring it extends sufficiently up walls and around fixtures.
  • Check that the membrane is properly sealed at corners, joints, and penetrations.
• Drainage Installation:
  • Verify that floor drains are correctly positioned and that the slope of the floor directs water towards the drains.
  • Inspect the connection of waterproofing to the drainage system to ensure no leaks.
• Shower Areas and Wet Zones:
  • Ensure that the shower area is fully waterproofed, including the floor and lower parts of the walls.
  • Inspect waterproofing around bath areas, basins, and other fixtures.
• Waterproofing Certification:
  • Confirm that the waterproofing application is completed by a certified applicator, where required.
  • Check for any visible defects, such as bubbles or gaps in the membrane.

The Final Stage Inspection, also known as Practical Completion, is conducted once the construction is fully completed and the building is ready for handover. This inspection ensures that the entire project complies with all building codes and standards and that it is safe and ready for occupancy.

Inspection Checklist:

• External Finishes:
  • Inspect all external finishes, including paintwork, cladding, and roofing, to ensure they are completed to a high standard.
  • Check that all external features, such as landscaping, driveways, and pathways, are properly finished and safe.
• Internal Finishes:
  • Verify that all internal finishes, including plastering, painting, and tiling, are completed to a high standard.
  • Inspect fixtures and fittings, such as doors, windows, cabinetry, and appliances, to ensure they are correctly installed and functional.
• Plumbing and Electrical Systems:
  • Test all plumbing fixtures and ensure that there are no leaks or blockages.
  • Verify that electrical systems, including lighting, power points, and appliances, are correctly installed and operational.
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Ensure that all safety features, such as smoke detectors, handrails, and balustrades, are correctly installed and comply with regulations.
  • Check for compliance with energy efficiency requirements, including insulation, glazing, and ventilation.
• Defect Identification:
  • Identify any remaining defects or unfinished work that needs to be addressed before handover.
  • Provide a comprehensive defect list for rectification before the final handover.