Our New Construction Inspection Services Newcastle
Frame Pre-Sheet Inspection (Frame Stage)
This critical inspection occurs before wall linings cover the framework. At this stage, we assess:
- Timber or steel framework – floor, wall, and roof framing quality
- Structural compliance – ensuring work meets building codes
- Brickwork and masonry – checking for proper installation
- Roof tiling and flashing – verifying weatherproofing
- Window and door installation – testing fit and function
- Wall cladding – assessing material quality and installation
- Site safety standards – identifying hazards
Additionally, we advise you about essential certifications your builder must provide. Furthermore, we deal directly with your builder and site supervisors to ensure they understand our findings and rectification requirements.
Timing: Schedule this inspection once framing is complete but before wall linings are installed.
Practical Completion Inspection (PCI)
A practical completion inspection is conducted once your new home is built and complete, prior to handover. This is your last chance to identify defects before you pay the final payment and move in.
During this new construction inspection in Newcastle, we thoroughly assess:
- Overall workmanship quality across all trades
- Compliance with approved plans and building standards
- Finish quality – painting, tiling, flooring, fixtures
- Electrical and plumbing function – testing all systems
- Doors, windows and locks – verifying operation
- Incomplete works – documenting what’s not finished
This is the most important stage in your building contract. As the homeowner, you hold the power to have defects rectified before handover. Moreover, you can withhold final payment until work is completed satisfactorily.
Pro tip: Never move in before defects are fixed. Working around builders after you’ve moved in is incredibly disruptive.
90-Day Defect Inspection
Schedule this inspection within 90 days of completion. Many defects only become apparent after you’ve lived in the property for a few months. For example, you might notice:
- Doors sticking or not closing properly
- Cracks appearing in walls or ceilings
- Plumbing leaks or drainage issues
- Paint defects or finishing problems
Importantly, after three months, your builder’s warranty liability period for minor non-structural issues expires. Therefore, this inspection ensures you identify problems while they’re still covered under the builder’s initial warranty.
Your home warranty coverage:
- 2 years for minor defects
- 6 years for major structural defects
Learn more about Home Building Compensation Fund requirements.
Home Owner Warranty Inspection (Before Warranty Expires)
If you’re approaching the end of your 6 or 7-year builder’s warranty period, this inspection is essential. We identify any building defects your original builder is legally obligated to rectify before the warranty expires.
Our warranty inspections cover:
- New homes and subdivisions
- Duplexes and dual occupancies
- Units and villa developments
- Major additions and extensions
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
After completion, we provide a detailed warranty inspection report you can submit to your builder or insurer for defect rectification.
