Owner Inspections - Building and Pest Inspections Australia

New Construction Stage
Inspections

Navigate Each Construction Phase with Confidence through Our Expert New Construction Stage Inspections.

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EXCELLENT

Based on 147 reviews

S

Sarah Mitchell

2 weeks ago

Excellent service from start to finish. The inspector was thorough and professional, and the report was delivered within...

J

James Thompson

1 month ago

Very impressed with the level of detail in the inspection report. The inspector found issues that we would have never no...

M

Michelle Kovac

3 weeks ago

Professional and knowledgeable team. They took the time to explain everything and answer all our questions. The thermal ...

D

David Lee

1 week ago

Used Owner Inspections for our pre-purchase inspection. The report was comprehensive and easy to understand. The inspect...

E

Emma Wilson

5 days ago

Outstanding service! The building inspector was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to walk us through every findi...

R

Robert Chen

2 weeks ago

Fantastic experience from booking to receiving the report. The online system made scheduling easy, and the inspector arr...

L

Lisa Anderson

1 month ago

Highly professional team. The pest inspection was thorough and they provided great advice on prevention. The report was ...

M

Mark Taylor

3 weeks ago

Best building inspection service in Australia. They found structural issues that other inspectors missed. Saved us thous...

Why Choose Owner Inspections?

Latest Tools and Technologies

  • Honesty and Courtesy
  • Best Value For Money
  • Free Consultation
  • Licensed Company
  • Qualified and Experienced Inspectors
  • Modern Systems
  • Fully Insured
  • Thorough Inspections
  • Easy-To-Understand, Detailed Reports
  • Fixed Price, No Extras
  • Exceptional Customer Service
  • Hassle-Free Coordination
  • Fast Turnaround
  • 24/7 Booking System

Last updated: 12 February 2025

Why Are Construction Stage Inspections Important?

Construction stage inspections are key to confirming that every aspect of your new home meets high standards of compliance, quality, and safety. These inspections occur at crucial moments during building to identify issues early, reduce costly corrections, and ensure compliance with building codes while protecting your investment.

How We Protect Your Investment:

By conducting thorough inspections at each critical stage, we identify defects before they become hidden behind walls, under floors, or within the structure. Our detailed reports give you the evidence needed to ensure your builder addresses any issues before proceeding, saving you thousands in potential future repairs.

When Should I Book a Construction Stage Inspection?

Our inspections are essential for various construction scenarios

Building a New House

Building a New House

Ensure every stage of your new home build meets quality and safety standards.

Buying Off The Plan

Buying Off The Plan

Protect your investment by verifying construction quality before settlement.

Buying a New Home

Buying a New Home

Confirm the property was built to code and identify any defects before purchase.

Extending or Renovating

Extending or Renovating

Ensure your extension or renovation meets building codes and quality standards.

Report Inclusions

Our construction stage inspections provide comprehensive documentation and peace of mind throughout your building journey. Each inspection ensures your investment is protected and your home is built to the highest standards.

  • Ensuring work meets safety and quality standards
  • Detecting potential issues before project completion
  • Reducing future repair costs
  • Documenting completed work and timelines
  • Confirming building code compliance
  • Verifying engineering specifications
  • Detailed photographic evidence
  • Same-day comprehensive reports

The Team at Owner Inspections are available at all hours to take your query. Click the Request Quote button below to get in touch with our Construction Stage Inspection Specialists today!

Construction stage inspectors

Six Construction Stages We Inspect

Comprehensive inspections at every critical phase of your build

1

Bored Piers (Screw Piles)

Optional

Verification of foundation stability by inspecting the depth, positioning, and integrity of bored piers or screw piles before concrete is poured, ensuring alignment with architectural plans.

Inspection Checklist:

  • Location of the piers
  • Number of piers
  • Depth of piers
  • Diameter of piers
  • Alignment and verticality
  • Site condition and type
  • Grouting integrity

Example Defects:

Visible Deterioration
Visible Deterioration
Alignment Issues
Alignment Issues
Water Intrusion
Water Intrusion
Incorrect Bore Sizing
Incorrect Bore Sizing
View Sample Report
2

Slab Pre-Pour

Assessment of site preparation for concrete slab, verifying that reinforcement bars, waffle pods, and related components are correctly positioned per engineering specifications.

Inspection Checklist:

  • Adherence to National Construction Codes (NCC)
  • Stormwater and sewer pipes
  • Rebars and steel reinforcement size
  • Expansion joints and curing systems
  • Engineering plans compliance
  • Forming and waffle placement
  • AS/NZS steel reinforcing requirements
  • Concrete cover and slab thickness
  • Vapour barriers
  • Steel placement, laps and fixings
  • Slab penetrations
  • Soil conditions
  • Shrinkage steels

Example Defects:

Improper Reinforcement
Improper Reinforcement
Uneven Surface
Uneven Surface
Reinforcement Defects
Reinforcement Defects
Voids and Pockets
Voids and Pockets
View Sample Report
3

Frame Inspection (Post Slab Inspection - Internal and External)

Structural frame assessment for compliance with construction codes and design plans, including evaluation of frame integrity, material use, and installation quality.

Inspection Checklist:

  • National Construction Codes (NCC) requirements
  • Structural integrity (timber and steel)
  • Connections, brackets and tie-downs
  • Wall and roof fixings
  • Bracing material and fixings
  • Site drainage and grading
  • Roof, trusses and framing
  • Australian Standards (AS 1684) compliance
  • Timber flooring
  • Slab surface, levelling, cracks, edges and step downs
  • Termite protection
  • Door and window openings
  • Beams, columns and lintels
  • Walls, studs and noggings
  • Timber quality
  • Pipe locations

Example Defects:

Improperly Secured Bracket
Improperly Secured Bracket
Timber Frame Split
Timber Frame Split
Gaps in Frame
Gaps in Frame
Missing Fasteners
Missing Fasteners
View Sample Report
4

Lock-Up (Pre-Plaster | Free Visible Frame Reassessment)

Evaluation of the building external enclosure before interior plastering begins, assessing windows, doors, and roofing for security and weather resistance.

Inspection Checklist:

  • Roof cladding (tiles, steel, etc.)
  • Roof fixings
  • Gutters and fascia
  • Wall plumbness and straightness
  • Substrate and sisalation
  • Structural elements
  • Penetrations
  • Electrical wiring and plumbing points
  • Downpipes
  • Windows and doors
  • Flashings
  • Trims and eaves
  • Exterior cladding
  • Ventilation
  • Insulation
  • Deviation tolerances

Example Defects:

Piping Termination Defect
Piping Termination Defect
Improperly Sealed Piping
Improperly Sealed Piping
Drainage Issues
Drainage Issues
Roof Alignment
Roof Alignment
View Sample Report
5

Fixing including Waterproofing

Review of internal fixings including doors, cabinets, benchtops, and installation of plumbing and electrical components. Also includes verification of waterproofing in wet areas such as bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens.

Inspection Checklist:

  • National Construction Codes (NCC) requirements
  • Internal doors and hardware
  • Cabinets and benchtops
  • Plumbing fixtures and tapware
  • Electrical switches and outlets
  • Waterproofing membrane installation
  • Wet area floor falls
  • Shower screen provisions
  • Tile preparation surfaces
  • Skirting and architraves
  • Paint preparation
  • Ventilation systems

Example Defects:

Waterproofing Issues
Waterproofing Issues
Door Frame Crack
Door Frame Crack
Render Gap
Render Gap
Improper Shower Install
Improper Shower Install
View Sample Report
6

Completion (PCI) Pre-Handover

Final inspection before handover to ensure all work is complete, defects are rectified, and the property meets quality standards ready for occupancy. This comprehensive assessment covers all visible elements.

Inspection Checklist:

  • All previous stage items verified
  • Paint finish and quality
  • Floor coverings and tiles
  • Doors and windows operation
  • Plumbing functionality
  • Electrical functionality
  • Appliance installation
  • External works and landscaping
  • Driveway and paths
  • Fencing and gates
  • Overall finish quality
  • Cleaning and presentation

Example Defects:

Downpipe Issues
Downpipe Issues
Door Frame Waterproofing
Door Frame Waterproofing
Door Frame Crack
Door Frame Crack
Render Gap
Render Gap
View Sample Report

Benefits for New Home Builders

Identify defects early before they are hidden behind walls and concrete
Ensure compliance with National Construction Codes at every stage
Hold your builder accountable with documented evidence
Prevent costly rectification work after handover
Verify engineering specifications are met throughout construction
Protect your warranty rights with professional documentation
Independent assessment not influenced by your builder
Same-day detailed reports with photographic evidence

Protect your new home investment with professional stage inspections - give the Owner Inspections Team a call today! 1300 471 805

Benefits for new home builders

Benefits for Off-the-Plan Buyers

Verify the finished product matches your contract specifications
Document defects before settlement for developer rectification
Independent pre-settlement assessment of construction quality
Identify variations from approved plans and specifications
Protect your investment from hidden construction issues
Expert knowledge of Australian building standards and tolerances
Reports accepted by builders, developers, and tribunals
Licensed and insured inspectors across Australia

Buying off the plan? Ensure your new property meets the standards you are paying for - give the Owner Inspections Team a call today! 1300 471 805

Benefits for off-the-plan buyers

Get Your Free Expert Quote Today

Need a construction stage inspection? Our qualified inspectors are ready to assess your property and provide a comprehensive, professional report.

Latest Tools and Technology

We use state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate and comprehensive inspections

Cloud-Based Reports

Cloud-Based Reports

Thermal Imaging Camera

Thermal Imaging Camera

Moisture Hygrometer

Moisture Hygrometer

Termatrac T3i Radar

Termatrac T3i Radar

Digital Inclinometer

Digital Inclinometer

DJI Mavic 3 Drone

DJI Mavic 3 Drone

Construction Stage Inspection FAQs

Answers to common questions about our construction stage inspection services

A construction stage inspection is a professional assessment conducted at key milestones during the building process. These inspections verify that work meets building codes, safety standards, and quality requirements before construction progresses to the next phase.

Construction stage inspections identify defects and non-compliance issues early, before they become hidden behind walls or concrete. This prevents costly corrections later, ensures your home is built to code, and protects your investment throughout the building process.

We recommend inspecting six key stages: Bored Piers/Screw Piles (optional), Slab Pre-Pour, Frame, Lock-Up (Pre-Plaster), Fixing including Waterproofing, and Completion (PCI) Pre-Handover. Each stage covers critical elements that will be inaccessible once construction continues.

Book each inspection after your builder notifies you that a stage is complete but before they proceed to the next phase. Timing is crucial as some elements become inaccessible once the next stage begins. Contact us as soon as you receive notification from your builder.

All defects are documented in a detailed report with photographs. You can then present this report to your builder who is required to rectify the issues before proceeding. Our reports provide clear evidence to support your position and ensure compliance with building codes.

Yes, our inspectors are licensed building professionals with extensive experience in residential construction. Owner Inspections holds licenses in multiple Australian states including Victorian Building Authority (VBA), NSW Fair Trading, Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), and Australian Society of Building Consultants membership.

Each stage inspection typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the size of the property and complexity of the construction. We thoroughly examine all accessible elements relevant to that stage, with additional time possible for complex properties at no extra charge.

Our promise is a full report within 24 hours of your inspection completion, guaranteed. Reports are delivered via cloud-based online link, PDF email attachment, and SMS link for convenient access.

Our inspectors can work independently. You can submit requests 24 hours ahead via our online checklist system, though attendance is welcome if OHS requirements are met. This gives you the opportunity to see the construction progress firsthand and ask questions.

Yes, our construction stage inspections are suitable for new builds, renovations, and extensions. The same stages apply to ensure quality and compliance throughout the construction process.

No. Travel expenses are included in our fixed fee with no additional transportation costs. Our fixed-price quotations cover all inspection costs with no hidden charges upon agreement.

Yes, free rescheduling is available with 24-hour advance notice. We understand that construction timelines can change and we are flexible to accommodate your needs.

Yes, we provide ATO-acceptable invoices and receipts for eligible tax deductions. Contact your accountant to confirm your specific situation.

Owner Inspections provides construction stage inspections across major metropolitan areas in Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and surrounding regions. Contact us to confirm availability in your area.

While all stages are important, the frame stage and slab pre-pour are considered the most critical. These elements become completely hidden once construction progresses, making defects extremely expensive to rectify later. We recommend inspecting all stages for complete protection.

No. As the property owner, you have the right to arrange independent inspections at any stage of construction. Most building contracts include provisions for owner inspections. If your builder objects, this may be a warning sign worth investigating further.

Yes, you can book inspections at any remaining stage of construction. While inspecting all stages provides the best coverage, later stage inspections still add significant value. Our inspectors will assess all visible and accessible elements at the current stage of your build.

Yes, stage inspections are valuable for all construction types including kit homes, modular builds, and prefabricated homes. The inspection stages may differ slightly depending on the construction method, but quality and compliance checks remain equally important.

Council inspections verify minimum compliance with building regulations and are typically brief. Our independent stage inspections are far more thorough, checking workmanship quality, Australian Standards compliance, and identifying defects that council inspectors are not required to assess.

Yes, we offer package pricing for multiple stage inspections that provides significant savings compared to booking each stage individually. Contact us for a customised quote based on your property details and the number of stages you would like inspected.

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