Why do Victorian’s Need a House Inspection
Typically, the handover inspection or practical completion inspection (PCI) is an assessment of the building work of your new home. This is undertaken when the builder issues notice of PCI. Once this occurs, the building inspector generally attends at the agreed time. A comprehensive inspection is then undertaken to assess the build for non-compliance structural issues. Substandard workmanship defects are also noted.
Master Building Inspectors also offer construction stage inspections at the key stages of the construction process including: Slab Down, frame stage, lockup and handover.
Each inspector has an extensive list of items to check at each of these stages. The PCI is not designed to replace the checks conducted during the various construction stage inspections. This is due to obstructions and finishes applied, as the structural elements are no longer visible at the PCI stage and time restrictions that also apply.
The types of items we inspect during our PCI include:
Roof cavity
- Roof frame for AS 1684.2 compliance
- Insulation
- Connection of exhaust fans/flumes
- Sarking (vapour barrier)
Roof Cover
- Hip, ridge & valley flashings
- Eaves sheeting
- Gable ends
- Tiles or colourbond installation
External Walls
- Brickwork
- Window & doors
- Flyscreens
- Render & paintwork
Internal Areas
- Quality of finish
- Ceilings
- Cabinetry
- Wall & floor tiles
- Plumbing fixtures & fittings
- Flooring
- Doors, handles and hinges
- Internal walls
- Windows
- Drainage of basins/baths etc
What are the benefits of a House Inspection?
The handover inspection is conducted between the client, your builder’s supervisor and Master Building Inspectors Melbourne. Generally we prefer to attend the PCI at the same time as the client and supervisor. Therefore, we can then conduct the inspection and can discuss any items on site upon completion. We can also carry out the inspection the day before PCI depending upon the builders requirements. The builder will then have 10 working days to rectify the identified issues. A typed PDF report is then sent by email within 24 hours.
Please note that practical completion does not mean that your new home is complete. Numerous items are always identified at this stage of construction that are not always 100% complete.
Further information on structural inspections can be found following these links: Master Building Inspectors Facebook page
