What are Stage Construction Inspections and what is inspected?

• Slab – The initial focus of stage inspection reports is typically the slab, which takes place after it’s been poured and allowed to cure (dry). With a copy of the building plans, an SHS building inspector will ensure the dimensions and size of the slab are accurate, plumbing is placed correctly and the workmanship is of acceptable quality. Your inspector will carefully evaluate any cracks, compare them for structurl tolerances and inform you if they’re significant to the project. Also checking to make sure the slab work is completed in accordance with the plans and to applicable Australian Standards.
• Wall and Roof Framing – After a slab has been poured, dried and inspected, the next step in construction will be the framing of the walls and roof. When framing has been completed, an inspector will use building plans and specifications to ensure the roof frame conforms with those plans and AUstralian Standards. During this stage of the inspection, they’ll also determine appropriate wall placement, as well making sure windows and doors are the right dimensions and in the right place. Tie down straps will also be inspected to make sure they’re correctly installed.
• Lock-Up Stage – When the roof is on your new home and the brickwork is complete, construction has moved into the lock-up stage. This means services are installed and the roof is on, but insulation, wall and ceiling coverings have not yet been added. Stage construction inspections up to this point will focus on ensuring general workmanship throughout the completed build is adequate, including correct installation of bricklaying, roof covering and the frame is ready for insulation. Additionally, an inspector will look at services like plumbing, gas and electrical to make sure they’re located in the appropriate places and are installed according to standard. Structural components will be checked against the building plans to make sure they’re in accordance, and the building works are prepared for finishing surface material installation.
• Practical Completion– The final stage of inspection will take place after the builder has indicated the construction project is completed before the keys have been handed over to the new owners. At this time, an inspector will complete a detailed inspection of all the finished materials and workmanship, including any cabinets, ceilings, bathrooms, rendering, brick cleaning and plastering. The workmanship will be checked to make sure all work has been completed to an acceptable standard in accordance with the plans.