Building Inspection Checklist: What to Look For

When you are at the completion stage of your home build, it’s important to ensure the building is up to scratch so you don’t get a nasty (and potentially very expensive) surprise down the track.

As part of your handover from your builder, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct a building inspection.

Whether you choose an architect, building consultant or specialist building advisory inspector to undertake the inspection, check they are licensed and insured (professional indemnity and public liability are musts) and also provide a guarantee with their services.

Once they are engaged, you can agree on the scope of services, which should generally include an inspection of:

The interior and exterior of the building for any defects

The structure, including the foundations, walls, ceilings, for subsistence, damage, cracks, dampness

Outbuildings such as garages, carport, garden shed, detached laundry or toilet

The plumbing, including water pressure, drainage from the bath and other water outlets, leaks

Storm water run-off and surface water drainage

Any under-floor space

Wiring and electricity switches

Any gas connections

Fences, paths and driveways

Safety measures, such as operational RCD and smoke alarms

Any part of the building that overhangs an adjoining property

The roof and roof space, gutters, eaves and exposed pipes

If defects are found during the inspection, liaise with your builder to have them rectified within an agreed period.