Practical completion inspection Adelaide
A builder-independent inspection of your new home before settlement. Identify defects while the builder is still obligated to fix them — before you accept the keys.
New buildings are not defect-free
Volume-built homes in South Australia are commonly handed over with defects — from minor fit-out issues to significant waterproofing failures, flashing defects, and structural shortfalls. Most contracts allow the builder to rectify defects identified before practical completion.
Once you accept the keys and sign off on practical completion, the burden of proof shifts. Defects identified after settlement require you to demonstrate they are construction defects — and builders may dispute them. An independent inspection before settlement gives you a documented defect list that is the builder’s obligation to address.
We conduct practical completion inspections as an independent party — we have no relationship with the builder, the developer, or the selling agent. Our obligation is to you.
Book Your PCI →Balcony membranes, wet area waterproofing, shower screens, and threshold seals are among the most common new-build defect categories.
Cracks, finishing defects, improper control joints, and render delamination in brick veneer and rendered construction.
Valley and step flashings, box gutters, and eave details — often inadequate in volume-built homes.
Door and window operation, cabinetry installation, tile work, paintwork, and hardware — the long list of finish-quality items.
Structural connections, LVL beam installation, bearing lengths, and bracing completeness.
Switchboard commissioning, GPO placement, plumbing connections, and hot water system installation.
Getting the most from your PCI
Before you accept practical completion
Book your inspection before you sign off on practical completion. The builder must be notified that an independent inspection will occur before handover.
We attend with full access
We attend with access to all areas of the completed home — all rooms, roof void, sub-floor (if accessible), garage, and outdoor areas.
Defect schedule delivered within 24 hours
You receive a clear, itemised defect schedule with photos. This document is designed to be handed directly to your builder as the formal defect list.
Builder rectification
The builder addresses items on the defect schedule. We can conduct a follow-up inspection to confirm rectification where required.
Common questions
When exactly should I book a practical completion inspection?
Book as soon as your builder advises that the home is approaching practical completion — ideally 1–2 weeks before the proposed practical completion date. This gives you time to schedule the inspection and allows the builder time to address any defects before you are asked to sign off.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes, and we encourage it. Walking through the home with your inspector allows you to understand the findings in context and ask questions about any item you are unclear on.
What if the builder disputes the defect list?
Our reports are AS 4349.1 compliant and prepared by a licensed building inspector. Defects are described with photographic evidence and referenced to appropriate standards where applicable. If a builder disputes an item, we are available to discuss the finding directly.
Can you do a handover inspection for an investment property or interstate buyer?
Yes. Many of our clients are interstate investors or buyers who cannot be present at handover. We attend on your behalf and provide a complete report — you can make an informed decision about whether to accept practical completion remotely.
- ✓Independent inspection
- ✓AS 4349.1 compliant
- ✓Builder-ready defect schedule
- ✓Photo documentation
- ✓24-hour report
- ✓Follow-up inspection available