New Home Inspection Process
When buying an existing house, it goes without question that you’ll need to have a pre-purchase inspection to make sure that there are no hidden issues.
But, when it comes to buying a new home or newly built property, many buyers don’t consider getting an inspection. After all, why would you need one when everything’s brand new? However, new home inspections can be just as important as pre-purchase inspections – particularly in the bustling city of Melbourne.
Laws Covering New Home Inspections
All new homes in Melbourne must comply with the Building Code of Australia.
New home inspections are key to ensuring that this code is adhered to and all new builds meet the high quality standards expected. The New Home Warranty Scheme (NHWS) is a Victorian-based law that helps protect buyers against builders ‘breaking’ laws set out in the Building Code of Australia.
New home inspections are compulsory before a warranty is issued, so it’s important you know your legal rights as well as the risks associated with buying new property in Melbourne.
Importance of New Home Inspections
It can identify any existing faults in the building.
New home inspections are designed to uncover any issues or defects that could become costly further down the line. This includes identifying any issues with the building itself, such as ensuring the house is structurally sound and all appliances have been installed properly.
New home inspections also identify any defects or problems that may not be initially visible – meaning you can fix them before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems.
It gives you peace of mind.
Having a new home inspection is key to gaining peace of mind that your new property is safe and secure. New home inspections are an essential part of the building process, as they ensure that the build has been completed properly and to the highest standard – giving you assurance that your new home will last for years to come.
It can help to ensure that the builder has stuck to their contract.
It’s not uncommon for builders to cut corners in order to save time, money or resources. New home inspections can pick up on any instances where the builder has not stuck to their contract – meaning you’ll be able to hold them accountable and ensure that they make the necessary amendments.
What Does a New Home Inspection Cover?
Pre-Contract Inspection
A pre-contract inspection is a key part of the building process and usually takes place before the homeowner signs any paperwork. New home inspections will check that all building regulations have been followed, as well as ensuring that fixtures, fittings and features are working correctly.
Pre-Concrete Slab Pour Inspection
Before the concrete slab has been poured, an inspection can determine if there is any existing damage to the site or foundation that needs addressing. New home inspections will also check for proper drainage and compaction systems in place – helping to ensure your new property is built on a solid footing, following the Australian Standard AS 2870 – Residential Slabs and Footings.
Frame Stage Inspection
This type of inspection is carried out after the frame has been built, but before any other work is completed. New home inspections at this stage ensure that everything is square, level and plumb – as well as checking for any existing rot or damage to the structure of the building itself.
Lock Up Inspection
Once the walls, windows and roof have been installed it’s time for a lock up inspection. New home inspections at this stage are designed to check that all fixtures and fittings are in working order – as well as ensuring any insulation has been correctly installed.
Fixing & Waterproofing Inspection
After the property has been plastered and painted a fixing & waterproofing inspection is usually required. New home inspections at this stage check that all doors, windows and walls are sealed to prevent water damage – as well as ensuring all electrical work is completed safely and to code.
Pre-Handover & Pre Settlement PCI Inspection
This is the final inspection and aims to ensure that the building complies with all relevant regulations. New home inspections at this stage look for any existing faults or defects – and if there are any, they must be fixed before the property can be handed over or given a warranty.
In Conclusion
New home inspections are a vital part of the building process and can ensure that your new property is safe, secure and built to the highest standards. It’s important to get an inspection for each stage of construction – as it will help you stay on top of any potential issues before they become bigger problems.
At Inspect East, we provide new home inspections to ensure that all new homes in Melbourne meet the required industry standards. Our qualified building inspectors will thoroughly inspect both completed and partially completed buildings – ensuring that they are safe, secure and up to scratch.
Contact us today for your New Home Inspection.