In this inspection
The purpose
Review the enclosed building.
At lock-up, the roof, external walls, windows and doors are generally in place. This is an opportunity to assess visible enclosure details before internal finishes progress.
Check the transition to an enclosed building
At lock-up, the roof, external walls, doors and windows are coming together as an enclosure. Construction programmes differ, so the inspection scope should reflect the work actually completed. This is also a useful point to identify visible issues before internal finishes progress.
What a lock-up inspection covers
- Accessible external enclosure elements
- Windows, external doors and visible installation details
- Visible damage and unfinished work
- Accessible weatherproofing junctions and related details
Plan ahead
When to book your lock-up inspection
Ask the builder to confirm the lock-up stage and what work will be complete on the inspection date.
Before the visit
Preparing for a lock-up inspection
- 01
Confirm which enclosure elements are installed.
- 02
Provide previous stage reports for any requested follow-up.
- 03
Tell us what work is due to be covered or completed next.
Your inspection report
A clear list of observed items to discuss with the builder before the next trade starts.
Stage names can vary between contracts. The ACT Government’s explanation of building contracts includes lock-up and practical completion terminology. Confirm the actual work on site when booking.
Standalone stage inspection: $497 + GST. Subsequent package inspection: $397 + GST. View pricing & conditions.
The inspection is visual and limited to the agreed scope and areas that are safe and reasonably accessible. We confirm the scope and any relevant access arrangements before attendance.
A common question
Is lock-up the same as pre-lining?
They are different inspection points, although timing can overlap. Lock-up concerns the agreed enclosure work; pre-lining focuses on accessible work before internal walls and ceilings conceal it.
Explore the inspection stages
Confirm what “lock-up” includes on your build
A builder may reach lock-up with a temporary front door or some external items still outstanding. Ask for a list of completed and unfinished work before booking, including the garage door, windows and external cladding. This helps us choose a useful inspection date rather than relying on the stage name alone.
If insulation or plasterboard is scheduled soon afterwards, tell us. We can discuss whether a separate pre-lining inspection is needed while the framing and services remain visible.
A clear next step
Let’s take a
closer look.
Tell us about your property and what you need to know. We’ll help you arrange the right inspection.
info@canberrabuildinginspections.com
Canberra · Queanbeyan · Googong
Bungendore · Yass & surrounding areas