In this inspection
The purpose
Before you accept the keys.
A practical completion inspection provides an independent assessment of accessible finished work before handover. We record visible defects, unfinished items and workmanship concerns in a report you can discuss with the builder.
What practical completion inspections cover
- Accessible internal and external finishes
- Doors, windows, cabinetry and visible fittings
- Wet-area finishes and visible sealing details
- Visible damage, incomplete work and workmanship concerns
- Photographs and locations of reported findings
Plan ahead
When to book
Book when the builder advises that the property is ready for practical completion, allowing time to review the findings before handover.
Before the visit
How to prepare
- 01
Confirm the home is ready for the agreed completion inspection.
- 02
Send your known concerns, earlier stage reports and any repair responses.
- 03
Allow time to read the report and discuss the findings before your handover arrangements.
Ask who will attend from the builder or developer and allow time for the inspection, rather than fitting it into a brief key collection.
For an apartment or townhouse, confirm access to your garage, storage area and any external space included in the booking. Shared areas may be unfinished or outside your lot; they need their own agreed scope. For several homes in one development, see bulk handover inspections.
Your inspection report
Your report records visible defects, damage and incomplete work, with photographs and room or location references. Use it to raise specific items with the builder and refer back to the findings when repairs are proposed.
Standard inspection: $547 + GST. View pricing & conditions. Fee may vary with the property and agreed scope.
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
Does the inspection determine final payment?
No. The inspection records the accessible building work; it does not decide contractual completion, payment obligations or whether every inclusion matches your contract. Discuss those decisions with your legal adviser. The ACT Government guide to building contracts explains practical completion and defects periods.
Explore the inspection stages
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