In this inspection
The purpose
The details beneath a finished bathroom.
Waterproofing deserves a dedicated check before tiles conceal it. We inspect the visible membrane and accessible detailing at the agreed stage, recording observations you can discuss with your builder or waterproofer.
Review the visible membrane and its junctions
The pre-tiling stage provides access to details around wall-to-floor junctions, corners, drains and service penetrations. A visual inspection can record visible gaps, damage or details needing clarification. It does not establish every concealed layer or guarantee the future performance of the finished wet area.
What waterproofing inspections cover
- Visible membrane coverage and condition
- Accessible wall-to-floor junctions and corners
- Details around penetrations, drains and water stops
- Membrane terminations and other exposed detailing
- Visible falls where they can be assessed within the agreed scope
Why inspect before tiling?
A finished wet area conceals many of the details that contribute to the waterproofing system. Inspecting before the finishes are installed allows visible concerns around the membrane, junctions, drains and penetrations to be recorded while those details remain accessible.
Bathrooms, showers and laundries need appropriate moisture protection. The requirements depend on the building, wet-area layout and construction system. Where available, provide the product details and relevant plans so the inspection can be considered in that context.
If the room is already tiled and you are concerned about a leak, let us know when enquiring. That calls for a different scope from a pre-tiling waterproofing inspection.
Plan ahead
When to book waterproofing inspections
Book after the membrane has been applied and is ready to inspect, before tiles or other finishes are installed. Coordinate the timing with your builder and waterproofer.
Before the visit
Preparing for waterproofing inspections
- 01
Arrange the visit after the membrane is ready for inspection and before tiling.
- 02
Ask the builder for product information and relevant installation details.
- 03
Confirm safe access without walking on or disturbing uncured material.
Your inspection report
A photographic report of the accessible waterproofing work, observed defects and recommended next steps. Hidden layers, application thickness and curing history cannot be established from a visual inspection alone.
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
Does the inspection include a flood test?
A flood test is not automatically included in a visual inspection. Any testing needs to be agreed separately with regard to the system, curing requirements and site arrangements.
Explore the inspection stages
Coordinate the short window before tiling
Ask your builder when the membrane will be ready to inspect and when tiling is booked. Send the product name, installation details and a list of the wet areas to be checked. Tell us about bathrooms, laundries or other areas scheduled at different times so the visit covers the agreed work.
Leave the membrane undisturbed and arrange access with the builder. If a reported detail needs attention, keep the finding and the builder’s response together, and discuss whether a reinspection is needed before it is covered.
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