Construction stage inspections are critical milestones in every residential build in Australia. These typically include the base stage, framing stage, lock-up stage, fixing stage, and the final stage (also known as PCI or practical completion inspection). If you’re building a new home, you’ve likely encountered these terms, each correlating with a key progress claim under most HIA or Master Builders contracts.
What makes these stages so important is that each one marks a significant structural or finish-related checkpoint. Independent inspections during these stages can identify defects early, before they become costly or concealed by subsequent works.
The base stage, also known as the foundation stage, involves the preparation and construction of the home’s structural base. This includes excavation, reinforcement, formwork, and service penetrations. It is one of the most critical stages, as it forms the foundation for the rest of the structure.
A base stage inspection, or pre-slab pour inspection, is a mandatory inspection under the Building Act 1993 (Vic), carried out by the building surveyor. However, having an independent inspector like Altez Building Inspections adds an extra layer of quality assurance. We check that the reinforcement detailing, concrete depth, footings, slab edge thickening, membrane installation, and step-downs all conform to the structural engineer’s drawings and AS 2870. If defects or non-compliant work are found, we liaise with the builder to have them rectified before concrete is poured
The framing stage involves the installation of the structural frame of the building—typically timber or steel. This includes load-bearing walls, roof trusses, beams, lintels, bracing, and tie-downs. A properly constructed frame is vital for the long-term structural integrity of the home.
Our framing inspections are conducted with reference to the engineering design, AS 1684.2, and NCC Volume Two. We assess elements such as:
Our detailed reports help prevent structural failures, avoid future movement issues, and ensure compliance with the approved design documentation.
The lock-up stage refers to the point where the external shell of the building is complete. This includes the installation of external doors, windows, wall cladding, and roofing, making the property lockable and protected from the elements.
Our lock-up stage inspections focus on the building envelope. We check for:
Catchment drainage elements like non-compliant rainheads or overflows, which can cause future water damage, are also evaluated.
The fixing stage involves internal components like plasterboard linings, cabinetry, internal doors, skirting, architraves, and wet area fit-outs. By this stage, many defects from earlier stages may become hidden, making this a critical inspection point.
At Altez, we check for:
Our inspectors ensure that workmanship aligns with AS 2589 for plasterboard installation, and that internal finishes are up to standard.
The final stage, often referred to as the Practical Completion Inspection (PCI), is the most important stage from a handover perspective. This is when the builder claims the work is complete and ready for final payment. However, many homes at PCI still contain defects, omissions, or non-compliances.
Altez provides comprehensive PCI inspections that assess:
We also check that all defects are itemised according to AS 4349.0, ensuring a fair and documented handover. If items are incomplete or defective, they are recorded in the report, which can be used as formal evidence for dispute resolution or negotiation prior to final settlement.
Altez Building Inspections has earned a strong reputation across Victoria as a trusted, independent provider of new home stage inspections. Our qualified inspectors apply a rigorous, standards-based methodology to ensure building compliance, high-quality workmanship, and early defect detection at every key stage of the construction process.
We operate independently of builders and surveyors, offering homeowners confidence and impartiality throughout their build journey. As one of the most widely recognised and respected inspection companies in Victoria, we have established longstanding relationships with major builders such as Henley, Metricon, Porter Davis, and Simonds, and are consistently acknowledged by construction professionals for our technical knowledge and professional communication.
Over the years, Altez has developed a streamlined and respectful approach to defect reporting. While many building companies are known to resist third-party inspection findings due to differing opinions, our team has successfully overcome these barriers. We are highly experienced in engaging constructively with site supervisors, project managers, and tradespeople to ensure defects are clearly communicated, understood, and rectified without delay.
Thanks to our proven track record and reputation for fairness and accuracy, our reports are taken seriously on-site. We help facilitate timely rectifications, reduce disputes, and support homeowners in protecting the quality and compliance of their new homes, every step of the way.
