What does a building inspector look for?

A building inspector looks for structural defects, moisture and water damage, roof and gutter condition, subfloor issues, cracking in walls and ceilings, faulty drainage, unsafe balustrades and handrails, and any visible safety hazards throughout the property. The inspection is carried out in line with Australian Standard AS 4349.1.

What do building inspectors look for?

Building inspectors look for anything that affects the structural integrity, safety, or liveability of a property. This includes foundation movement, rising damp, roof damage, termite activity, illegal or unapproved building works, plumbing and drainage issues, and defective materials or workmanship.

What does a building inspection cover?

A building inspection covers the interior and exterior of the property including walls, floors, ceilings, roof cavity, subfloor, drainage, windows, doors, stairs, balconies, garage, and outbuildings. A combined building and pest inspection also includes a full termite and timber pest assessment.

How much for building and pest inspection?

The cost of a building and pest inspection in Australia typically ranges from $400 to $800 depending on the size, type, and location of the property. BAL Building Inspections offers transparent fixed pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a fast quote.

What does a building surveyor do?

A building surveyor assesses whether a building complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and local council regulations. They issue building permits, approve construction plans, conduct stage inspections during construction, and issue occupancy certificates. They are different from a building inspector, who focuses on the physical condition of an existing property.

What do building surveyors do?

Building surveyors ensure that construction and renovation projects meet legal building codes and safety standards. They review plans before work begins, carry out mandatory inspections during construction stages, and sign off on completed buildings. If you need a pre purchase inspection or defect assessment, a building inspector like BAL Building Inspections is who you need.

How long does a building inspection take?

Most building inspections take between 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the size and condition of the property. Larger homes or properties with significant defects may take longer.

When will I receive my inspection report?

BAL Building Inspections delivers reports within 24 hours of the inspection, often the same day. Reports are detailed, written in plain English, and include photos of all identified defects.

Do I need a building inspection on a new home?

Yes. New homes can still have defects in workmanship, materials, or compliance with Australian Standards. A pre-handover or new home inspection ensures your builder has met all requirements before you take possession of the property.

What is the difference between a building inspection and a pest inspection?

A building inspection assesses the structural condition of the property, while a pest inspection specifically looks for termite activity, timber pest damage, and conducive conditions. A combined building and pest inspection covers both in a single visit and is the most recommended option for home buyers.

Handover Building Inspections

Handover Inspection (PCI) for New Homes

A Handover building Inspections, also known as a Practical Completion Inspection (PCI), is the final and most important stage before you take possession of your newly built home. Our team of Fully Qualified Building Inspectors conducts detailed, independent PCI inspections across Melbourne to ensure your home is completed to the correct standard, free from major defects, and compliant with the National Construction Code (NCC).

Builders often conduct their own internal checks, but an independent PCI ensures nothing is overlooked. A professional building handover inspection protects you from costly post‑settlement repairs, disputes, and non‑compliant workmanship.

Whether you’re preparing for settlement, responding to an inspection notice, or simply want peace of mind before moving in, our PCI service provides the clarity and confidence you need.

REGISTERED AND EXPERIENCED BUILDING INSPECTOR fOR HANDOVER INSPECTION

Why a Handover Building Inspection Is Essential

Many new homes contain defects that are not immediately visible to homeowners. A PCI inspection helps identify:

Incomplete or poor‑quality workmanship
Structural defects and movement
Waterproofing failures
Non‑compliant finishes
Safety hazards
Items missing from your contract
Issues that may affect your Certificate of Final Inspection
Defects that could void warranties if not addressed early

A PCI inspection ensures your home is delivered to the standard you paid for — before you hand over the final payment.

🧱 What Our Handover Inspection Includes

Our PCI inspection follows a detailed final home inspection checklist and building inspection checklist, covering all internal and external areas of your new home.

Internal Areas

Walls, ceilings, floors
Plaster quality and paint finish
Skirting, architraves, trims
Doors, windows, locks, hardware
Cabinetry, benchtops, shelving
Tiling, grout, silicone
Waterproofing compliance
Stairs, balustrades, handrails

External Areas

Cladding, brickwork, render
Roofing, gutters, downpipes
Fascia, eaves, flashing
Driveways, paths, drainage
Landscaping and site levels
Decks, verandahs, balconies

Services & Fixtures

Plumbing fixtures (visual)
Electrical fittings (visual)
Appliances (visual)
Ventilation and insulation
Heating and cooling outlets

Compliance & Safety

NCC compliance
Contractual inclusions
Safety hazards
Outstanding inspection notice items
Items affecting your Certificate of Final Inspection

Your PCI Inspection Report

You receive a detailed, photo‑rich handover inspection report that includes:

Major defects
Minor defects
Incomplete works
Safety hazards
Non‑compliant items
Contractual omissions
Builder rectification requirements
Notes for your final inspection before settlement
Recommendations for warranty protection

Our reports are written in clear, easy‑to‑understand language and are accepted by builders, warranty insurers, and councils.

🏡 Who This Service Is For

New home buyers preparing for settlement
Clients needing an independent handover inspection
Owners requiring a Certificate of Final Inspection
Buyers wanting a new house inspector
Homeowners concerned about workmanship quality
Anyone wanting a professional inspection before moving in

🛠 Why Choose Us

Qualified Building Inspectors

Your PCI is conducted by qualified professionals with deep knowledge of the NCC, Australian Standards, and construction tolerances.

Independent & Unbiased

We work solely for the homeowner — never for builders.

Detailed, Accurate Reporting

Our reports include photos, defect descriptions, and clear rectification requirements.

Fast Turnaround

Ideal for tight settlement deadlines.

Melbourne‑Wide Coverage

We service all suburbs, including Pakenham, Berwick, Clyde, Cranbourne, Ringwood, Doncaster, and surrounding areas.

Ensure your new home is completed to the highest standard before settlement. Book your Handover Inspection (PCI) with our Registered Building Inspectors today.

When buying a property, a professional building and pest inspection can help you understand the true condition of the home before you commit. These inspections may identify visible structural concerns, moisture issues, roof defects, and signs of termite activity that are not always obvious during an open inspection. For buyers who want a broader overview of why this step matters, you can also read CommBank’s Guide To Building And Pest Inspections.