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Practical Completion Inspections. Embarking on the journey of building a new home is nothing short of exhilarating. There's nothing quite like watching your dream home come to life right before your very eyes. However, as your home nears completion and you eagerly await your final payment and keys, have you ever wondered what kind of home you'll be stepping into?
PCI REPORTS MINIMISE FINAL HANDOVER ISSUES
It's not uncommon for issues to arise after the final handover stage, which can quickly turn into a major headache when trying to resolve them with your Perth builder. All those little problems you didn't anticipate can add up, and it can be frustrating trying to get them fixed once you've paid the final balance on your account.
But fear not! You don't have to let your dream home turn into a nightmare. Let us put your mind at ease with our practical completion inspection. We'll thoroughly examine the build ensuring that everything is up to scratch before you receive the keys to your dream home. With us by your side, you can rest easy knowing that your new home is in tip-top shape.
THE PROCESS OF BOOKING A PRACTICAL COMPLETION
As the building process draws to an end, the builder will issue you with a date & time for a Practical Completion inspection, typically referred to as a PCI.
Generally, the practical completion inspection is the most critical inspection to be completed during the new home building process.
Client’s should be aware that practical completion does not necessarily mean that the building is completely finished.
Typically it is expected that the property is fit for occupation and the work has been completed as per the building contract.
The Home Building Contracts Act, Section 11 defines practical completion as when the home is ready for its intended purpose and all works completed excepting minor defects which do not prevent the property from being occupied.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION INSPECTION
Practical completion inspections should not occur if the outstanding items prevent the property from being inhabited (lived in).
Usually the builder will notify the client once PC is approaching and agree on a date and time. The builder will then provide a date of practical completion.
Depending upon the builder’s requirements, we either attend site to conduct the PCI several days prior to your meeting, or at the same time which is generally the preferred process for the site supervisors.
During the PCI, you, your builder's representative, and a Master Building Inspector will review the key construction elements and final finishes of your build. But what's in it for you? Well, having an independent building inspector acting as your advocate can bring a considerable amount of satisfaction. You can rest easy knowing that everything is in order and that your home is ready for handover - with any identified issues being resolved first, of course.
Building a new home is no small feat, and it's essential to ensure that everything has been completed to a high standard before you accept completion. That's where a PCI inspection in Perth comes in - it's the peace of mind you need to truly enjoy your new home.
ASSESSMENT OF THE NEW HOME
We conduct practical completion inspections whilst the supervisor carries out the site meeting with the client. This typically takes between 1 – 1.5 hours for a standard 4 x 2 home.
At the end of our inspection, a verbal assessment detailing general areas of concern is conducted between the clients, site supervisor and the inspector.
A written report detailing specific areas of non-compliance and substandard workmanship/defective building work issues is then emailed within 24 hours. The builder will then have 10 working days, from receiving the report to rectify the identified items.
Once the 10 days has transpired, the client will have a final handover with the supervisor prior to the final payment.
Practical completion inspections include an assessment of all works completed to ensure all structural and building materials have been installed within the allowable tolerances.
Blue tape will be places on all areas of concern during the inspection. This helps the supervisor to identify the defective areas and allows the relevant trades to rectify these issues.
The defects liability period starts once possession of the property has occurred. If the builder does not meet these obligations, then the WA Building Commission or the courts will act.
Perth Practical Completion Inspections
Please note, a PCI report is not an all-encompassing assessment of the property. It is highly recommended that New Construction staged inspections are conducted during the building process. Many client’s skip the structural inspections and elect for just a PCI.
Unfortunately once the build reaches completion, the structural elements are covered and it is unknown whether these items have been installed correctly.
Practical completion inspections are highly recommended!
BUILDING INSPECTIONS PERTH
CONTACT US TODAY WITH ALL YOUR BUILDING INSPECTION INQUIRIES
ITEMS ASSESSED DURING A PRACTICAL COMPLETION INSPECTION
The items we typically inspect during a new home practical completion inspection include:
- Roof Covering - ridge capping, hip capping, box gutters, flashings, tile/colourbond installation, gutters, downpipes, facia and eave installation.
- External areas - external walls, brickwork compliance, render installation, window & door installation, flyscreens, paintwork, cladding, portico, alfresco & taps.
- Internal areas - slab, internal walls, paintwork, window & door installation, ceilings and cornice, door & window hardware, tiles, taps, lights, cabinetry, floor coverings & plaster.
- Roof cavity - Insulation, sarking, roof frame & vents.
- Testing of all accessible windows & doors.
- Note all damage, chips, nicks and dents to window glass and frames, tiles, shower frames, mirrors, cabinetry, handles, benchtops, toilets & sinks.
PERTH'S NUMBER 1 BUILDING INSPECTION COMPANY
ABOUT YOUR MASTER BUILDING INSPECTOR
When it comes to the building inspection industry in Perth, there's one glaring fact you should know: it's completely unregulated. That's why it's absolutely crucial to ensure that the person inspecting your build has the necessary experience and qualifications to get the job done right.
Don't be fooled by companies claiming their inspectors are "registered". It's simply not true. There's no such thing as a registered building inspector in Perth. So, how can you be sure that your inspector is up to par?
We recommend doing your due diligence and thoroughly checking your inspector's credentials. Unfortunately, many so-called "registered building inspectors" have no actual building experience or qualifications. Instead, they come from accounting or management backgrounds, leaving them ill-equipped to properly assess your build. Don't take any chances with your investment - make sure you choose a qualified inspector with the right expertise to get the job done right.
Our Inspectors:
- All inspectors are qualified, registered builders, holding registration with the WA Building Commission.
- Fully insured. Every building inspectors holds Public liability & Professional Indemnity insurances underwritten by Lloyds of London.
- All inspectors come from trade backgrounds. They have been involved with the construction of residential & commercial builds for years!
- Every one of our inspectors has undertaken extensive training in the inspection and reporting process.
Benefits of a Thorough Practical Completion Inspection
One of the key benefits of a thorough Practical Completion Inspection is the peace of mind it provides for new homeowners. By identifying any issues or defects before handover, you can ensure that your builder addresses them promptly and to a high standard. This can save you time and money in the long run, as you won't have to deal with costly repairs or renovations after moving in.
Additionally, a detailed PCI report can serve as a valuable reference document in case any issues arise in the future. It provides a clear record of the condition of your new home at the time of handover, which can be useful for warranty claims or insurance purposes. By investing in a comprehensive Practical Completion Inspection, you are investing in the long-term quality and integrity of your new home.
