Building a new property is an exciting milestone, but before you collect the keys, it’s important to make sure everything is completed to the highest standard. A practical completion inspection or building handover inspection provides a final check of your newly built home or commercial space, ensuring that all workmanship, materials, and finishes meet Australian building standards and match what was promised in your contract.
At Hunter Valley Pest and Building Inspections, we specialise in thorough and independent inspections across Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Branxton, Greta, and surrounding areas. Our experienced inspectors identify defects, incomplete work, and potential issues, giving you the opportunity to raise concerns with your builder before settlement.
Why a PCI or Building Handover Inspection is Essential
Your builder may have finished construction, but overlooked defects, poor workmanship, and small mistakes are common in new builds. A practical completion inspection helps ensure that you are receiving the quality you paid for before signing off on the final payment or taking possession of the property.
Spotting defects before moving in can prevent expensive repairs later. Minor issues like paint imperfections or faulty fittings may not seem serious, but larger problems such as poor drainage, misaligned doors, or structural cracks can cause significant costs if left unaddressed. An inspection allows these problems to be documented and fixed before handover.
A newly built property must comply with Australian building codes and contract specifications. The inspection ensures that all work meets the required standards, reducing the risk of dealing with non-compliant electrical wiring, faulty plumbing, or poor waterproofing. Once final payment is made and you move in, getting a builder to rectify defects can become difficult. A pre-settlement inspection ensures that all issues are addressed at no extra cost.
What We Check in a PCI or Building Handover Inspection
Our inspection covers every aspect of the structure, workmanship, and functionality of your new home or commercial building.
Interior and finishing quality
we check walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, dents, or uneven surfaces. Doors and windows are tested for smooth operation and alignment. Cabinetry, joinery, paintwork, and tiling are examined for defects such as chips, streaks, or poor installation.
Structural and safety checks
A detailed inspection of the roof and gutters for leaks, sagging, or incomplete work. External walls and foundations are checked for cracks, movement, or low-quality finishes. Plumbing and electrical systems are reviewed to ensure compliance with safety standards, while drainage and waterproofing are assessed to identify areas prone to flooding or water damage.
Functionality and fixtures
We review to confirm that power points, lights, and appliances are installed correctly and operational. Taps, toilets, and water pressure are checked for leaks or plumbing defects. Doors, locks, and handles are tested for security and proper function, while ventilation and insulation are reviewed for adequate airflow and energy efficiency.
After completing the inspection, we provide a detailed report with high-resolution images and recommendations to help you resolve any issues with your builder before settlement.
When Should You Book a PCI Inspection?
The best time to schedule a practical completion inspection or building handover inspection is when your builder notifies you that the property is ready for handover. This ensures that any defects or incomplete work are identified before you make the final payment or sign settlement documents.
An inspection should also be completed before moving in. Once you take full possession, it can be more difficult to have defects rectified by the builder. Identifying issues early ensures that they are fixed at no extra cost, saving you time, stress, and unexpected expenses.
What Happens if We Find Issues?
Defects in a new build are common but finding them before settlement allows you to have them fixed without added costs. If we uncover any issues, we provide a detailed and independent report that helps you communicate concerns with your builder.
The report includes a list of defects categorised by severity, along with photographic evidence for easy reference. Compliance checks are also conducted to confirm that the property meets Australian building standards. With this information, you can negotiate repairs before finalising the contract, ensuring that your home or commercial property meets the expected quality.
Why Choose Us for Your PCI or Building Handover Inspection?
At Hunter Valley Pest and Building Inspections, we help homeowners and investors avoid costly surprises by providing detailed and unbiased assessments of new builds.
- Reports are delivered within 24 hours for fast turnaround
- We use advanced tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect hidden issues
- Our assessments are independent and have no ties to builders
- Reports are clear, detailed, and include high-resolution photos with expert recommendations
- Our team has extensive knowledge of Hunter Valley’s building conditions
We make the inspection process straightforward and stress-free, giving you confidence that your new property is built to the highest standard.
Book Your PCI or Building Handover Inspection in Hunter Valley
Before moving in, ensure that your new home or commercial property is free from defects and built to last. A practical completion inspection or building handover inspection gives you the opportunity to have issues corrected before settlement, ensuring that you get exactly what you paid for.
Call us today on 0488 885 203 or Order an Inspection online for a fast, professional service. Protect your investment in Hunter Valley with us.