The Building Process
What does a building inspector actually check?
Short answer
A private building inspector checks that construction complies with the approved plans, the National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and any state-specific rules (Development Act in SA). Typical inspection points: pre-slab (soil, footings, formwork), frame (structural), pre-plaster (waterproofing, insulation, services rough-in), and final (defects list). Cost: $600-$1,200 per inspection in Adelaide.
The longer answer
Your builder-nominated surveyor is required to sign off at certain stages, but they're paid by the builder. Appointing an independent private inspector adds a second set of eyes on quality and gives you leverage on defect claims.
The pre-handover inspection is the most important. Once you sign the handover certificate, you shift from a build-defects regime to a warranty-defects regime, which is more restrictive. Never skip the pre-handover walk-through.
In this episode, we explain the role of a building surveyor in your new home build, when they get involved, and whether they truly operate independently. We also discuss if you can appoint your own surveyor, why most buyers don’t, and the potential benefits of making your own choice.
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