How long does the fix-out stage take?

Typically 3-6 weeks for a standard new home in Australia, depending on size and complexity. Custom homes with detailed cabinetry, complex tile work or premium fixtures take longer. Delays at this stage are common because it's where the most trades overlap and any back-orders on hardware, tapware or appliances can stall progress.

What should I check during fix-out?

Walk the site weekly. Confirm: doors swing freely and close, skirtings and architraves are mitred cleanly, no scuffs in fresh paint, tapware matches your selections, power points are positioned correctly, tile grout is even, and cabinetry has no chips. It's easier to get defects fixed now than after handover.

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Fixing Out

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By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: 1 March 2026 · How we research

Fixing Out explained in detail

The process of installing or attaching internal fittings to a home after the plastering/lining stage. This includes installing doors, architraves, skirting boards, cabinetry, tapware, power points, and other fixtures. Also known as 'fit-out' or 'second fix'.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about fixing out

Fixing out (also called fit-out or second fix) is the stage after plastering. Carpenters install doors, architraves, skirting boards and shelving. Plumbers install tapware, toilets and bath outlets. Electricians install power points, switches, fans and light fittings. Cabinetmakers install kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. By the end, your home looks finished.

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Adelaide Build Cost Report 2026

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Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

National Construction Code (NCC)

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Australian Standards (AS / AS-NZS)

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

Housing Industry Association (HIA)

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia (MBA)

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

By state & territory

South AustraliaSA

Consumer and Business Services (CBS)

VictoriaVIC

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

New South WalesNSW

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QueenslandQLD

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)

Western AustraliaWA

Building and Energy (within Dept of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)

TasmaniaTAS

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Australian Capital TerritoryACT

Access Canberra (Construction Occupations Registrar)

Northern TerritoryNT

Building Practitioners Board / NT Worksafe (Building)

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.