New Home Building Stage Checklist

Catch defects at every critical stage before they're locked behind linings and finishes

Free Interactive Tool For New Home Buyers

Interactive Stage-by-Stage Defect Checklist

Select your current build stage and work through each check. Document what you observe — then book an independent inspector before the stage is signed off.

Slab / Footings

0 / 4 items checked

Slab surface level within tolerance (±10mm)High Priority

Use a long spirit level across the slab. Significant high or low points indicate incorrect screeding which affects wall plumb and flooring.

No structural cracking in slab (hairlines under 0.3mm are normal)High Priority

Fine shrinkage cracks under 0.3mm wide are normal during curing. Wider cracks, especially diagonal ones, may indicate inadequate reinforcement or reactive soil movement.

Slab edges consistent depth and formwork removed cleanly

Honey-combed concrete at the slab edge (visible aggregate voids) indicates poor placement and reduces structural capacity.

All service penetrations (plumbing, conduit) correctly positionedHigh Priority

Verify plumbing stubs match the hydraulic drawing positions before the slab is poured. Moving pipes after concrete is set is extremely costly.

Book Your Independent Stage Inspection

An independent licensed inspector verifies compliance against engineering drawings and the National Construction Code — giving you documented evidence before defects are permanently concealed.

Book Stage Inspection →Call Inspector: 0409 438 365

Note: This checklist helps you observe obvious visual items. An independent licensed building inspector uses engineering expertise, drawings comparison and measuring equipment to identify defects invisible to untrained observers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need independent stage inspections if my builder has a supervisor?

Yes. A builder's site supervisor works for the builder, not for you. An independent inspector works solely in your interest and has no commercial incentive to pass substandard work.

Which construction stage is most important to inspect?

All stages matter, but the frame stage is considered most critical — defects in the structural frame are covered by wall linings and cannot be inspected once the lock-up stage is complete.

How do I arrange a stage inspection with PrimeCheck?

Contact us 3–5 days before your builder is expected to reach each stage milestone. We'll schedule around the build progress and provide a detailed photo-rich report within 24 hours.