Practical Completion Inspections Perth

Building a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. As the build nears completion, you’ll want more than just a final walkthrough — you’ll want assurance. At Perth Master Building Inspectors, we specialise in structural building inspections Perth, with a focus on practical completion inspections (PCI) for new homes. Our goal is to give you peace of mind by checking that everything is built to standard before you hand over the final payment and move in.

What is a Practical Completion Inspection?

A Practical Completion Inspection – often called a PCI or handover inspection – is the final check of your new home before you take possession. It’s the moment when your builder says the home is ready. But “ready” doesn’t always mean “perfect”.

Our inspection reviews your build against the Building Code of Australia (BCA), relevant Australian Standards, your contract specifications and workmanship quality. We focus especially on structural items, major finishes, compliance and safety — in short, the key areas that matter. This is part of our structural building inspections Perth offering. Learn more about our inspection process and qualifications.

Why a PCI Matters for Your New Home

When you accept handover without a thorough inspection, you may end up with hidden defects, incomplete work or compliance issues — and once you’ve made final payment, your rights may be limited. A practical completion inspection gives you:

• Early detection of defects: identify workmanship issues, incomplete finishes or structural non-compliance.

• Leverage with the builder: with a clear independent report you’ll be in a stronger position to negotiate rectification before settlement.

• Warranty protection: many defects become harder to rectify once you take possession and your warranty period begins.

• Confidence for your move-in: you’ll step into your new home knowing it meets standards, not hoping it will.

In short: it’s about protecting your investment and peace of mind. That’s why we integrate it into our structural building inspections Perth range

What We Inspect in Your PCI

As part of our Perth practical completion inspections, we carry out a comprehensive review of all accessible areas, including structural elements, finishes and compliance. Key inspection areas include:

• Structural & Load-bearing Elements: Foundations, framing, beams, lintels, roof structure, sub-floor supports — ensuring your build meets structural requirements.

• Roof, Gutters & Drainage: Roof covering, flashing, valleys, downpipes, eaves, patios — verifying water management and durability.

• External Finishes: Brickwork, render, cladding, windows, doors, external taps, alfresco areas, paving.

• Interior Finishes & Hardware: Walls, ceilings, doors, windows, tiles, cabinets, bench tops, plumbing fixtures — checking alignment, fit & finish.

• Safety & Compliance: Balustrades, stairs, handrails, roof space access — making sure your home is safe and liveable.

• Documentation & Handover Readiness: We reference applicable BCA clauses and Australian Standards, delivering a report that’s useful for your builder, engineer or insurer.

Each inspection follows our structured process for structural building inspections Perth, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Our Process

Here’s how we manage your practical completion inspection:

1. Booking & Coordination — We schedule your inspection, liaise with builder, agent or site contact and ensure access to all required areas.

2. On-Site Inspection — Our registered builder visits your site at practical completion stage and conducts a full visual assessment of all major items and accessible structural elements.

3. Detailed Report — Within 24 hours (often sooner) you’ll receive a photo-illustrated, plain-English report. It highlights defects, assesses severity and provides recommended next steps.

4. Post-Inspection Support — We explain the findings, answer your questions and provide guidance on rectification, builder negotiation or warranty follow-up.

As part of our structural building inspections Perth service range, we make sure you’re handover ready.

Why Choose Perth Master Building Inspectors

When it comes to inspections for new homes in Perth, you want someone with expertise, local knowledge and independence. Here’s why we stand out:

• Registered Builders Only: Every inspection is carried out by a WA-registered builder with construction experience.

• Independent & Unbiased: We work for you, not the builder. Our loyalty is to your interests.

• Full Compliance: Our reports align with AS 4349.1 – Inspection of Buildings and reference relevant BCA and Australian Standards clauses.

• Fast Turnaround: Many PCI reports delivered within 24 hours — so you don’t delay settlement.

• Perth Focused: We know local soil types, climate impacts and building practices — essential for meaningful inspections in Perth.

With us, you’re not just ticking a box — you’re taking control of your handover

When to Book Your PCI Inspection

Schedule your practical completion inspection before you make your final payment or sign off settlement. Ideally, this occurs when the builder declares practical completion, but before you accept keys or move in. Because once you’ve moved in, your ability to have defects rectified can become limited. Adding it to your structural building inspections Perth chain ensures you’re doing the right thing at the right time. For ongoing builds, combine PCI with dilapidation reports for full property documentation.

FAQs

Q.Do I still need other inspections if I engage a PCI inspection?

A.Yes. A PCI does not replace earlier stage inspections (slab, frame, lock-up) or specific inspections like pest or waterproofing. It is the final stage inspection and complements these earlier checks.

Q.How long will the inspection take?

A.Most residential PCIs take 1-2 hours depending on size and complexity. Larger or multi-storey homes may take longer.

Q.Will I get a report with photos?

A.Yes. Your report will include photographs, explanation of defects, severity assessment and rectification recommendations.

Q.Can this report be used for settlement conditions?

A.Absolutely. We prepare the report to support settlement, builder negotiation or warranty claims — part of our structural building inspections Perth service.