A practical completion inspection helps you document the condition of your new home as construction approaches handover. An independent inspection gives you a photographic record of visible defects and incomplete work to discuss with the builder.
What is practical completion?
The QBCC’s practical completion guidance explains checking the completed work and recording minor defects or omissions. Practical completion can include minor outstanding items; it does not necessarily mean every item is already rectified.
Your building contract matters. An independent inspection report does not automatically entitle you to withhold final payment. Obtain advice about the particular contract if completion or payment is disputed.
PCI, handover and pre-settlement: what is the difference?
PCI and pre-handover commonly describe a completed-home workmanship check. Pre-settlement can describe a similar inspection of a new apartment or a different final check under a sale contract. Confirm the property, purpose and agreed scope rather than relying on the label.
| Visit | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Practical completion / handover | When the home is ready, builder access and the scope of visible workmanship checks. |
| New-build pre-settlement | Developer access, inspection time, included areas and the relevant purchase-contract arrangements. |
| Follow-up after repairs | Which reported items will be checked, whether repairs are ready, and the separate visit price. |
Two different labels do not automatically mean two inspections are required. A further visit depends on the work and purpose. Ask us to confirm what your booking covers.
What can GoInspect check?
The standard handover inspection covers visible and safely accessible work within the agreed scope. Examples include paint and plaster finishes, visible tile and cabinetry damage, accessible door and window operation, loose fittings and incomplete finishing work.
See examples of defects we identify. GoInspect’s standard inspection does not test appliances, certify electrical safety or establish the condition of concealed waterproofing and framing. Additional services should be discussed before booking.
How should you prepare?
- Ask the builder when the home will be ready for inspection.
- Arrange access and provide the site contact’s details.
- Provide relevant plans, specifications or concerns where available.
- Allow time to read the report and discuss findings with the builder.
- Keep a written record of outstanding items and agreed responses.
Use our room-by-room handover checklist to organise your own observations.
What does the report provide?
A useful report identifies the issue, its location and a photograph. GoInspect uses concise descriptions and identifies the relevant trade where appropriate, so the builder and subcontractors can locate work requiring attention.
For example, the anonymised GoInspect sample report records a sliding door binding on its bottom track. That identifies an observed operational issue without guessing its concealed cause. Read the sliding-door example.
What happens after the inspection?
Send the report to the builder, record their response and keep track of agreed rectification. A re-inspection can check reported repairs within the agreed scope and identify new visible issues where applicable. It does not certify every concealed part of the home.
How do complaint and warranty deadlines work?
Contractual defect arrangements, QBCC rectification processes and Queensland Home Warranty Scheme claims have different conditions and time limits. Do not rely on a general three-year period for non-structural defects.
Notify the builder promptly in writing and consult the QBCC’s current defective-work guidance for the relevant process. Seek advice early if the correct pathway or deadline is unclear.
Get a current quote
Pricing depends on the property, service, size, location and selected extras. Get an instant inspection quote or read our booking and inspection FAQs.