Seven Things to do Before Signing-Off on a New Build

Assuring everything is up to speed with the property can save you a lot of money and headaches down the line. 

1. Organise an inspection  

   With progress payments made over the course of construction, an inspection mid-way is vital to ensuring you aren’t paying for something that hasn’t been done or has been done incorrectly. 

2. Get a building inspection report  

   Ensuring a report from a licensed, qualified, and experienced inspector is a worthwhile investment, as they are trained to pick up on things that your eyes might have missed. 

3. Obtain all compliance certificates  

   Plumbing, electrical, builder, engineering; while this may seem straight forward, they are often missed in the sign-off process. 

4. Note down issues  

   From loose door handles to spotty paint, document everything you come across. If these are documented before payment and settlement, they’ll be sorted within the builder’s 12-month maintenance period. 

5. Retention payments  

   Usually done in commercial builds, retention payments hold strong benefits in residential builds, too. When a builder puts in a progress payment or evaluates the build, they should give five per cent of the total cost as a warranty. The five per cent is paid back to the builder in two parts (2.5 per cent at the end of the job and the remaining 2.5 per cent at the end of the 12-month maintenance period). This ensures that if any issues arise, the builder has reason to come back and rectify them, protecting the consumer. 

6. Compliances and warranties  

   Ensure compliances and warranties are registered and delivered. If an issue arises with an appliance (such as the oven, stove, or air conditioner) and you decide to submit a claim, it will be rejected if the appliance is not registered.  

7. Final documentation 

   Make sure all items are documented and agreed upon with the builder prior to the final payment. If you have further concerns, you can reference them with the Guide to Standards and Tolerances.  

   An occupancy permit does not necessarily mean the house is completed to standard. It’s necessary you check the property yourself and run through this list before signing off on a new build, making for a happier life and a happier wallet down the line.