For many homeowners and property investors, building a home is one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives. As the construction journey nears its end, one critical milestone stands out — practical completion. In Perth, this phase is not just about picking up the keys and moving in. It’s the final checkpoint to ensure your dream home meets expectations, building codes, and quality standards.
At Master Building Inspectors, we specialize in detailed, unbiased building inspections at every stage — with a strong focus on practical completion in Perth. Our expert team ensures that what you’ve been promised is exactly what you receive.
What is Practical Completion?
Practical completion (also referred to as handover or final inspection) is the stage where the builder declares that construction is finished and the home is ready for inspection by the owner or their representative. It means the property is complete and suitable for occupancy — even if minor touch-ups or cleaning remain.
In Perth, this milestone has legal and financial significance. Once the builder issues a notice of practical completion, the final payment (as per your building contract) is usually due, and your warranties begin from this date.
But here’s the catch: what looks “complete” to the untrained eye may hide defects or substandard workmanship. That’s why engaging a qualified building inspector is crucial before signing off.
Why Are Building Inspections Essential at Practical Completion?
1. Uncover Hidden Defects
Even the best builders can miss things. Our building inspections cover everything — from poor plastering and tiling issues to electrical and plumbing faults. Some defects may not be obvious unless professionally evaluated.
2. Ensure Compliance with Building Codes
Australian construction standards are strict, and non-compliance can lead to major safety issues or expensive repairs. We ensure your home complies with local regulations, the National Construction Code (NCC), and approved building plans.
3. Protect Your Investment
A new home is a major investment. A thorough inspection before practical completion in Perth gives you leverage to have issues rectified before final payments are made or warranties begin.
4. Support Peace of Mind
There’s no worse feeling than discovering problems after moving in. Our job is to prevent that — offering detailed reports that cover structural, cosmetic, and functional elements.
What Does a Practical Completion Inspection Include?
At Master Building Inspectors, our practical completion inspection is one of the most detailed assessments we provide. Our reports are not just checklists — they’re professional, photographic, and compliant with industry standards.
Here’s what our inspectors cover:
Exterior Areas:
Roof cladding, gutters, and downpipes
Brickwork, rendering, and paintwork
Driveways, paths, and external drainage
Windows, doors, and seals
Garage and boundary fencing
Interior Finishes:
Walls, ceilings, skirting, and cornices
Paint quality and plaster finish
Flooring, tiles, and grout lines
Cabinetry installation and alignment
Fixtures, fittings, and hardware
Plumbing Electrical:
Functionality of taps, showers, and drains
Water pressure and hot water system
Power points, switches, and lighting
Compliance with electrical standards
Fixtures Systems:
Air conditioning and ventilation
Smoke alarms and exhaust fans
Insulation and waterproofing
Stairs and balustrades
Each issue is documented with photographs and referenced against building codes and manufacturer specifications.
What Makes Master Building Inspectors Different?
When it comes to building inspections, Perth homeowners trust Master Building Inspectors for a reason. We combine deep industry experience with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to transparent, client-focused service.
✅ Qualified Licensed Inspectors
All our inspectors are Registered Builders and qualified building surveyors. We know construction from the inside out.
✅ Fast Turnaround Reports
We know time is critical during the handover phase. Our team delivers same-day inspection reports, complete with actionable recommendations.
✅ Independent Unbiased
We work for you, not the builder. Our inspections are 100% independent, honest, and free from conflict of interest.
✅ Personalized Consultation
Need help understanding the report? Want guidance on next steps? Our team offers follow-up consultations to ensure you're confident and informed.
The Risk of Skipping a Practical Completion Inspection
Many homeowners in Perth assume that a newly built home doesn’t need a final inspection — after all, it’s brand new, right? Wrong.
Here’s what could go wrong if you skip this critical phase:
Small issues become big problems (e.g., water leaks, uneven floors)
Builders may deny responsibility post-handover
Repair costs become your burden, not the builder’s
Warranty claims can be delayed or denied due to lack of documented defects
Non-compliant work may pose safety risks
Don’t let assumptions cost you. Let Master Building Inspectors protect your investment with a professional inspection before you sign the completion certificate.
Real Stories from Real Clients in Perth
"We were excited to move into our new home, but we decided to hire Master Building Inspectors for peace of mind. Their report uncovered more than 15 defects, most of which we wouldn’t have noticed. The builder agreed to fix everything before handover!" – Linda T., Perth
"As a first-time homebuyer, I had no idea about practical completion. These guys explained the process, did a great inspection, and helped us avoid future headaches." – Mark Jenna, WA
"They spotted a waterproofing issue that could’ve cost thousands later. Highly recommend for anyone nearing practical completion in Perth." – David P., Fremantle
Other Building Inspections We Offer
While practical completion is a major service, Master Building Inspectors offers inspections throughout the construction lifecycle:
Pre-Purchase Building Inspections
Slab Stage Inspections
Frame Stage Inspections
Lock-Up/Pre-Plaster Inspections
PCI / Handover Inspections
Defect Liability Period Inspections
Owner-Builder Warranty Inspections
No matter the stage, our goal is to ensure quality, safety, and compliance.
When Should You Book a Practical Completion Inspection?
Ideally, you should book your inspection before the final walk-through with the builder. This gives you time to review our report, request rectifications, and ensure everything is addressed before final payments.
Many of our clients in Perth book the inspection within 3–5 days of receiving the notice of practical completion.
Need help with builder communication or clarification of contract terms? Our team can assist there too.
Final Thoughts
Practical completion in Perth is not just a formality — it’s your last line of defense before taking possession of your new home. With construction quality varying across builders, and compliance issues sometimes slipping through the cracks, a professional building inspection is not just recommended — it’s essential.
At Master Building Inspectors, we take pride in being Perth’s most trusted partner in building inspections. We empower you with the knowledge, evidence, and support needed to ensure your home is safe, sound, and truly complete.
Ready for Handover? Let’s Inspect First.
? Call us today 1300852496
? Visit our website https://www.masterbuildinginspectors.com.au/
? Servicing all Perth suburbs and surrounding areas
