When you’ve paid a hefty sum for a new build or renovation, you deserve quality workmanship.
At the end of what can be a lengthy renovation project it can be easy to fall into a she’ll be right or close enough is good enough attitude when the end is in sight. It’s really important that you remain patient as the final handover is your final chance to address any work that’s not up to standard, or raise any tasks you believe have not been delivered per what’s been agreed upon in your construction contract.
Below are some tips and advice we’ve picked up over the last 30 years in the building industry as well as a practical list of things to check.
But first, what is a final handover?
The final handover is the very last step of your renovation or new home build, it’s where:
- You officially take ownership of the house
- You make your final payment to the builder
The builder will conduct a pre-handover inspection otherwise known as a ‘final inspection’ with yourself, this is your opportunity to raise any concerns regarding incomplete works, defects or any other issues. To be ready to do the final hand over you should have done the following:
- Had a practical completion inspection by a building surveyor
- Issued a certificate of occupancy
- Done an extensive pre-handover inspection citing your contract for agreed tasks and noting any defects to be rectified by your builder
- Had your builder fix any faults or issues that were picked up in your final inspection, as agreed in your notice of completion.
On handover day you’ll receive the following:
- Occupancy permit or the equivalent certificate from a building surveyor
- Warranty and instruction manuals for appliances and fixtures
- Documentation from any service providers
Fair Trading NSW have some useful advice and information on their website on the post renovation process. Additionally, if you haven’t started your build yet and haven’t locked in a builder they have some worthwhile info on entering in to a building contract.
Ok so here’s my tips and advice!
- Know your statutory rights; usually 13 weeks minor defect liability period (contract dependent), 2 year major non-structural defects and 6 years for major structural defects.
- Ensure all building work variations are accounted for, for both the builder and yourself.
- Print out a copy of your contract and variations and walk through the property noting any discrepancies, unsatisfactory work or incomplete work in detail. Mark any defects with some bright masking tape so trades can easily find them (you must inspect to guidelines 1500mm & 600mm).
- If in doubt put it on the list!
- Always email your builder a summary of your conversations so you have it in writing if needed
- Make sure you keep all your instruction manuals, warranty details etc. Creating a folder with all of this info is a great idea.
- Don’t be afraid to get professional advice from a licensed building inspector, that’s what we’re here for!
Make sure you check:
- Brickwork/coating finishes
- Surface drainage
- Roof finishes e.g. tile or metal sheeting, falls in guttering and defective flashings
- Balcony and waterproofing
- Falls to perimeter paths and driveways
- Retaining walls
- Interior wall/ceiling/tiling finishes
- Door and window serviceability
- Correct falls in wet area floor tiling
- Waterproofing
- Installation of insulation batts complete, including roof sheet blanket/sarking if tiles.
- Range-hood ducting connected and diverted to building exterior
- Sub-floor condition and correct termite management installation
- All debris/building waste are removed from site/sub-floor area
- Termite management/treatment labels are fixed in meter box; annual inspections thereafter are strongly recommended.
- Any temporary form work timbers that support suspended concrete patio’s or verandahs are removed. (Termite heaven)
- All compliance paperwork complete, stage and final occupancy certificates issued.
If you’re not comfortable doing this inspection we can help you out!
As an independent party, our building inspection ensures your new property or renovation meets the top standards of a licensed builder. This external and internal property inspection will identify any defects and/or incomplete finishes, so you can be certain your builder has completed the work properly before you pay the bill at final handover.
About Us
30 years of experience as a licensed builder (being on the “tools”), working on hundreds of projects spanning residential builds like new homes, renovations and extensions through to major commercial construction.
We are dedicated to customer service and have expert regional knowledge, particularly on Newcastle City Council and Lake Macquarie Council requirements. We are proud members of the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and always comply with the Australian Standard (AS) 4349.1 2007, so you can trust in our first-rate workmanship and thorough assessments.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch today!