When people invest in a newly built home, they often assume the property is in perfect condition. After all, the house is brand new — constructed to modern standards and free from wear and tear. However, just because a home is new doesn’t mean it’s flawless. In fact, new construction homes can sometimes have more defects than older ones, due to rushed work, missed details, or communication breakdowns between contractors.
This is why a professional new construction home inspection is essential — even for brand-new properties. In Adelaide, where construction is booming and timelines are tight, a detailed inspection by a qualified expert ensures your dream home is structurally sound, safe, and built to last.
If you’re currently building a home or preparing for handover, here’s why a new construction home inspection should be a top priority.
What Is a New Construction Home Inspection?
A new construction home inspection is a detailed, independent assessment of a newly built property. Unlike a standard pre-purchase inspection on an existing home, a new build inspection focuses on the quality and compliance of work completed during construction. It can be carried out at different stages of the build, including:
- Pre-slab (before the foundation is poured)
- Frame stage (before walls and roofing go up)
- Lock-up stage (after external doors and windows are installed)
- Handover/PCI (Practical Completion Inspection — before you take possession of the property)
Each stage plays a crucial role in identifying construction defects early, so they can be corrected before the build progresses.
Why You Can’t Rely on Builders Alone
While most builders in Adelaide aim to deliver quality workmanship, mistakes and oversights do happen — especially when subcontractors are managing multiple jobs under tight deadlines. Supervisors may only conduct quick walk-throughs, leaving potential problems undetected.
A licensed independent inspector offers an impartial, expert eye. Their role is to ensure that:
- The construction complies with Australian Building Codes and Standards
- Workmanship meets industry best practices
- Materials used are appropriate and properly installed
- Defects are recorded and communicated with a clear, formal report
By having an inspector on your side, you’re not relying solely on the builder to sign off on their own work.
Common Issues Found in New Builds
It’s a common misconception that issues only arise in older homes. In reality, new construction properties can suffer from a wide range of problems — many of which are invisible to the untrained eye. At One Stop Inspections, some of the most frequent issues we uncover in Adelaide’s new builds include:
- Uneven or cracked concrete slabs
- Poorly installed insulation or roofing
- Leaking plumbing or inadequate drainage
- Misaligned walls or framing errors
- Faulty waterproofing in bathrooms and wet areas
- Incomplete or incorrect electrical fittings
- Gaps in window and door seals
These issues, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant repair costs, safety hazards, or structural damage — sometimes just months after moving in.
The Cost of Skipping an Inspection
Some buyers hesitate to book an inspection, thinking it’s an unnecessary expense. But consider this: fixing major structural or waterproofing defects after settlement could cost thousands — far more than a professional inspection would have.
In South Australia, the cost of a building inspection typically ranges from $400 to $800 depending on the stage and size of the property. Compare that with the average cost of rectifying poor drainage or fixing a leaky roof — and it becomes clear that an inspection is a wise investment.
An inspection gives you leverage. If issues are detected before handover, you can request that your builder addresses them before you sign off. Once you’ve settled, it’s much harder — and more expensive — to have faults corrected.
When Should You Book Your Inspection?
The ideal time to engage a building inspector is before each major stage of construction. This allows any faults to be corrected before they are hidden behind further construction work. For example, it’s much easier to fix a framing issue before plasterboard is installed than after.
Most homeowners in Adelaide choose to conduct at least two inspections:
- A frame stage inspection
- A handover (PCI) inspection
This combination ensures the build has integrity from the inside out and that all finishes and fittings are up to standard before final payment is made.
At One Stop Inspections, we’re flexible in working around your builder’s schedule. We can also communicate directly with your site supervisor to ensure access and timing are seamless.
What You’ll Receive from One Stop Inspections
When you book a new construction home inspection with us, you receive:
- A comprehensive, easy-to-read digital report within 24 hours
- Photographs highlighting each defect or concern
- Recommendations for rectification
- Independent advice you can trust
We pride ourselves on honest, clear communication and our commitment to protecting your investment. Our inspectors are highly qualified, experienced in local Adelaide construction standards, and fully insured for your peace of mind.
Our goal is simple: to help you move into your new home with complete confidence.
Peace of Mind You Can Build On
Building a new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. With so much at stake, it’s worth taking the extra step to ensure the build is completed to a high standard. A new construction home inspection empowers you with knowledge, helps prevent costly repairs, and gives you the peace of mind that your new property is safe, durable, and well-built.
Whether you’re at the start of your building journey or approaching handover, One Stop Inspections is here to help.
