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What are the most common fixing-stage defects?

Plaster defects (dents, dings, uneven surfaces, visible joins, screw pops) are the most common. Other common issues include: tile lipping (one tile higher than adjacent), cabinet misalignment, door operation issues, paint defects (uneven coverage, drips), and wrong tapware or appliances. Check everything carefully — defects are easier to fix during the fixing stage than after handover.

Should I hire an inspector for the fixing stage?

The fixing stage is less critical than the frame stage (structural issues are unlikely), but a private inspector can still identify defects you might miss. If you're not confident in identifying defects (plaster, tiling, cabinetry), consider hiring an inspector. Alternatively, do a thorough self-inspection using our checklist. The practical completion inspection is the most important final check.

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Building Process & Construction Stages

Fixing Stage: What to Check, Common Issues & How to Inspect

Plaster, cornice, doors, cabinetry, tiling, tapware — what to inspect at the fixing stage.

5 min read·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated July 2026

Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.

Key Takeaways

The fixing stage is the longest stage — it includes most of the internal fitout
Check plaster, cornice, skirting, doors, cabinetry, tiling, tapware and fittings
Plaster defects (dents, uneven surfaces, joins) are common and should be fixed before painting
Cabinetry should be checked for alignment, operation and damage
Tile issues (lipping, cracking, grout) are easier to fix now than after handover

The fixing stage is the longest construction stage — it includes insulation, plaster, cornice, skirting, internal doors, cabinetry, tiling, tapware, appliances, lighting and painting. This is where most defects occur, so a thorough inspection is essential. Understanding what to check helps you catch issues while they're still easy to fix.

What to Check

Plaster — check for dents, dings, uneven surfaces, visible joins, screw pops, cracking
Cornice — check for neat installation, consistent joints, no gaps
Skirting and architraves — check for neat installation, no gaps, no damage
Internal doors — check alignment, operation, hardware, scratching
Cabinetry — check door/drawer alignment, operation, handles, scratching, damage
Tiling — check for lipping (one tile higher than adjacent), cracking, grout consistency, alignment
Waterproofing — (if visible) check waterproofing in wet areas (bathrooms, laundry)
Tapware — check installation, operation, correct model
Vanities, toilets, baths, showers — check installation, operation, no damage
Appliances — check oven, cooktop, rangehood are installed and undamaged
Lighting — check light fittings are installed and operating
Power points and switches — check installation and operation
Paint — check coverage, evenness, drips, splashes, correct colours
Flooring — check timber for scratches/gaps; check carpet for seams and stretching

Watch Out

Plaster defects are the most common fixing-stage issue. Check plaster carefully — run your hand along walls and ceilings to feel for unevenness. Look along walls at an angle to see dents and uneven surfaces. Plaster defects are much easier to fix before painting than after. If you find significant plaster issues, raise them before the painter arrives.

Common Fixing-Stage Issues

Plaster defects — dents, dings, uneven surfaces, visible joins, screw pops
Cornice gaps — gaps between cornice and wall/ceiling; inconsistent joints
Door issues — doors not aligned, not operating smoothly, scratching, wrong hardware
Cabinetry issues — misaligned doors/drawers, damaged surfaces, wrong handles, missing soft-close
Tile issues — lipping (one tile higher than adjacent), cracking, inconsistent grout, misalignment
Paint defects — uneven coverage, drips, splashes, wrong colours, roller marks
Tapware issues — wrong model, incorrect installation, leaking
Appliance issues — wrong model, damage, incorrect installation
Flooring issues — scratches (timber), gaps, carpet seams, lifting (tiles)

What to Document

Photos of every room (all walls and ceilings)
Photos of cabinetry (kitchen, bathrooms, laundry)
Photos of tiling (bathrooms, laundry, kitchen)
Photos of any defects with a ruler or coin for scale
Notes on issues, locations and what needs fixing
If hiring an inspector — their report is your documentation

Questions to Ask Your Builder

Is the plaster smooth and even — any dents, dings or visible joins?
Are cabinets aligned, operating correctly and undamaged?
Are tiles laid correctly — no lipping, cracking or grout issues?
Is the paint coverage even, with the correct colours and no drips or splashes?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not checking plaster carefully before painting — defects are easier to fix pre-paint
Overlooking tile lipping and grout issues — harder to fix after handover
Not verifying cabinetry alignment and operation — misaligned doors are a common defect
Missing paint defects — uneven coverage, drips and wrong colours are frequent

Builder Tips

Check plaster by running your hand along walls and looking along surfaces at an angle
Raise plaster defects before the painter arrives — much easier to fix pre-paint
Check tile lipping (over 2mm is a defect) and grout consistency in all wet areas
Verify cabinetry doors and drawers are aligned, operate smoothly, and have soft-close if specified

Practical Completion Guide

The final inspection — the most comprehensive check.

Read the Guide