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What's the difference between a defect and a maintenance issue?

A defect is a failure to meet the contract, plans, specifications or building code — the builder must rectify it at no cost during the defect liability period. A maintenance issue is normal wear and tear or homeowner responsibility (e.g. cleaning gutters, adjusting doors, replacing light globes). The line can blur — if in doubt, report it to the builder and let them assess.

How long is the structural warranty on a new home?

Structural warranties are mandated by state law. In most Australian states, the structural warranty period is 6–7 years. Non-structural defects are typically covered for 3–6 months (the defect liability period). Appliance and fixture warranties vary by manufacturer (typically 1–5 years). Check your contract for specific warranty terms.

What should I do if the builder won't fix a defect?

First, put the defect in writing to the builder with photos and a timeframe for rectification. If the builder doesn't respond or refuses, contact your state's building authority (e.g. QBCC in QLD, Fair Trading in NSW, BPC in Victoria) — they provide dispute resolution services. If the issue remains unresolved, you can take the matter to a tribunal (e.g. QCAT, NCAT, VCAT) or seek legal advice.

Can I move in before all defects are fixed?

You can, but it reduces your leverage. It's better to have defects fixed before handover and final payment. If you must move in, list all defects on the PCI form, agree a rectification timeframe, and withhold a sufficient amount from the final payment to cover the cost of rectification. Once you've paid and moved in, the builder has less incentive to fix issues promptly.

What's a practical completion inspection (PCI)?

The PCI is the final inspection conducted by you and the builder's representative when the home is considered complete. Its purpose is to identify any defects or incomplete work before handover. You document all defects on a PCI form, and the builder should rectify them before you make the final payment and accept handover. See our Pre-Handover Inspection Guide for details.

Inspections, Defects & Handover — Guide for Australian Home Buyers

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Inspections, Defects & Handover

Your complete learning centre for inspections, defects and handover. Understand the inspection process, identify common defects, know your warranty rights and ensure your home is built to standard.

8 guides 3 categories Independent & builder-neutral

Inspections, defect identification and warranty claims are your safety net during and after construction. Understanding the inspection process, what defects to look for, your warranty rights and how to raise and resolve issues ensures your home is built to standard and any problems are rectified. This learning centre brings together independent, builder-neutral guides on inspections, defects and handover.

Featured Guides

Start here — the most important reads in this learning centre

Inspections

3 guides

Defects & Issues

2 guides

Common Defects in New Homes

The most common defects in new Australian homes and how to identify them.

6 min read

Dealing With Defects

How to raise defects, builder obligations and dispute resolution.

5 min read

Warranties & Rights

3 guides

Helpful Checklists

Practical Completion Checklist

Comprehensive PCI inspection checklist.

Pre-Contract Checklist

Confirm warranty and inspection terms before signing.

All Checklists

Browse every checklist on Compare My Build.

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Building Process & Construction Stages Contracts, Finance & Costs Defects & Inspections Hub Building Guides Checklists Product Guides Hidden Costs Hub Building Tips

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Inspections, Defects & Handover

Featured Guides

Inspections & Defects Overview

Pre-Handover Inspection Guide

Common Defects in New Homes

Inspections

Inspections & Defects Overview

Pre-Handover Inspection Guide

Frame Stage Inspection Guide

Defects & Issues

Common Defects in New Homes

Dealing With Defects

Warranties & Rights

Defect Liability Period Explained

Warranty Claims Guide

Final Handover Checklist Guide

Most Popular

Helpful Checklists

Practical Completion Checklist

Pre-Contract Checklist

All Checklists

Frequently Asked Questions

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