Pre-Handover Inspections for New Homes in Melbourne
Catch Defects Before You Take the Keys
Even brand-new homes can come with costly defects. At NextGen Inspections, we specialise in final-stage building inspections across Melbourne – while your builder is still on the hook.
We uncover hidden issues, check for compliance, and make sure your new home is finished to the standard you paid for.
Service Summary
- Independent pre-handover inspections Melbourne-wide
- Focused on new builds and construction stage inspections
- Fast and accurate reporting
- Based on AS 4349.1 & NCC compliance
- Conducted by a Registered Building Practitioner
- Servicing Melbourne and surrounding suburbs
Areas We Service
We inspect properties across Melbourne and surrounding regions, including:
- Northern Suburbs
- South Eastern Suburbs
- Eastern Suburbs
- Western Suburbs
- Bayside
Why You Need a Pre-Handover Inspection
Construction might be finished, but that doesn’t mean everything’s up to scratch. A new home inspection gives you leverage to address issues while your builder is still contractually responsible.
- Catch Defects Early Identify incomplete work, non-compliant elements, or safety risks before you move in.
- Hold Your Builder Accountable Ensure everything meets your contract, the building plans, and regulatory standards.
- Get Clarity Before Settlement Avoid moving in only to find hidden defects that lead to disputes, delays, or extra costs.
- Peace of Mind, Professionally Delivered Your report includes photos, plain-English explanations, and clear action points – all within 24 hours.
Construction-Specific Checklist: What We Inspect
Our new home building inspections include over 500 potential defect points, focused specifically on issues that arise at the final stage of construction.Key inspection items include:
- Slab, footings & foundation integrity
- Framing, trusses & roof structure
- Doors, windows & internal fixings
- Waterproofing in wet areas
- Plaster, paint & surface finish quality
- Carpentry, tiling & flooring
- External cladding, drainage & grading
- Compliance with construction plans & NCC
Common Defects We Find in New Builds
| Defect Type | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Poor Finishes | Visible damage, uneven surfaces, and rushed workmanship affect liveability and resale. |
| Structural Defects | Issues with slab or framing can impact long-term safety. |
| Non-Compliance | Builds not matching plans or NCC standards can delay settlement or cause future legal disputes. |
| Incomplete Work | Fixtures, fittings, and finishes often left unfinished in rushed builds. |
| Waterproofing Failures | Early leaks often go unnoticed until serious damage occurs. |
What Happens If You Skip Your New Home Inspection?
We’ve seen it too often– clients moving in without a final inspection, only to discover:
- Non-compliant waterproofing leading to mould and water damage
- Misaligned cabinetry and scratched flooring left unrepaired
- Doors and windows that stick or rattle due to rushed installation
- Unfinished electrical or plumbing issues discovered after move-in
Our Pre-Handover Inspection Process
- Initial Consultation: We’ll review your plans, understand your concerns, and prep the inspection scope.
- On-Site Inspection: A detailed, in-person inspection of all accessible areas, focused on structure, compliance and workmanship.
- Fast, Clear Reporting: You’ll get your digital report with photos and fix recommendations within 24 hours.
- Post-Inspection Support: Have questions? We’re here to help you push back on defects and guide the next steps with your builder.
Why Choose NextGen Inspections?
- Registered Building Practitioner with 20+ years of experience
- Over 500 checks aligned to AS 4349.1 and NCC
- Clear, photo-documented reports in 24 hours
- Meticulous attention to new build-specific issues
- Trusted by home buyers across Melbourne
What Our Clients Say
Stage Inspections vs Final Pre-Handover: What’s the Difference?
Not all construction stage inspections are the same. Here’s where a pre-handover inspection fits into the process:
| Stage | Focus | When Conducted |
|---|---|---|
| Slab Inspection | Foundation integrity, steel placement | Before concrete pour |
| Frame Inspection | Framing, trusses, bracing | Before plastering |
| Pre-Plaster Inspection | Electrical, plumbing, insulation checks | Before walls close |
| Pre-Handover Inspection | Final quality, compliance, finishes | Before handover & settlement |
FAQs
What is a pre-handover inspection?
It’s a detailed, independent check of your new build before the final handover, ensuring it’s finished to spec and ready for you to move in.
Do I really need an inspection for a new home?
Yes. Many defects in new homes go unnoticed until it’s too late. An inspection gives you a chance to fix them before the builder is off the hook.
Should I get a pest inspection for a brand-new home?
While new builds are less likely to have established infestations, termites can still enter through slab penetrations or affect structural timbers if moisture is present. If your new home has timber elements exposed to the ground (like pergolas, landscaping timbers, or subfloor ventilation gaps), it may be worth bundling a timber pest inspection for peace of mind.Explore our timber pest inspection options
What areas do you cover?
We offer pre-handover inspections across Melbourne, Ballarat, Geelong, and the Mornington Peninsula.
How long does the inspection take?
Most on-site inspections take 1–2 hours. You’ll get your full report the same day or within 24 hours.
Don’t Let Defects Slip Through
Take control before you settle. Get a professional set of eyes on your new home — and move in with confidence.
