New Build Inspector Balmain

What our reports identify

A new build inspector in Balmain, NSW, typically examines various aspects of a newly constructed property to ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and industry standards. While the specific requirements may vary, here are some common areas that a new build inspector would typically focus on in Balmain:

1. Structural Integrity:
   • Examination of the foundation, walls, and roof structure for stability, proper construction techniques, and adherence to engineering specifications.
   • Inspection of load-bearing elements, including beams, columns, and lintels.
   • Verification of compliance with relevant structural codes and standards.
2. Building Envelope:
   • Assessment of the exterior walls, cladding, and roofing for weatherproofing, insulation, and durability.
   • Verification of proper installation of windows, doors, and seals to ensure energy efficiency and protection against moisture and drafts.
   • Inspection of any balconies, decks, or verandas for structural integrity, guardrail height, and compliance with safety standards.
3. Electrical Systems:
   • Evaluation of the electrical wiring, fixtures, and outlets to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and regulations.
   • Inspection of the distribution board and circuitry for proper installation and labeling.
   • Testing of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Plumbing and Water Supply:
   • Verification of the plumbing system, including water supply lines, drainage, and waste disposal.
   • Examination of fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers for proper installation, functionality, and compliance with plumbing codes.
   • Testing of water pressure, identifying leaks, and checking the functionality of shut-off valves.
5. Fire Safety Measures:
   • Assessment of fire safety features, such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire-rated materials.
   • Inspection of fire exits, staircases, and emergency lighting for compliance with building codes and safety standards.
   • Verification of the presence and functionality of fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems, if applicable.
6. Accessibility and Safety:
   • Evaluation of accessibility features, including ramps, handrails, and door widths, to ensure compliance with disability access regulations.
   • Inspection of staircases, balustrades, and guardrails for safety and compliance with relevant standards.
   • Assessment of overall safety measures, such as proper lighting, slip-resistant surfaces, and adequate ventilation.
7. Energy Efficiency:
   • Verification of insulation installation to ensure energy efficiency and compliance with thermal regulations.
   • Examination of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for proper installation and compliance with energy efficiency standards.
   • Review of energy-efficient lighting and the presence of energy-saving features such as solar panels or rainwater harvesting systems, if applicable.
8. Documentation and Certification:
   • Review of construction documentation, including building plans, permits, and certificates of compliance.
   • Verification of compliance with relevant local council requirements and building regulations.
   • Preparation of an inspection report detailing the findings, including any non-compliance issues and recommended corrective actions.

What is a new build staged construction?

New build Balmain staged construction inspections involve a series of building inspections throughout the construction of your new Balmain home. From when your property is only a slab of concrete to the handover of the keys to your brand-new home, new-build multi-stage inspections ensure that the construction process is of high quality and compliant with building codes and other safety standards every step of the way. Building a house (or any kind of building) from the ground up is long and often arduous. So, having checkpoints along the way to ensure everything is going smoothly will help identify mistakes and prevent future issues. 

Unlike building surveyor inspections, new build staged construction inspections are third-party evaluations that offer you a second pair of expert eyes on your new build. Generally, building companies (especially project home Builders) have many jobs at once, and the supervisors are looking after ten or so homes which are impossible to do! This is where issues arise, and trades get away with poor workmanship. Having third-party inspections ensures your project is a quality build throughout, and many years later, you’re not having major issues with your new home.

We are a small business that cares about quality and attention to detail, and we’re ready to earn your trust as your new building inspector specialising in the Balmain area. 

Construction Development Approval in Balmain

Construction development approvals in Balmain, NSW are governed by local planning authorities, such as the Balmain-Rozelle Precinct Advisory Committee and Inner West Council. The approval process ensures that proposed construction projects comply with zoning regulations, building codes, and community development objectives. Here’s a general overview of the construction development approval process in Balmain:

1. Development Application (DA) Submission:

   • Property owners or developers submit a Development Application (DA) to the Balmain-Rozelle Precinct Advisory Committee or Inner West Council.
   • The DA includes detailed plans, architectural drawings, environmental impact assessments, and other required documents.

2. Initial Assessment:

   • Upon receipt of the DA, the local planning authority reviews the application to ensure it meets all submission requirements.
   • The application is checked for compliance with zoning regulations, height restrictions, setbacks, and other planning controls.

3. Public Notification and Consultation:

   • If the proposed development has a significant impact on the local community, nearby residents and stakeholders are notified about the application.
   • A public exhibition period allows for community feedback and objections to be considered.

4. Assessment and Evaluation:

   • The planning authority conducts a thorough assessment of the DA, considering factors such as environmental impact, traffic, infrastructure, and heritage preservation.
   • Relevant departments and external agencies may provide comments and recommendations during this stage.

5. Assessment Outcome:

   • Based on the evaluation, the local planning authority will issue a determination for the DA, which can include approval, approval with conditions, or refusal.
   • Approval may be subject to certain conditions, such as compliance with specific design elements or contributions to community infrastructure.

6. Construction Certificate:

   • If the DA is approved, the developer or property owner must obtain a Construction Certificate (CC) before commencing construction.
   • The CC verifies that the detailed construction plans and documentation comply with building codes, standards, and other regulations.

7. Construction Phase:

   • Once the CC is obtained, construction can begin under the supervision of relevant building authorities.
   • Regular inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with approved plans, safety standards, and environmental regulations.

Stages of New Balmain Builds

New build staged construction inspections are broken down into checkpoints. However, there’s no industry standard for how many stages there are, and it depends on the build itself. We’ll review the six most common stages in a new build staged construction inspection and what each stage entails. 

Pre-Slab Inspection

A Pre-Slab inspection is exactly as it sounds. An inspection before pouring the concrete slab into your home. We check all aspects of the formwork, reinforcement and dimensions to ensure it complies with the architectural plans. 

Slab inspections include

• Checking for moisture membranes 
• Placement of the steel
• Barrier provisions for termite protection
• Dimensions and ensuring they are within tolerances
• Checking that the installation is correct and according to plan

Framing Inspection

Frame inspection is completed once the complete framing is erected. Walls, roof trusses or conventional roofing, including all bracing. This is a very important stage as the frame is the main structure of the building, and a poor-quality installation could have serious defects down the line.

Framing inspection includes

• Similar to Pre-Slab, we check all dimensions to ensure they are correct as per the plans.
• Checking framing members for plumb, square and straight walls.
• Check tie-downs and bracing are as per engineer details
• Check the dimensions and locations of doors and windows
• Check Physical Termite barrier has been installed as per the code
• We also give the completed slab a once-over to ensure no major shrinkage cracks.

Pre-lining Inspection

Other firms do not always do this inspection. Still, we think it’s very important as once the plasterboard is installed, we can see behind the walls and are not sure if any trades have cut corners or have done shotty workmanship. In the past, we have seen plumbers cut studs to run the plumbing and electricians do similar questionable work.

Pre-Lining inspection includes

• Checking the plumbing services are installed correctly and in all correct locations
• Ensuring sufficient blocking to plumbing pipes etc
• Ensuring sufficient blocking has been installed for cabinetry, toilet accessories, shelving, wall-mounted TVs etc 
• Check that previous recommendations made to the frame has been implemented.
• Check brick ties have been installed correctly
• Check Roof coverings and Brickwork for defects

Lock-Up/Waterproofing

Lock-up stage is as it sounds. The building is at the point where all Linings, windows, doors, gutters, and garage doors are complete. It’s getting very close to the final stages. At this stage, acceptable finishes are very important to ensure a quality job is handed over to you. We must inspect this stage before any tiling as we want to check waterproofing compliance with AS3740-2010.

At this stage, we check

• Plasterboard finishes
• Sufficient fixings to plasterboard and cabinetry
• Quality check of all carpentry, ie doors, jambs, skirtings, architraves
• Waterproofing check 

PCI-Practical Completion Inspection

Practical completion is, as the name suggests, this inspection is completed just before handover so you can rectify defects before you receive the keys to your new home, ready to move in. It’s always best to have the builder do the initial cleaning before our inspection. For clients who only have this stage of the inspection completed and none of the previous stages, the defects will likely be more cosmetic as now many are hidden behind wall linings and not visible to the inspector.

The other potential issue is sometimes major defects can be found at this final stage which can cause a lot of stress for both the builder and client as rectification could be timely and costly at this stage of the project. Compared to clients who have had regular inspections, the defects are found sooner and rectified as the project carries on.

Practical completion we check:

• All finishes to both interior and exterior, wall linings, brickwork
• Paint finish and coverage
• Plumbing working as they should
• Floor coverings for defects
• Expansion joints and silicon as required
• Check benchtops and cabinetry for scratches
• Check electrical and appliances to ensure everything is operational.
• Check Site drainage has been completed as per plans
• Check to landscape
• Check driveways
• Ensure locks and doors work as they should

Not sure what a new build stage inspection will look like for a new home in your area? Contact us today for more information!

End of Defect Liability Inspection

This inspection is usually completed after 90 days. It will allow you to address the builder with issues that you would like rectified or perhaps certain things have deteriorated since the handover. For example, carpet joins showing through, tap leaks, and cracked tiles. We will check all items as per practical completion, and of course, you will be able to provide insight into areas you have concerns with which we can thoroughly investigate.

We like to pay extra attention to the moisture readings in bathrooms as they should not read at high levels being a newly built home. High-level moisture readings could identify waterproofing failure or plumbing issues within the walls. Ensuring the site drainage is working well, and the property surrounds are draining well. No cracks in internal and external walls 

Popular new build projects in Balmain

1. Residential Apartment Complexes: Balmain has seen the development of modern apartment complexes offering contemporary living spaces and often including amenities such as gyms, rooftop terraces, and communal areas.
2. Townhouse Developments: There has been an increase in the construction of townhouse developments in Balmain, providing an alternative to apartment living and appealing to families or those seeking a more spacious lifestyle.
3. Mixed-Use Developments: Balmain has seen the emergence of mixed-use developments that combine residential units with commercial or retail spaces, creating a vibrant and convenient urban environment.
4. Renovations and Heritage Restorations: Balmain is known for its heritage-listed buildings and charming architecture. Renovation and restoration projects that preserve the historical character of the area while updating the interiors have been popular.
5. Waterfront and Waterside Developments: Balmain’s waterfront location along the Sydney Harbour has attracted development projects that take advantage of the stunning views and access to the water. These projects often include luxury residential apartments or townhouses.

Why are new build staged construction inspections important?

Building a new home in Balmain requires time, money and dedication. You’ll be putting a lot of effort into your new property, and at the very least, you’ll want to ensure that everything is of high quality, safe and functional when you can finally move in.

Here are a few reasons why new build multi-stage inspections are important.

• Catch issues before it’s too late, and major work is required to rectify them (even then, they are never as good as if it was done the first time correctly)
• Ensure safety and functionality 
• Third-party insight vs building surveyor inspections (Many building certifiers are in the Builders Pocket)
• Peace of mind
• Ensure you get what you pay for from the builder
• Quality control
• Prevent future deterioration of your home from poor construction methods and quality

Using a multi-stage approach, you can catch any issues that might arise during the building process before it’s too late or extremely costly and time-consuming to rectify. When you can fix any mistakes before adding layers to them, it’s much simpler and more cost-effective.

Another thing to note is that the building surveyor inspections that certify new builds could sometimes not be as thorough or diligent due to the building company using the business regularly.

How much does a new build stage inspection cost?

The cost of a new build multi-stage inspection will vary. Each quote depends on the following:

• How many stages of the inspection would you like inspected
• The building size

When it comes to a new build staged construction inspection, you’ll usually get what you pay for. While you can often find competitive rates among inspectors, it’s important to understand that your cheapest option isn’t always ideal. Especially when building your new home, you’ll be pouring a lot of money into construction costs. After patiently waiting for months or even years for the final result, the last thing you want is unexpected expenses. 

So, think of a new build staged construction inspection as an investment in the safety and quality of your new home.

New Build Staged Construction Inspection | Balmain

Clear View property inspections offer new build staged constructions inspections and many other kinds of building inspections. We do things a little differently than others in the industry. We are a small business we’re a one-person show – and by foregoing the need to grow fast or scale our business exponentially, we’d much rather provide high-quality building inspections with premium customer service and strong attention to detail. After all, you want an inspector you can trust when building your new home. Choose Clear View and book your New Balmain Build Multi-Stage Inspection today! Call now.

Common issues in Balmain

1. Compliance and Regulatory Issues: Construction projects must adhere to building codes, regulations, and local planning requirements. Issues can arise if builders fail to meet these standards, leading to potential delays, legal complications, or the need for remedial work.
2. Quality Control and Workmanship: Homeowners may encounter issues with the quality of workmanship or materials used in construction or renovation projects. This can include problems such as poor finishing, faulty installations, or substandard construction practices.
3. Construction Delays: Construction projects can face delays due to various factors, including unforeseen site conditions, inclement weather, or inadequate project management. Delays can impact homeowners who may have planned to move in or commence operations at a specific time.
4. Communication and Customer Service: Effective communication between builders and homeowners is essential for a successful construction project. Issues can arise when there is a lack of clear and timely communication, unaddressed concerns, or inadequate customer service throughout the building process.
5. Contractual Disputes: Disagreements over contract terms, payments, or scope of work can lead to contractual disputes between homeowners and builders. These disputes may require legal intervention to resolve.
6. Warranty and Defects: After construction is completed, homeowners may encounter defects or issues covered by warranties. Resolving these issues may involve communication with the builder, potential repairs or replacements, or legal recourse if necessary.

Suburb of Balmain

Historic, pretty, and full of character – Balmain is unique amongst Sydney suburbs. Balmain is a beautiful piece of land with sandstone brick buildings dating back to the origins of Sydney. It has a lot of character with pockets of greenery and is filled with cafes, restaurants, pubs and quality places to eat with stunning waterfront views. Balmain is frustrating in that it’s simultaneously one of the most gorgeous and one of the most limited suburbs in Sydney – on the one hand, it’s a place every visitor or resident of Sydney should visit at least once, while on the other, its high barrier to entry for those who would like to call it home means only a select few (or those willing to live in an older shoebox) will get to experience it at its best.

The suburb is hilly and bordered by water, with some truly great views on offer from multiple vantage points, and its terrace-lined streets are a pleasure to walk down. This is some of “old Sydney” at its best, with the designs of many of these buildings still holding up well today and each different facade giving you something interesting to look at – whether it be bright wall-climbing vines draped in colourful flowers or imaginative little front gardens that do a lot with relatively little space. Its first highlight for most visitors will be its main thoroughfare of Darling Street, which is packed with all manner of boutique stores and eateries that are almost universally charming; if you’re the type that likes to sample a new cafe each week, or make friends with your local baker or butcher like the days of old, then this street delivers and then some.

It also boasts one of the highest quantities of pubs of any suburb in the country, with several of them – highlighted by the Balmain Hotel and East Village Hotel – contained within older colonial-style buildings which give off a great atmosphere. As with a number of the other appealing and affluent water-adjacent suburbs in Sydney, it’s going to be the combination of price and a lack of living space that will keep many away. There are very few standalone houses in Balmain due to its fairly steep roads and a need for overall surface area for construction. As a result, terrace living is the default here, and the area’s desirability means these properties fetch a pretty penny on the market on the rare occasions they become available.