adminWhat Is a PCI Report?
A PCI report, also known as a Practical Completion Inspection, is a detailed building inspection conducted before the final handover of your new home. It outlines any defects, incomplete work, or quality issues that should be addressed by your builder before you accept the keys.
At Build Check Inspections, we provide PCI inspections across Melbourne to help new homeowners take possession of their property with confidence and clarity.
Why Use a PCI Report to Resolve Defects
Your PCI inspection in Melbourne is your last chance to catch visible defects before making the final payment. Builders are obligated to fix any identified issues listed in the report but only if you raise them in time.
A professionally prepared Practical Completion Inspection Melbourne report helps you:
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Avoid handover disputes or delays
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Prevent future repair costs
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Ensure the property meets your contract and expectations
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Support your position if follow-ups are required
Step-by-Step: How to Use Your PCI Report Effectively
1. Share the Report Immediately
Once your PCI inspection report is complete, send it to your site supervisor or builder with a formal request for each issue to be addressed. Include photos and specific details, especially for items that could be missed or hidden after handover.
2. Clarify Defects and Deadlines
Use the report to separate major vs minor defects. Be clear about what needs urgent repair. Builders in Melbourne typically expect this within the timeframe outlined in your contract or the Victorian Domestic Building Contracts Act.
3. Refer to Your Building Contract
Your building contract outlines the process for practical completion. Use it alongside your PCI report to ensure you’re within your rights when requesting fixes or holding off final payment.
4. Follow Up in Writing
If issues remain unresolved, follow up in writing. Your PCI report serves as evidence, which gives you leverage to escalate or negotiate if needed.
5. Schedule a Reinspection
Once the builder claims the items have been fixed, ask for a reinspection from your Melbourne building inspector. This ensures repairs have been completed to a satisfactory standard before you sign off.
What Does a Melbourne PCI Inspection Include?
Your builder handover inspection Melbourne report typically checks:
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Fixtures and fittings
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Paintwork, flooring, and cabinetry
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Doors, windows, and locks
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Bathrooms and wet areas
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Lighting and power points
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Finishes and workmanship
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External walls, roofing, and drainage
Everything must be completed according to the plans, specifications, and relevant codes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re building a new home in Melbourne, a Practical Completion Inspection is your last line of defence before handover. Use your PCI report to:
- Clearly communicate defects
- Back up your claims with photos
- Request prompt action
- Protect your investment
With a qualified inspector from Build Check Inspections Melbourne, you get more than a report, you get expert guidance, honest feedback, and peace of mind at a crucial stage of your build.
