Handovers Brisbane: What you need to know

Moving into a newly built home is exciting, but you need to complete the handover first. For the best handovers Brisbane, you will need an experienced inspector from a reputable company.

In this blog we will examine what the handover process is, the specifics of Brisbane handovers and what a handover inspection involves.

What is a handover?

Handover, also called new build handover or practical completion inspection is the final step in the building process.

After the home is constructed and all the building work is done, it will be assessed to determine if it is suitable for habitation.

‘Suitable for habitation’ means that it has all the functions of a normal house. This includes power, water, and weatherproofing.

The house can still have minor outstanding issues such as incomplete aesthetic elements like the paint job.

However, no major defects can be present.

Handover is also the point where you make the final payment.

The handover must be complete before you are given the keys

Prior to handover

Generally, your builder will give you 2- or 3-weeks’ notice before they expect handover to be completed.

In that time, you should book a handover inspection.

Handover inspection Brisbane

A handover inspection involves a building inspector going through the property and listing aspects that are not up to standard.

These inspections are only carried out once the property has finished construction.

Such aspects include internal and walls, window frames, ceilings, doors, fences, and other such building elements.

These various elements are assessed against the Building Code of Australia.

Once the inspection is completed, you will be provided with a detailed report that lists any defects.

These defects are categorized as either minor or major and are highlighted with photographs.

This report is given to you as well as your builder for rectification.

After your new build handover inspection

Once your report has been provided, it is up to the builder and relevant sub-contractors to fix these issues.

If necessary, you may wish to conduct a follow up inspection to make sure all issues have been fixed. You will be given another report after the follow up inspection.

Once all the issues are resolved, you will then make the final payment.

Handovers Brisbane

Handovers in Brisbane are regulated by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). They license and oversee builders in Queensland and the work they do.

If you have a dispute with your builder that cannot be resolved between the two of you, you should contact the QBCC.

These disputes generally arise over work the builder has done that you believe is defective.

The QBCC will help you and the builder come to an agreement. They may visit the new building to inspect the work.

The QBCC will determine if the work done was defective, who was at fault and what action is required.

If either party wants to dispute the findings of the QBCC, they can apply for a hearing with the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).

Once the handover is complete, you will pay and complete the transaction

On the day of the handover

On the handover you should ensure you have copies of relevant documents.

These documents include the practical completion certificate, certificates of inspection and product warranties for appliances.

You should also make sure to get any documentations issued by service providers like water, electricity, and gas companies.