Handover/Practical Completion Inspection
At Elite Property Inspections, our Handover/ Practical Completion Inspection is one of the most critical steps in the building journey. This inspection takes place when your builder declares the home complete and ready for handover — but before you sign off and make the final payment.
While the home may appear finished on the surface, we know from experience that many hidden defects, incomplete works, and poor workmanship can easily go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Our role is to thoroughly assess your property and provide you with a clear, itemised defect report provided within 24 hours that outlines what needs to be corrected before handover.
What We Check:
Internal finishes: paintwork, ceilings, floors, walls, and joinery
Doors and windows: alignment, latching, operation, and seals
Fixtures and fittings: taps, toilets, cabinetry, appliances, lights, etc.
External finishes: render, brickwork, eaves, downpipes, drainage, etc.
Waterproofing signs: wet areas, tile falls, shower screens, floor wastes
Functional testing: switches, locks, fans, doors, and more
Our inspections provide a complete overview of the whole property, not just selected areas
To help you understand the depth of our inspections, we've prepared a sample checklist based on a standard home in Sydney. It highlights the extensive range of components we examine across the property.
The final report will include detailed descriptions and supporting photos of any issues found.
We inspect everything in line with:
The Building Code of Australia (BCA)
Relevant Australian Standards
Your contractual specifications and inclusions
Why This Inspection Matters
Once you take possession, your leverage over the builder reduces significantly. If issues are discovered after handover, you may face delays, disputes, or be forced to pay out-of-pocket for repairs that should have been the builder’s responsibility.
By identifying these problems upfront, you:
Save thousands in potential rectification costs
Avoid stressful disputes during the warranty period
Ensure the home is finished to a professional standard
Gain confidence in signing off on your build
Why Choose Elite Property Inspections?
With over 30 years of hands-on construction experience, we understand how homes are built — and where builders tend to cut corners. Our reports are detailed yet easy to read, complete with photos, explanations, and practical advice on what action to take next. Our defect closeout advisory service complements our handover and practical completion inspections by guiding you on the actions needed and the best approach to closing out identified defects. Click below for more information about this service.
We’ve helped countless Sydney homeowners flag defects early, hold builders accountable, and move into their homes with peace of mind — not regret.
Don’t risk being handed a home full of hidden issues. Book your Handover Inspection today and make sure you only pay for a job done right.
This example outlines the types of items we typically assess during a general inspection of a standard home in Sydney. Every inspection we conduct is tailored to the specific property, but this gives you a sense of the level of detail and care we provide.
Bedrooms (All)
Check all internal doors for correct alignment, latching, and clearance
Inspect door hardware (hinges, latch, striker plate) for secure installation
Review architraves and skirting for consistent finish, tight joints, and damage
Assess paintwork for blemishes, chips, or incomplete coverage
Test windows for smooth operation, secure locking, and frame condition
Examine flooring (carpet or timber) for correct installation and damage
Check built-in robes for functionality, level shelves, and rail installation
Inspect light fittings and switches for safe operation and alignment
Confirm electrical outlets are secure and properly finished
Inspect ceiling cornices and wall junctions for straight lines and cracking
Bathrooms & Ensuites
Test all taps, spouts, and mixers for leaks and pressure
Confirm vanities, mirrors, and cabinetry are installed securely and level
Check waterproofing signs around showers, baths, and tile joints
Examine floor and wall tiles for chips, lippage, grout defects, or uneven finish
Confirm toilets are secured, sealed, and flushing properly
Test exhaust fans, lighting, and power points
Inspect glass shower screens for chips and proper sealing
Assess silicone application and tiling junctions for neat finish and coverage
Kitchen
Inspect cabinetry for alignment, installation quality, and hardware fit-off
Check benchtops for damage, gaps, or poorly sealed joins
Confirm splashbacks are well-fitted, sealed, and free from cracks
Test kitchen appliances (if installed) for fitting and condition
Inspect plumbing under sink for leaks and waste connections
Confirm tiling or flooring is complete and installed neatly
Check window operation, lighting, switches, and power points
Living, Dining & Hallways
Inspect floor finishes for scratches, levelness, and clean installation
Confirm paint quality across walls, ceilings, and trims
Check internal doors and frames for uniform gaps and operation
Ensure all electrical fittings (lights, fans, switches) function properly
Examine skirting boards and cornices for straightness and finish
Test windows and sliding doors for operation, security, and sealing
Garage
Test garage door (manual or automatic) for full range of movement and safety stops
Inspect internal access door (if applicable) for fire rating compliance
Check floor for excessive cracks or spalling
Inspect lighting, switches, and power points
Review wall and ceiling finishes for paint coverage and damage
Laundry
Check tapware and trough for leaks and sealing
Confirm exhaust fans and lighting work correctly
Inspect floor tiles and wall finishes for quality and water resistance
Assess cabinetry (if installed) and space for appliances
External
Inspect external cladding or brickwork for damage, cracks, or incomplete work
Check fascia, eaves, gutters, and downpipes for alignment and fixing
Assess roof (visually from ground) for defects, missing elements, or debris
Confirm drainage around property and visible stormwater connections
Inspect fencing, side gates, and letterbox for correct installation
Check driveways, paths, and steps for cracking or trip hazards
Note presence and condition of hot water system, external taps, and vents
This list is just a sample and does not include every item we review. Our full inspection reports include photos and clear descriptions of issues raised giving you full confidence in your next steps.
