Construction Finance
What Inspections Are Required During Construction?
5 min read- Finance Guide
- Updated 2026
Quick answer
Common inspection stages
3+ 6
depending on state, builder and lender process
- Mandatory checks Slab, frame, final
- Lender inspections Before some drawdowns
- Final document Occupancy or completion record
1300 421 044
1300 421 044
Detailed explanation
During a residential build, inspections do more than tick a compliance box. They help confirm structural stages are complete, identify problems before the next trade starts, and give the lender confidence that the project is progressing in line with the approved contract and plans. The inspection pathway usually includes statutory inspections required under the building approval, plus extra inspections requested by the lender or the owner.
Typical inspection structure
Common checkpoints through the build
- 01Footings or slab stage
- 02Frame stage
- 03Enclosed or lock up stage
- 04Waterproofing in some jurisdictions
- 05Practical completion review
- 06Final or occupancy stage
At each stage:
Certifier or inspector reviews completed work- Defects or incomplete work may be identified
- Lender may verify stage completion before drawdown
- Project moves to the next stage only after sign off or rectification
What inspections usually cover
Inspection focus often includes:
-
compliance with approved plans and permit documents
-
structural stage completion such as slab and frame
-
weatherproofing and enclosure where relevant
-
final completion against contract scope and specifications
-
documents needed for occupancy, completion and final loan release
Inspection intensity
-
Minimum compliance path
Core stages only
-
Typical financed build
Certifier plus lender checks
-
More protected approach
Independent stage inspections too
How inspection sign off usually works
Inspectors and lenders review
approved plans and permit conditions- stage completion such as slab, frame and final
- whether work matches the original scope and specifications
- whether defects or incomplete items need rectification
- documents such as occupancy or completion certificates where required
- builder invoices linked to the claimed progress stage
- final suitability for the last drawdown and loan conversion
Typical inspection timing
-
Slab or footing inspection
Before concrete or after stage completion
-
Frame inspection
Before lining and concealment
-
Lender draw inspection
Before selected progress payments
-
Final inspection
Before final payment and occupancy
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Common problems
Construction inspections can cause delays, extra cost or drawdown issues when the build stage is not ready, documents are missing or defects are identified before sign off.
Stage not ready for inspection
The builder requests sign off too early, but the work is incomplete or does not match the claimed stage.
Possible solutions include:
reschedule the inspection once works are complete- check stage definitions in the building contract
- confirm invoice amount matches completed work
- avoid lodging the draw request too early
Defects or compliance issues found
An inspector identifies defects, missing work or non compliant items that need correction before the project can move forward.
Possible solutions include:
- rectify the defect before the next stage starts
- keep written records of defects and rectification dates
- use an independent inspection if disputes arise
- coordinate builder and certifier communication early
Final payment held up
The final draw can be delayed if the lender wants a satisfactory final inspection or if occupancy documentation has not been issued yet.
Possible solutions include:
- book the final inspection early
- confirm final documents needed in your state
- make sure insurance requirements are updated
- check the lender's final draw checklist before completion
Steps to get Finance
Step
01
Confirm the mandatory inspection stages under the building approval.
Step
02
Make sure the builder understands when each inspection must occur.
Step
03
Complete each build stage before requesting certifier or lender inspection.
Step
04
Rectify any defects or incomplete items identified during inspection.
Step
05
Provide invoices and any required reports for lender drawdown approval.
Step
06
Complete final inspection and obtain occupancy or completion sign off.
Speak with a Property Finance Specialist
Inspection requirements can change depending on the state, the building approval, the lender and the type of construction contract involved.
A specialist can help you understand how certifier inspections, lender progress checks and final completion requirements fit into your finance timeline.
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