The Hidden Costs of Skipping a Handover Inspection on New Builds

Building a new home in Darwin? 

It’s easy to assume a brand-new home will be flawless, but the reality is often different. Many new builds hide defects that aren’t obvious at first glance — from uneven floors and poor waterproofing to electrical or plumbing problems that could cost thousands to fix later.

A professional handover inspection gives you peace of mind. By identifying these issues before you sign off, you can make sure your builder takes responsibility for correcting them. This protects your investment, saves you stress, and ensures your new home is truly ready for you to move in.

Common Problems in New Builds

• Incomplete finishes like tiling, painting, or sealing.

• Defective plumbing and electrical systems.

• Poor workmanship that doesn’t meet code.

• Missing cyclone safety requirements.

Why Handover Inspections Save You Money

Fixing building defects after you’ve moved in can quickly become expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. Once you’ve taken possession, the responsibility for repairs often shifts to you, leaving little leverage with the builder.

A professional handover inspection ensures that defects are identified before you make your final payments. This way, you can require the builder to correct any issues as part of their contractual obligations. From minor cosmetic faults to major structural or safety concerns, an inspection provides the protection you need at a critical stage of the process.

By addressing problems early, you safeguard your investment, avoid stressful disputes, and step into your new home with confidence.

Darwin’s Building Environment

With high humidity, termites, and cyclone risks, even small defects can turn into big headaches fast.

A professional, independent handover inspection protects your investment and your family’s safety.