Defects Liability Inspection in Perth for Builders and New Owners

Across Perth, we see many new homes reaching the finishing line over summer. With the heat drying out slabs and builders tying up their final jobs, this is when a lot of owners get ready to move in. But just because the keys are handed over does not mean the building process is completely done.

Getting a defects liability inspection in Perth during this period helps spot any work that did not hold up or was missed before handover. These inspections are not just for checking boxes. They catch faults while builders are still responsible, and give both parties peace of mind that problems will not linger. This timing is important, especially before the cooler season starts and outdoor repairs become harder to finish quickly.

What a Defects Liability Inspection Actually Covers

Not every mark or small issue in a new build is a defect. Some are cosmetic or expected, but others point to building work that did not meet the standard or has already started to give way.

We focus on issues that affect the structure, safety, or use of the home. Typical areas we check include:

• Doors that do not close properly or scrape when opened
• Windows that do not lock or seal
• Paint finishes that have drips, bubbles, or patchy coverage
• Surface cracks in walls or ceilings that suggest movement
• Water leaks or signs of moisture, especially around bathrooms or laundries

We also test internal systems like exhaust fans, toilets, taps, drainage, and switches. Loose fittings or half-working power points show up often after a rushed finish, and should be raised while repairs are still covered. Some issues are not easy to see without a proper check, but they make a big difference down the track.

Why Timing Matters: Post-Summer Checks and Warranty Deadlines

In Perth, January is often when builders rush to hand properties over before things slow down for autumn. It is also when we favour doing these inspections, with the last stretch of dry heat helping us get around rooflines, balconies, and eaves without delay.

Long daylight hours also help surface damage stand out more clearly. Paint colours weathering, warped elements, or cracked junctions are easier to see in natural light. That is why it is best to walk through with a checklist before the weather changes. Fixes that are booked now usually happen faster, since trades are more readily available. Waiting too long could push small defects into long delays as rain and weather access start to become an issue.

Responsibilities for Builders and New Owners

The responsibility to fix valid defects still sits with the builder during the defects liability period. This contractual window usually runs for several months after handover, with a statutory 6-year warranty behind that, and is there to catch items that were rushed or failed under normal use. But builders often will not know what has gone wrong unless it is reported.

That is where owners come in. We recommend:

• Keeping detailed notes on any issues spotted early
• Taking clear photos with captions showing their location
• Reporting items in a written list so they are on record at least a week before the expiration of the contractual defects liability period.

A tidy list helps everyone stay focused. Builders know what is expected, and you can track what has been fixed and what still needs attention. Without this step, there is a real risk of an issue slipping past the warranty window, turning a small job into a major fix later on. Plus, once the item has been rectified, there is a six year warranty on that repair.

Common Findings in Summer Handovers Across Perth

We see a few things come up more often this time of year, especially in homes that have just finished during the warmer months.

• Door frames or window trims that shift slightly as framed walls dry, causing misalignment
• Skirting boards swelling or pulling away if moisture was trapped then dried out fast
• Paint patches left thin or missed altogether in strong sun or under eaves
• Air conditioning issues not spotted until systems are run constantly in the heat

These might seem like small problems, but left unfixed, they tend to reveal bigger wear or plan errors. Catching them during the inspection means they are dealt with early under the builder’s duty, not down the line at your cost.

How a Professional Inspection Helps Protect Long-Term Value

There is a big difference between living in a house for a few weeks and standing back to check it thoroughly. A professional inspection sees past the surface to catch things you might not think to test.

We bring a different eye to the build because we’ve seen a thousand houses of that type of construction before. Independent inspections can help clarify what is covered and save time if you need to go back to the builder with concerns. Not every mark is serious, but some seemingly minor ones are early signs of workmanship issues.

By verifying the condition of the home before the warranty ends, you are better set for the years ahead. You will know what was resolved at handover and what areas might need watching as the property ages. That kind of insight is useful, even long after the builder’s work is done.

Peace of Mind Before the Real Living Begins

A defects liability inspection in Perth is not just ticking off a formality. It sets both builders and new owners on a smoother path by spotting what slipped through before the work gets forgotten.

With ABBC Building Inspectors, every defects liability inspection is completed by a registered builder inspector who checks major structural and minor finish items as outlined on our service pages. Our independent approach helps Perth owners and builders resolve warranty items efficiently, with clear photo evidence and reporting provided in each inspection.

A smooth handover starts with everything working as it should and nothing left uncertain. By arranging a thorough check, you give yourself the best chance to catch any issues while there is still time to resolve them. A defects liability inspection in Perth keeps the process on track, ensuring trades return while repairs are still their responsibility. At ABBC Building Inspectors, we carefully review each part of your home so you can move forward with confidence. Give us a call to book a time that suits you.