Once you have nominated your house design, floor plans, builder and received your building permit, it’s time to watch your home start building. This is a very exciting time, but it can be a nervous one if you are not aware of the build process.
In this article we take the opportunity to highlight the different construction stages to minimise your nerves and help you enjoy this special experience.
There are generally eight (8) construction stages in the build process. Here is a summary of the construction stages in sequential order:
Stage 1: Site Works
Site works vary depending on the block of land you have purchased. The flatter the site the lower the cost and time needed to complete this stage of the build process. If the block of land is off-the-plan in a new land estate, this will generally result in cheaper site costs too. Buying a sloping sub divided lot will create much higher site costs and lengthy delays to starting the build.
Once the land settles and the build permits approved the site works can begin. This stage may involve multiple works such as demolishing an existing home, building retaining walls or simply flattening the surface to prepare it for construction.
Stage 2: Slab Down
Before the slab is poured all plumbing works are prepared. The slab down stage is when the concrete slab gets poured on the block, which makes for the foundation of the home.
Stage 3: Plate High
In this stage the brick walls are constructed. Multiple tradesman such as electricians, plumbers and engineers install essential wiring, power pipes, water and gas to the property.
Stage 4: Roof Installation
This is when the roof is installed. Once the roof and gutters are completed, the home starts to show its shape. Most homes select either Colorbond or roof tiles.
Stage 5: Lockup
Lock-up stage is when all the doors and windows can be locked. Once the home is secured, multiple tradesman including plumbers, electricians, tilers and carpenters can complete their services.
Stage 6: Fixtures and Fittings
The fixture and fittings are now installed to the home. These include kitchens, laundries and bathroom benchtops and cabinets. The flooring (generally timber or tiles), tapware, mirrors, basins, bathtubs and shower screens are all installed.
Stage 7: Practical Completion
This is the fixing stage where the builder finishes off any incidentals to ensure the home is ready for you to inspect prior to stage 8 – handover. The builder will be completing internal painting, lighting and installing air-conditioners, kitchen appliances etc.
The building supervisor will walk you through your property to demonstrate the workmanship and complete a defect report to identify if anything requires further attention.
At Crest Property Investments, we attend the inspection with you. It is important to us making sure the home you bought meets your expectations while remaining within your budget.
If there are some minor issues requiring attention, you can request the final works to be completed before handover. You will also get another property inspection with your building supervisor to make sure you are completely satisfied.
Stage 8: Handover
Now that the construction stages are complete the home is fully complete!
During this time the final invoice and occupancy permit will be issued. Once final payment is processed it’s time to receive your keys and take possession of your home.
Please note, many builders often complete the landscaping days before handover, so don’t be alarmed if it’s not finished when you complete your property inspection.
If you are looking to buy a house and land package, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help design and negotiate a deal that’s right for you. We do not charge buyers a fee to help you purchase a property.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more, please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
Jan 2020
